🍗🥒 Golden Baked Chicken & Zucchini Protein Poppers
🧾 Ingredients
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2 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped or shredded
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1 medium zucchini, grated & squeezed dry
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1 large egg
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½ cup cottage cheese (blended smooth)
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½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
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¼ cup grated parmesan
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2 tbsp oat flour or almond flour
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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¼ tsp turmeric powder
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¼ tsp black pepper
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Salt to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
👩🍳 Instructions
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Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, mix chicken, zucchini, egg, cottage cheese, and olive oil.
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Add oat flour, cheeses, spices, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
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Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and shape into small poppers.
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Place on tray, slightly flatten the tops.
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Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and firm.
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Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for extra color.
🥣 Serving Ideas
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With yogurt-based garlic dip
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In lunchboxes or snack platters
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Inside wraps or protein bowls
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Post-workout snack
❓ Q & A
Q: Why are these high in protein?
A: Chicken, cottage cheese, egg, and cheese all contribute clean protein.
Q: Can I air-fry them?
A: Yes! Air-fry at 180°C (350°F) for 12–14 minutes, shaking once.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Absolutely. Freeze after baking for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Use almond flour or gluten-free oat flour.
Q: How do I keep them juicy?
A: Squeeze zucchini dry and don’t overbake—cottage cheese keeps them moist.