Description
Delicious and crispy Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Poppers made with ground chicken, seasoned with spices, coated in almond flour, and perfectly air fried for a healthy, flavorful appetizer or snack. These bite-sized poppers are tossed in tangy BBQ sauce and served with creamy ranch dressing for dipping.
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
Sauce and Serving
- 3/4 cup compliant BBQ sauce
- Ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Mix the 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 evenly.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the beaten egg and 1/3 cup almond flour to the mixture, stirring until the mixture is well combined and holds together for shaping.
- Form the Poppers: Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized balls, approximately 1.5 inches in diameter for uniform cooking.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together 3/4 cup almond flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to create the flavorful coating.
- Coat the Meatballs: Carefully roll each chicken ball into the almond flour seasoning mixture until each is well coated, ensuring an even crust when air fried.
- Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated chicken balls in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding to allow even air circulation. Cook for 13 minutes, flipping halfway at around 6-7 minutes and spraying again with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
- Toss in BBQ Sauce: Remove the cooked chicken poppers from the air fryer and immediately toss them in 3/4 cup of BBQ sauce, coating each piece evenly. Serve them hot with ranch dressing and fresh vegetables like celery and carrots on the side for a delightful appetizer experience.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for chicken if preferred.
- Adjust jalapeno quantity or omit for less heat.
- Ensure air fryer basket is not overcrowded to get crispy edges.
- The almond flour coating helps provide a crunchy texture without deep frying.
- Use low-sugar or compliant BBQ sauce for a healthier option.
- These poppers are perfect for parties, snacks, or game day appetizers.
