These Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips are a tasty and healthy snack that will make your crunch cravings happy! Made from fresh zucchini, they’re lightly baked to golden perfection.
I love how easy they are to prepare—just slice, season, and bake! Perfect for munching while binge-watching your favorite shows. You might just want to make a double batch! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium-sized zucchinis work best. If you can’t find zucchini, you could try using yellow squash or even eggplant for a different taste.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs, or crush some gluten-free crackers.
Parmesan Cheese: This brings a lovely flavor. For a dairy-free alternative, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Garlic Powder: This adds great depth. If you’re fresh garlic fan, you can substitute the powder with minced garlic, but be careful as it may burn faster in the oven.
How Can I Ensure My Zucchini Chips Are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunch is key! The trick lies in moisture control and proper baking technique. Here’s how you can achieve crispy chips:
- Slice the zucchini into even rounds of about 1/8 inch to ensure uniform cooking.
- After tossing with olive oil, allow the zucchini to sit for a few minutes. This helps the salt draw out some moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; spacing them out allows hot air to circulate and promotes crispiness.
- Bake at a higher temperature (425°F) and keep an eye on them! Flip halfway through for even browning.
Follow these tips and enjoy wonderfully crunchy zucchini chips every time! 🥒✨
Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips – Healthy Snack Idea
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/8-inch rounds
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 25 minutes to bake. So in total, you’ll need about 35 minutes to whip up these deliciously crispy zucchini chips!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your zucchini chips a flavorful crunch!
3. Coat the Zucchini:
Take your zucchini slices and toss them in olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. This will help the breadcrumbs stick and keep the zucchini from drying out.
4. Bread the Zucchini Slices:
Next, dip each zucchini slice into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating adheres well on both sides.
5. Arrange for Baking:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they don’t overlap so that they can bake evenly and get crispy!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the zucchini chips in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure they become golden brown and crispy all over.
7. Cool and Garnish:
After baking, remove the chips from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. They will get crunchier as they cool. Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
These crispy zucchini chips are best served warm as a delightful snack or side dish. Enjoy your guilt-free, delicious treat!
FAQ for Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
Can I Use Other Vegetables Besides Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can use other vegetables like eggplant, sweet potatoes, or even carrots. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as different vegetables might require more or less time to bake.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store any leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, they tend to lose their crispiness over time, so they’re best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make These Zucchini Chips in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the zucchini chips in a single layer for about 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them to get that perfect crunch!
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work too; just keep in mind that the texture might not be as crispy. You could also substitute with crushed cornflakes or even ground almonds for a gluten-free option!