These crunchy zucchini chips are a tasty and healthy snack! Just slice the zucchinis, season them, and bake until crispy. Simple, right?
Honestly, I can’t stop snacking on these once they’re ready. They’re way better than potato chips! Plus, they’re a great way to enjoy veggies with a fun crunch! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are the star here! If you’re in a pinch, yellow squash works too. You could also try eggplant slices for a different flavor and texture.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are fine, but panko gives an extra crunch! You can substitute them with crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder are classic, but feel free to mix it up. Try paprika for some smokiness or Italian seasoning for a herbaceous twist!
How Can I Get My Zucchini Chips Extra Crispy?
To achieve the ultimate crunch in your zucchini chips, follow these useful tips. Moisture is your enemy when it comes to crispiness!
- Slice the zucchini evenly to ensure they bake at the same rate. Thin slices (about 1/8-inch thick) work best.
- Pat the zucchini slices with paper towels before seasoning to remove excess moisture.
- Make sure to coat them lightly with olive oil, but don’t drown them! A little goes a long way.
- Using a single layer on the baking sheet is critical. Overcrowding will trap steam and make them soggy.
Monitor them closely in the last few minutes of baking to avoid burning but achieving that lovely golden crisp!
Crunchy Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying your crunchy zucchini chips in around 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick and healthy snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s heating up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Zucchini:
Wash your zucchinis thoroughly and slice them into thin, even rounds about 1/8-inch thick. Even slicing helps them cook evenly, ensuring each chip is crispy!
3. Make the Coating:
In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so all the dry ingredients mix together nicely.
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Drizzle or brush the zucchini slices with olive oil to give them a nice coat without soaking them too much. Then, take each slice and dip it into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well. Don’t rush this step; a good coating makes for good crunch!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Arrange the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap. This helps them bake evenly and get crispy. Pop them in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even browning until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the zucchini chips from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. They’ll get even crispier as they cool! Enjoy them warm as a healthy crunchy snack or appetizer. They pair well with your favorite dip too!
Enjoy your crispy, golden crunchy zucchini chips!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can try this same recipe with other vegetables like eggplant, sweet potatoes, or even carrots. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the thickness of your slices.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so tasty!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They might lose some crunch, but you can revive them in the oven for a few minutes!
Can I Make These Zucchini Chips in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the zucchini chips in a single layer for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on them, as they can cook faster in the air fryer!
What Should I Serve with Zucchini Chips?
These zucchini chips are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with dips like ranch dressing, hummus, or salsa. Feel free to get creative with your dipping choices!
