These crunchy zucchini chips are a tasty, healthy snack that’s super easy to make! Just slice up zucchini, season them, and bake until they’re perfectly crisp. Yum!
I love munching on these while watching TV. They’re a guilt-free treat that always makes me feel better about my snack choices. Plus, who can resist something so crunchy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis are perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a great alternative since it has a similar texture and taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely flavor and helps with crispiness. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast mixed with breadcrumbs for a cheesy taste without the cheese.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a nice crunch. If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, though the texture will differ slightly. Make sure they’re plain for the best flavor!
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add great flavor. Feel free to mix it up! Italian seasoning or even chili powder can replace them for a different twist.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Chips Extra Crunchy?
To ensure your zucchini chips are nice and crispy, follow these tips carefully:
- Slice the zucchini thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Thinner slices will get crunchier!
- Make sure the zucchini slices are dry. Pat them with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Don’t crowd the baking sheet. Lay the slices in a single layer to allow air to circulate.
- Spray or lightly coat the tops with olive oil to enhance crispiness as they bake.
- Flip the chips halfway through baking for even cooking and browning.
Following these steps will help you achieve the perfect crunch. Enjoy snacking on these delicious zucchini chips!
Crunchy Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chips:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Dipping sauce (e.g., spicy mayo or ranch), optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need an additional 20 to 25 minutes to bake the chips. So, in total, you’ll spend around 35 to 40 minutes getting these delicious crunchy zucchini chips ready. Perfect for a quick snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will help the zucchini chips crisp up nicely. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat and give it a light spray with cooking spray.
2. Slice the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis and slice them into very thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner they are, the crunchier they will become when baked. This is a key step for achieving that satisfying texture!
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg until it’s smooth. This will help the seasoning stick to the zucchini slices.
4. Mix the Coating:
In another shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until evenly blended. This will create a nice flavorful coating that makes the chips tasty!
5. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini slice and first dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any extra egg to drip off. Then roll the slice in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Place the coated zucchini on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure not to overlap any slices.
6. Final Spritz:
Once all the zucchini slices are on the baking sheet, lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. This will help them achieve an extra crunchy texture while baking!
7. Bake the Chips:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Make sure to flip the chips halfway through the baking time to ensure they cook evenly. You want them to be golden brown and crispy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, remove the zucchini chips from the oven. If desired, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for an added touch of color and flavor. Serve them warm with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce on the side for a delicious snack!
Enjoy your crunchy, flavorful zucchini chips!
Can I Use Different Types of Zucchini?
Yes! You can use any variety of zucchini, including yellow squash. Just remember that different types may have slightly different textures, but they’ll still taste delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but they will still provide a crunchy coating.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but if they lose some crunch, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up again!
Can I Make These Chips in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the zucchini chips in a single layer in the basket and air fry for about 10 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden brown.
