These crispy zucchini chips are a perfect snack! They’re light, crunchy, and super easy to make. Just slice the zucchini, season it, and bake until golden.
I love munching on these while watching TV. They are way healthier than regular chips, and I can snack without any guilt—win-win! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis are a must for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, yellow squash works nicely as a substitute. It offers a similar texture and flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using freshly grated Parmesan for its sharp taste and meltiness. For a vegetarian option, look for a cheese that is made without animal rennet, or swap it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a wonderful crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will do too. If gluten-free, check labels or use crushed gluten-free crackers, like rice or corn-based ones.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor, but you could use avocado oil or any light oil you prefer. Just make sure it’s suitable for high heat!
How Do I Get My Zucchini Chips Extra Crispy?
The key to crispy zucchini chips is in the moisture control. Zucchini contains a lot of water, so you’ll want to take the right steps to dry them out before baking.
- After slicing, sprinkle some salt on the zucchini rounds and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture.
- Pat the slices dry with a paper towel before proceeding with oil and seasoning. This way, they’ll crisp up better in the oven!
- Be sure to arrange them in a single layer on the baking sheet, avoiding overlap, so that they can crisp evenly.
How to Make Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or as needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious snack will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes in the oven for baking. So, in about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a tasty and healthy treat ready to munch on!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help make the chips crispy! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis to make sure they’re clean. Then, slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner they are, the crunchier your chips will be.
3. Combine the Coating:
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mix will give your chips a delicious flavor and a nice crispy coating!
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Place the zucchini slices in a large bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Toss everything gently to make sure each slice gets a nice coat of oil. After that, sprinkle the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture over the slices and toss again until all the zucchini is coated evenly.
5. Arrange and Bake:
Lay the coated zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they don’t overlap to ensure they get crispy. Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven.
6. Monitor the Baking:
Let the zucchini bake for about 15-20 minutes. Remember to flip the chips halfway through the baking time for even crispness. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn; you want them golden brown!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re baked to crispy perfection, remove the chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will make them even crunchier! Then, enjoy your delicious, healthy zucchini chips as a snack or side dish!
These zucchini chips are crunchy, cheesy, and just the right bite to satisfy your cravings while keeping things healthy. Enjoy snacking!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, try using shredded mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may melt a bit differently!
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, crushed cornflakes or gluten-free crackers work well in place of breadcrumbs. You can also try ground almonds for a low-carb alternative.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store any leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay crispy for about a day or two, but for the best crunch, it’s ideal to eat them fresh!
Can I Air Fry the Zucchini Chips Instead?
Yes, air frying is a great option! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), and cook the zucchini chips in a single layer for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.