Crunchy zucchini chips are a fun and healthy snack! They’re super crispy and easy to make, perfect for munching any time of day. Just slice, season, and bake!
Honestly, I can’t stop eating these once I start. They make a great alternative to regular chips, and I love adding different spices to keep things exciting!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis are best. If you can’t find zucchini, you could substitute with yellow squash. It gives a similar flavor and texture.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using grated Parmesan for its rich flavor, but you can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are my favorite for extra crunch! If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts instead.
Olive Oil: While I prefer the taste of olive oil, you can use any cooking oil like avocado oil. For a lighter version, try cooking spray.
How Do You Get Zucchini Chips Extra Crispy?
The thickness of your zucchini slices impacts their crispiness. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick for the best result. Another trick is to lightly coat them with oil and ensure they are spaced out on the baking sheet.
- Preheat the oven properly to ensure consistent baking.
- Flip the chips halfway through baking for an even crunch.
- Allowing them to cool will also help them crisp up further.
Crunchy Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for slight smokiness)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (or cooking spray)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes. You’ll have a delicious, crunchy snack ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the perfect temperature for getting those zucchini chips nice and crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to make cleanup easy!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash and dry the zucchinis well. Slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. This is key for getting them crunchy—too thick, and they’ll be soft, so take your time with this step!
3. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. This mixture will give your chips a flavorful crunch!
4. Coat the Zucchini:
Taking each zucchini slice, lightly brush or spray both sides with olive oil. Then, dip them into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so everything sticks nicely to the slices.
5. Arrange for Baking:
Place each coated zucchini slice in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overlapping; giving them space helps them cook evenly and get nice and crispy!
6. Bake the Chips:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and let the chips bake for about 20-25 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through so they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and crispy!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. This helps the chips get even crispier. Then they’re ready to enjoy!
Enjoy your crunchy, delicious zucchini chips as a healthy snack or a side dish! They’re perfect for dipping or just munching on their own!
Can I Use Other Vegetables for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use other vegetables like eggplant, sweet potatoes, or carrots. Just make sure to slice them thinly for the best crunch, and adjust the baking time as needed since different vegetables may cook at varying rates.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
To store any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They tend to lose their crispiness, so for the best texture, enjoy them fresh. If you want to re-crisp them, pop them back in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes!
Can I Make These Chips in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as air fryers can cook faster than ovens.
What Seasonings Can I Use Other than Garlic Powder?
Feel free to get creative with seasonings! Some great alternatives include Italian seasoning, chili powder, or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just adjust the amounts to your taste!
