Crunchy zucchini chips are a tasty snack that’s easy to make! Just slice up fresh zucchini and bake them until they’re crispy. You can season them with your favorite spices for extra flavor!
I love grabbing a handful of these chips instead of potato chips. Plus, they’re a fun way to sneak in some veggies. Who knew healthy could taste so good? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are the star here. Look for firm, vibrant green ones. If you can’t find zucchini, you can use yellow squash as a tasty alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without the cheese. Vegan cheese that melts can also work well.
Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a great crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work, too. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. You can even crush up cornflakes if you prefer!
Garlic Powder: This adds depth to the flavor. Feel free to use fresh minced garlic instead! Just be cautious with the amount, as fresh can be stronger.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Chips Super Crispy?
Achieving that perfect crunch requires some key techniques. Here’s how to do it just right!
- Slice the zucchini thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Thinner slices bake up crispy.
- Make sure to coat the zucchini evenly with olive oil; this helps them become crispy while baking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Lay the slices in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Flipping the chips halfway through is crucial. It helps both sides get that golden-brown crunch.
- Letting them cool a bit after baking will enhance their crispiness, so resist the urge to dig in right away!
Crunchy Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then 20-25 minutes baking them in the oven. Altogether, it takes approximately 35-40 minutes from start to finish for these delicious crunchy zucchini chips!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help prevent the chips from sticking and make cleaning up a breeze!
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash and dry your zucchinis. Slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner the slices, the crunchier the chips will be, so take your time to keep them nice and even.
3. Mix the Coating:
In a large bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This will be the tasty coating that gives your chips that wonderful crunch!
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
In a separate bowl, toss the sliced zucchini with the olive oil until they are evenly coated. You want each slice to get just enough oil to make the coating stick!
5. Bread the Zucchini:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the coating sticks on both sides. This step is crucial for that crispy texture!
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Now, it’s time to place the coated zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet. Arrange them in a single layer without overlapping. This ensures they bake evenly and become super crispy.
7. Bake and Flip:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Be sure to flip the chips halfway through the baking time. This gives both sides a chance to become golden brown and crispy!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chips cool slightly. They will continue to crisp up a bit during this time. It’s tough, but try not to snack on them just yet!
9. Enjoy Your Snack!
Serve your crunchy zucchini chips right away as a snack or appetizer. They’re perfect on their own or dipped in your favorite sauce. Enjoy this healthy and satisfying treat!
Can I Use Different Seasonings for the Zucchini Chips?
Absolutely! Get creative with your spices. You can add paprika for a smoky flavor, Italian seasoning for an herbaceous twist, or even red pepper flakes for some heat. Just adjust the amount to your taste preferences!
Can I Make These Chips Without Cheese?
Yes! If you want a dairy-free version, you can simply omit the cheese and use extra breadcrumbs. You can also substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store any leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, avoid refrigerating them. You can re-crisp them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes before enjoying.
How Can I Tell When the Zucchini Chips Are Done?
The chips are done when they are golden brown and feel crispy to the touch. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning. Remember, they will continue to crisp up as they cool!
