These crispy zucchini chips are a fun and tasty treat! With just a sprinkle of salt and a little oil, you can turn fresh zucchini into a delightful snack that’s hard to resist.
They’re super easy to make and perfect for munching while watching your favorite show. I love making a big batch, so I always have some on hand—trust me, they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis work best for chips. Choose medium-sized ones for even slices. If you don’t have zucchini, try using eggplant or cucumbers as alternatives.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese gives a great flavor and helps the chips get crispy. If you need a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Panko Bread Crumbs: These are optional but add extra crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular bread crumbs or crushed cornflakes can work well too!
Garlic Powder: It adds a lovely flavor. You can also use fresh minced garlic or garlic salt, but adjust the salt amount accordingly.
Olive Oil: This helps with crispiness. Feel free to swap it for avocado oil or any other cooking oil you prefer.
How Can I Achieve Crispy Zucchini Chips?
To get those chips nice and crispy, it’s all about preparation and baking technique. Start by slicing your zucchini thinly, about 1/8 inch. Thin slices ensure they cook evenly and become crisp.
- Brush or spray both sides of the zucchini with oil. This helps the coating stick and promotes crispiness.
- Coat the slices thoroughly in the Parmesan mixture—don’t rush this step!
- Make sure to place the chips in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overlapping slices can steam and won’t get crispy.
- Flipping them halfway through baking is key to even browning and crispness.
After baking, allow them to cool on the sheet. This final step helps them crisp up even more!
How to Make Delicious Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs (optional for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or cooking spray)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend around 30-35 minutes to create these tasty snacks. Perfect for a quick nibble!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This helps ensure your zucchini chips will bake evenly and get that nice crispy texture. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash your zucchinis under running water, then slice them thinly into about 1/8 inch thick rounds. Try to keep the slices uniform for even cooking—this makes a big difference in how well they bake!
3. Make the Coating Mix:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko bread crumbs (if you’re using them), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give your zucchini chips flavor and crunch!
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Lightly brush the zucchini slices on both sides with olive oil, or use cooking spray. This helps the coating stick and makes them crispy. Then, press each slice into the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated.
5. Arrange and Bake:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they don’t overlap—this is key for getting them crispy! Then pop them into the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through for even cooking!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re golden brown and crispy, take them out and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They’ll crisp up even more as they cool. Now, serve them warm or at room temperature as a delicious snack!
Enjoy your crispy, savory zucchini chips!
Can I Use Other Vegetables for Chips?
Absolutely! While zucchini is delicious, you can try this recipe with other vegetables like eggplant, sweet potatoes, or even kale. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and moisture content of the veggies.
What Should I Do if My Zucchini Chips Are Not Crispy?
If your chips are still soggy, it often means they were either too thick or not baked long enough. Next time, slice them thinner and ensure they are spread out in a single layer. You can also bake them a bit longer, monitoring closely to avoid burning.
Can I Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Yes! Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They tend to lose their crispiness quickly, so enjoy them fresh! If they get soft, you can crisp them up in the oven for a few minutes.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
While they’re best fresh, you can prepare the zucchini slices and coat them ahead of time. Store the uncooked slices in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then just bake them when you’re ready to enjoy!