Crunchy zucchini chips are a tasty snack that’s super easy to make! Just slice up some zucchini, season them, and bake until crispy. They’re light, healthy, and packed with flavor!
These chips are great for munching while watching a movie or as a side for lunch. I can’t help but sneak a few right off the tray—they’re that good! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Make sure to choose firm medium zucchinis; they hold up well when baked. If zucchini isn’t available, you can also use eggplant or cucumber slices for a different twist.
Parmesan Cheese: I love using grated Parmesan for its nutty flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a light and crispy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work fine, but they might not be as crunchy. You could also use crushed cornflakes as a substitute.
Herbs and Spices: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning really jazz up the flavor. Feel free to switch it up with your favorite seasonings. A bit of smoked paprika or chili powder can add some nice heat!
How Do I Get My Zucchini Chips Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crunch, draining excess moisture from the zucchini is key. After slicing, sprinkle the rounds with a bit of salt and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. This draws out moisture, which helps them crisp up better when baked.
- Keep your oven at a high temperature (425°F/220°C) to encourage browning.
- Arrange zucchini slices in a single layer on the baking sheet, not touching. This prevents steaming.
- Don’t skip the cooling step! Let them sit for a few minutes after baking to firm up even more.
How to Make Crunchy Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or parsley flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Cooking spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you can have delicious, crunchy zucchini chips ready in about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get your oven nice and hot by preheating it to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help make your chips extra crispy!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash and dry the zucchinis thoroughly. Then, slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick. The thinner the slices, the crunchier the chips will be!
3. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed—this is what will give your chips amazing flavor!
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help the breadcrumbs stick well to the zucchini.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not touching, as this will help them cook evenly. Lightly spray or drizzle them with olive oil to encourage crisping.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Remember to flip the slices halfway through so both sides can get nice and crispy.
7. Cool the Chips:
Once they’re golden brown and crunchy on the edges, take them out of the oven. Let your zucchini chips cool for a few minutes, as they will crisp up even more while cooling.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy! Serve your homemade crunchy zucchini chips immediately as a healthy snack or appetizer. They are delicious on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce!
Now you’re all set to enjoy your crunchy, flavorful zucchini chips! Happy snacking!
Can I Use Other Vegetables for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While zucchini is a great choice, you can try using thinly sliced carrots, sweet potatoes, or even eggplant. Just adjust the baking time as needed since different vegetables may take longer to crisp up.
What Can I Do if My Zucchini Chips Aren’t Crispy Enough?
If your chips aren’t as crispy as you’d like, make sure you let them cool completely on the baking sheet before serving. Alternatively, you can pop them back in the oven for a few extra minutes to help them firm up more.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store any leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To revive their crunchiness, you can reheat them in a toaster oven or regular oven for a few minutes.
Can I Prepare These Chips in Advance?
Yes! You can slice and coat the zucchini chips ahead of time, then refrigerate them for a couple of hours before baking. This will save you time when you’re ready to enjoy them!
