Ingredients
1 lb ground chicken (or ground turkey)
1 cup grated zucchini (squeeze out excess water)
1 cup grated carrot
1 cup finely chopped spinach (or kale)
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp oil (avocado or olive oil) for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Grate the zucchini and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean towel to keep the nuggets crisp.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, zucchini, carrot, spinach, and all the seasonings. Mix until evenly combined and the mixture holds together.
- Form the nuggets: Shape the mixture into small, nugget-sized patties using your hands or a scoop. Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
- Cook the nuggets (stovetop): Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the nuggets in batches for about 5 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Air fryer option: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve: Drain on paper towels and serve warm with ketchup, ranch, or honey mustard for dipping.
Notes
Add ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar for cheesy nuggets.
Coat nuggets in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Add finely chopped broccoli or cauliflower for more veggies.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for adults.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried or Air-Fried
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 nuggets
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg