These crispy baked zucchini chips are a fun and healthy snack that’s super easy to make! Just slice up some zucchini, sprinkle with a bit of salt, and bake until golden.
They come out crunchy and delicious, perfect for munching while you binge-watch your favorite show! I love dipping mine in some salsa or hummus for extra flavor! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Choose firm, fresh zucchinis for the best results. If you can’t find zucchinis, you could substitute with yellow squash or even eggplant for a similar texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan works best as it melts beautifully. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a great crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free panko or crushed cornflakes!
Eggs: They help the breadcrumbs stick to the zucchini. If you’re vegan or have egg allergies, consider using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce.
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini Chips Are Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crunch, slicing the zucchini thinly is essential. Aim for about 1/8-inch thick slices. A mandoline works wonders here!
- After slicing, consider salting the zucchini for about 15 minutes to draw out moisture; then pat them dry before breading.
- Coating them evenly in the egg and breadcrumb mixture is key, ensuring every slice is covered.
- Don’t forget to space them out on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate and crisp them up nicely.
- Lightly spraying the tops with oil helps them brown better, so don’t skip this step!
How to Make Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to bake, making it a quick and healthy snack option that you can enjoy in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While your oven is heating up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or giving them a light spray with cooking spray. This will prevent the zucchini chips from sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly, then slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick. The thinner the slices, the crispier they’ll get, so aim for uniformity!
3. Set Up Your Dipping Stations:
In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs with a fork until they’re well mixed. In another shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This will be your coating.
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Now it’s time to bread the zucchini! Dip each slice into the egg mixture, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Next, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until it’s fully coated. Place each coated zucchini slice onto the prepared baking sheets. Keep going until all slices are coated!
5. Spray for Crispiness:
Lightly spray the tops of the zucchini chips with cooking spray. This little extra touch helps them get that golden brown crispy texture while baking!
6. Bake Until Crunchy:
Pop the baking sheets into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, flip the zucchini slices to ensure they bake evenly. Keep an eye on them—once they’re golden brown, they’re ready!
7. Cool and Garnish:
When the zucchini chips are done baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy baked zucchini chips immediately for the best crunch. They pair wonderfully with your favorite dip like marinara sauce or ranch dressing. Enjoy your healthy snack!
FAQ for Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan gives a great flavor, you can use other types like mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the taste and texture slightly.
Can I Prep These Zucchini Chips in Advance?
You can slice the zucchini and prepare the egg and breadcrumb mixtures ahead of time. Just keep the zucchini slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to bake, coat them as instructed!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (although they’re best enjoyed fresh!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven or air fryer to restore some crispiness.
Can I Make These Zucchini Chips in an Air Fryer?
Yes! You can definitely make these in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), and cook the zucchini chips in a single layer for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
