Yield: 20–24 bites (4–6 servings)

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Bites

• 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
• 1 medium zucchini, grated (about 1 cup)
• 1 teaspoon salt (for draining zucchini)
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
• 1 large egg
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)

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Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

• ¼ cup butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of black pepper

Or make a creamy dip:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic, grated
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon dill
• Salt and pepper

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Grate zucchini.

Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt.

Let sit for 10 minutes.

Wrap in a towel and squeeze out as much water as possible.

This prevents soggy meatballs.

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Step 2: Mix

Combine:

• Ground chicken
• Zucchini
• Parmesan
• Mozzarella
• Breadcrumbs
• Egg
• Garlic
• Parsley
• Italian seasoning
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Pepper

Mix gently until just combined.

Do not overmix.

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Step 3: Shape

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon.

Roll into golf-ball-sized pieces.

Place on a parchment-lined baking tray.

Brush tops lightly with olive oil.

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Step 4: Bake

Bake at:

400°F (200°C)

for

20–25 minutes

until golden brown.

Internal temperature:

165°F (74°C).

For extra color:

Broil 2–3 minutes.

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Optional Air Fryer

Cook at:

390°F (199°C)

12–14 minutes

Turn halfway.

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Pan Fry

Cook in a skillet over medium heat.

8–10 minutes.

Turn frequently.

Finish covered for 2 minutes.

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Garlic Butter

Melt butter.

Add garlic.

Cook 30 seconds.

Add:

• Parsley
• Lemon juice
• Parmesan

Brush over hot chicken bites.

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Nutrition (Approximate)

Per serving (4 bites)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 25 g
• Fat: 17 g
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Calcium: 18% DV
• Iron: 8% DV

Values vary depending on the exact ingredients used.

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Tips

✔ Squeeze zucchini very dry.

✔ Use freshly grated Parmesan.

✔ Chill mixture for 20 minutes if too soft.

✔ Do not overbake or chicken becomes dry.

✔ Brush with garlic butter after baking for extra flavor.

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Storage

Refrigerator:

3–4 days

Freezer:

Up to 3 months

Reheat:

• Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes
• Air fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 5–6 minutes
• Microwave: 1–2 minutes

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Variations

• Add chopped spinach.
• Mix in cooked bacon.
• Use ground turkey instead of chicken.
• Add red pepper flakes for heat.
• Replace mozzarella with cheddar or pepper jack.
• Make gluten-free with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

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Serving Suggestions

• Garlic herb dip
• Ranch dressing
• Marinara sauce
• Tzatziki
• Caesar salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Pasta
• Rice
• Mashed potatoes

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Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Why are my chicken bites falling apart?
A: The mixture may be too wet. Squeeze the zucchini well and add 2–3 tablespoons more breadcrumbs if needed.

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
A: Yes. Ground turkey works very well and cooks similarly.

Q: Can I make them ahead?
A: Yes. Shape the bites and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Yes. Freeze uncooked or cooked bites in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep for up to 3 months.

Q: How do I know they’re fully cooked?
A: The safest method is to use a food thermometer. The center should reach 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I make them without breadcrumbs?
A: Yes. Substitute almond flour, crushed pork rinds, or extra Parmesan for a lower-carb version.

Q: What cheese works best?
A: Parmesan provides flavor, while mozzarella adds a soft, melty texture. A combination of both gives the best result.

Q: Why did they turn out dry?
A: Overcooking is the most common cause. Remove them from the oven as soon as they reach 165°F (74°C), and brush with garlic butter immediately after baking.