Description
These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Poppers are flavorful bite-sized snacks made with ground chicken, almond flour, and a blend of spices. Coated in a crispy almond flour crust and tossed in tangy BBQ sauce, they’re perfect for game day or a tasty appetizer. Ready in under 40 minutes with an easy air frying method for a healthier, crispy finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground chicken or ground turkey
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/3 cup almond flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 sweet onion, diced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp diced jalapenos (optional)
Coating Mix
- 3/4 cup almond flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Additional
- 3/4 cup compliant BBQ sauce
- Ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, diced onions, and jalapenos if using. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients.
- Add Binding Ingredients: Add the beaten egg and 1/3 cup almond flour to the mixture, stirring until evenly combined. This helps bind the mixture ensuring the poppers hold together during cooking.
- Shape the Poppers: Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter, for even cooking and bite-sized portions.
- Prepare Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together 3/4 cup almond flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to create a flavorful coating for the poppers.
- Coat the Chicken Balls: Carefully roll each chicken ball into the almond flour mixture until well coated, ensuring a crispy crust after air frying.
- Air Fry the Poppers: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated chicken balls in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 13 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying with cooking spray to achieve a crispy exterior.
- Toss with BBQ Sauce and Serve: Remove cooked chicken poppers from the air fryer, toss in 3/4 cup BBQ sauce, and serve immediately with ranch dip and fresh vegetables like celery and carrots for a complete snack.
Notes
- For extra heat, add more diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Use compliant BBQ sauce for a healthier version; check labels for added sugars or gluten.
- These poppers can be baked in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, if an air fryer is not available.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
