These crunchy zucchini chips are a tasty snack that’s both light and fun! Just slice zucchini, season it up, and bake until crispy. Perfect for munching while watching a movie!
I love how they satisfy that chip craving without the guilt. You might find yourself sneaking a few more—just don’t tell anyone! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh and firm zucchinis are perfect for chips. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash works well too! Just make sure to slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a great flavor and crispiness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast is a tasty alternative that gives a cheesy vibe without the dairy.
Breadcrumbs: I usually opt for panko for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will do. If gluten is a concern, there are gluten-free breadcrumbs available that work just as well!
Olive Oil: This helps the chips crisp up. Feel free to substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor or if you have dietary preferences.
How Can I Make Sure My Zucchini Chips Turn Out Crispy?
Getting those zucchini chips crispy is all about moisture control and even cooking. Start with slicing the zucchini thin and evenly; aim for about 1/8 inch thick. This helps them cook uniformly.
- After slicing, lay the rounds on a paper towel and sprinkle them lightly with salt. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to draw out some moisture.
- Use a clean towel to dab off any excess liquid before coating them with oil and seasonings.
- Arrange the chips in a single layer on the baking sheet, avoiding overlaps. This ensures that hot air can circulate around each chip.
- Flip them halfway through baking to help with even crisping. Keep an eye on them towards the end, since they can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
How to Make Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30-35 minutes to make delicious, crispy zucchini chips!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Slice the Zucchinis:
Wash the zucchinis under running water and dry them off with a towel. Use a sharp knife to slice them into thin, even rounds about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner they are, the crispier they’ll become!
3. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
4. Prepare for Coating:
In another shallow bowl, pour in the olive oil. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the zucchini slices.
5. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Now, take each zucchini slice and dip it into the olive oil, making sure each piece is well coated. Next, transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture and press gently to ensure an even coating. Arrange the coated slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overlapping to help them crisp up!
6. Bake the Chips:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Remember to flip the chips halfway through to ensure both sides get crispy. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary from oven to oven!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once the chips are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. This cooling time will help them get even crunchier. If you’d like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your homemade, crunchy zucchini chips warm or at room temperature! They make a perfect healthy snack or a great side dish for any meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan gives a great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re looking for a vegan option.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can use crushed crackers, cornmeal, or even ground almonds as a substitute. Just make sure to check for seasonings if you’re using flavored options!
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prep the zucchini slices and coat them in advance, storing them in the fridge for up to a day. Just bake them right before serving for the best crunch!
How Long Do Leftover Zucchini Chips Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If they lose some crunch, you can re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes!