Chicken Zucchini Poppers with Cilantro Mayo Dipping Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a fun and flavorful snack or appetizer that’s both wholesome and bursting with freshness, the Chicken Zucchini Poppers with Cilantro Mayo Dipping Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. These golden-brown bites combine tender ground chicken with shredded zucchini, garlic, and fresh herbs, creating a perfect balance of juicy, savory, and crisp textures. The vibrant cilantro mayo dipping sauce brings a zesty, creamy kick, elevating each popper to a party-worthy treat that feels light yet satisfying. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a regular favorite at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple but essential ingredients. Each plays a key role in building the flavor profile and texture: ground chicken offers lean protein, zucchini adds moisture and a subtle sweetness, and the fresh herbs and garlic bring a punch of aromatic goodness. The dipping sauce ingredients balance the poppers perfectly with their creamy, tangy, and herby notes.

• 1 pound ground chicken (at least 7% fat recommended): Provides juicy protein and helps bind the poppers together.
• 1-2 medium zucchini squash (about 1½ cups shredded): Adds moisture and a mild crunch, keeping the poppers light.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses savory depth in the poppers themselves.
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped: Offers a subtle onion-like freshness that lifts the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh black pepper: Gives a gentle spice that complements the chicken.
• 1-2 tablespoons oil for cooking: Helps achieve that golden crust without sticking.
• 1 cup fresh cilantro: The star herb for the dipping sauce—bright and full of flavor.
• 1 small garlic clove: Adds punch to the cilantro mayo for an herby garlic kick.
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise: Makes the dipping sauce luxuriously creamy.
• 1 tablespoon cottage cheese: Adds a subtle tang and creamy texture to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar: Brings acidity to balance the richness of the mayo and cheese.

How to Make Chicken Zucchini Poppers with Cilantro Mayo Dipping Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cilantro Mayo Dipping Sauce

Start by combining the fresh cilantro, garlic clove, mayonnaise, cottage cheese, and distilled white vinegar in a food processor or blender. Blend until everything is smoothly combined, creating a vibrant, creamy sauce. Don’t skip refrigerating it for at least 30 minutes, as this resting time thickens the sauce and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can simply finely chop the cilantro and mix everything by hand before seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.

Step 2: Grate and Drain the Zucchini

Using a cheese grater, shred the zucchini finely and place it on a paper towel. Sprinkle a pinch of kosher salt over the shreds, then gently squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is crucial to prevent soggy poppers. The zucchini will contribute a delicate sweetness and tender texture without making the patties fall apart.

Step 3: Mix and Form the Poppers

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini with the ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped chives, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Shape the mixture into 3-inch patties—this recipe should yield about six poppers. Handling the mixture lightly will keep the texture tender.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Zucchini Poppers

Heat a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat and add your oil. Once shimmering, place the patties gently into the pan. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side, or until each popper develops a golden brown crust and is cooked through. If the poppers brown too quickly before cooking through, transfer them to a preheated 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven for a couple of minutes to finish cooking perfectly without burning.

Step 5: Serve Warm with Cilantro Mayo Dipping Sauce

For the best experience, serve these poppers right away, still warm, alongside your chilled dipping sauce. You can also dollop the cilantro mayo directly on each popper for an extra burst of flavor in every bite.

How to Serve Chicken Zucchini Poppers with Cilantro Mayo Dipping Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle additional fresh chopped cilantro or finely sliced chives over the poppers for a fresh, colorful touch. A wedge of lime on the side adds a bright, zesty accent that perfectly complements the rich, herbaceous sauce.

Side Dishes

These poppers pair beautifully with light and flavorful sides. A crisp garden salad or some roasted vegetables will create a balanced meal. For a heartier spread, consider serving with jasmine rice or a simple quinoa pilaf to soak up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, arrange the poppers on a large platter with small bowls of the cilantro mayo sauce scattered around for dipping. You can also skewer each popper with a toothpick for easy finger food. Another fun idea is to serve them as sliders on mini buns with a bit of the sauce and fresh lettuce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover poppers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the cilantro mayo sauce separately to preserve its freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked poppers by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll maintain their best quality for up to 2 months. Keep the dipping sauce refrigerated but consume within a few days instead of freezing.

Reheating

Reheat the poppers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350-degree oven until warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that satisfying crust. Remember to bring the dipping sauce to room temperature or give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute, but since it can be leaner, consider adding a little olive oil to keep the poppers moist and flavorful.

How do I remove extra moisture from zucchini?

After grating the zucchini and sprinkling it with salt, let it sit for a few minutes, then use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This prevents soggy poppers.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, these poppers are perfect for meal prep. You can make them ahead, refrigerate or freeze, and reheat when needed, making for an easy protein-packed snack or light meal.

Can I make the cilantro mayo dipping sauce dairy-free?

Definitely. Replace mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative and omit the cottage cheese or substitute with a vegan option to suit dietary needs while keeping the creamy texture intact.

What if I want a spicier dipping sauce?

Add a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeño to the cilantro mayo to dial up the heat. It pairs amazingly with the mild, savory poppers.

Final Thoughts

Making the Chicken Zucchini Poppers with Cilantro Mayo Dipping Sauce Recipe is a delightful way to bring fresh, vibrant flavors to your snack or appetizer lineup. It’s approachable, satisfying, and filled with wholesome ingredients that will impress without stress. I hope you enjoy making these poppers as much as I do—they’re perfect for sharing (or not!). Give it a try and watch how quickly they disappear from the plate!

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