These Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips are a crispy snack that packs a punch of flavor! Coated in garlic and savory parmesan, they’re perfect for munching.
Who knew veggies could be this tasty? I love serving them with a dip on movie night. They disappear faster than popcorn! 🍿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of this dish! Choose fresh, firm zucchinis. If zucchinis are unavailable, you can use eggplant or yellow squash as great alternatives.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated gives the best flavor and texture. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add that delicious crunch! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but the texture might be a bit denser.
Garlic: I like using fresh minced garlic for stronger flavor, but garlic powder is convenient and does the job well. If you like it spicy, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes!
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Crispy Zucchini Chips?
The key to crispy chips lies in how you prepare the zucchini. First, make sure to slice them evenly, about 1/4 inch thick! This helps them cook uniformly.
- After slicing, pat the zucchini rounds with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for getting that crispy texture.
- Dredging in the egg and then the breadcrumb mixture should be done thoroughly—coating every surface helps to keep them crispy during baking.
- Finally, give them a light spray of cooking oil on top before baking. It helps the coating turn golden brown and crunchy.
Keep an eye on the oven, as cooking times can vary slightly based on how thick your slices are. Enjoy your crispy and tasty chips!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Chips:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves garlic, minced finely)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional, for color and flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 large egg
- Cooking spray or olive oil for baking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need roughly 30 minutes to have your crispy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips ready to enjoy! Perfect as a snack or a side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature will help get those chips nice and crispy! Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, and lightly spray it with cooking oil.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Give your zucchinis a good wash! Then, slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Keeping the slices even helps them bake consistently and get crispy!
3. Set Up the Dipping Stations:
In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg until it’s nice and frothy. In another shallow bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give your zucchini a yummy coating!
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Now for the fun part! Dip each zucchini slice into the egg mixture, letting the excess egg drip off. Then, roll it around in the Parmesan breadcrumb mix, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks well. Repeat until all slices are coated.
5. Bake Them Up:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Give the tops a light spray of cooking oil or brush a little oil on them for added crunch. Bake in the oven for about 15-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through so both sides get nice and golden brown!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once they are crispy and beautifully golden, pull them out of the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. They’ll be hot! Serve them warm as a delicious snack with a dipping sauce like ranch or garlic aioli.
Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips! They’re a perfect treat for satisfying those crunchy cravings while still keeping it healthy!
Can I Use Different Types of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While medium green zucchinis work best for this recipe, you can also use yellow squash or even eggplant as delicious alternatives. Just be aware that cooking times might slightly vary depending on the vegetable’s moisture content.
Are There Any Substitutes for Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor without any dairy. Alternatively, you could use any hard cheese like Pecorino or a pre-packaged vegan cheese substitute if you prefer something else.
How Long Will the Zucchini Chips Stay Fresh?
These zucchini chips are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat and restore some crispiness, place them in the oven for a few minutes at 375°F (190°C).
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini slices and coat them earlier in the day, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven straight from the fridge!
