These zucchini chips are crispy, crunchy, and oh-so-tasty! They’re a healthy snack made by slicing zucchini thin and baking it until golden brown.
What’s great is that you can spice them up to your liking! I love sprinkling a little salt and pepper before baking—they disappear fast! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini is the star here! Choose medium-sized ones for the best flavor and texture. If you’re out of zucchini, you might try yellow squash for a similar crunch.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy flavor. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, nutritional yeast is a great substitute that gives a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Garlic Powder: This seasoning is perfect for adding flavor. If you prefer fresh garlic, mince a clove and use it instead! Or, for a twist, try onion powder for a different flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil brings richness. For a lighter option, avocado oil also works well and has a high smoke point.
How Do You Get the Zucchini Chips Extra Crispy?
The key to crispy zucchini chips is all about the slicing and baking. Here’s how to ensure you get that perfect crunch:
- Make sure to slice your zucchini thinly, around 1/8-inch thick. This allows for even cooking and crisping.
- Coat the slices lightly in olive oil. Too much oil can make them soggy.
- Spread the zucchini in a single layer on your baking sheet. Overlapping will lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Keep an eye on them while baking. Every oven is different, so check for golden brown edges to decide when they’re done.
Let them cool slightly after baking! This helps get them even crunchier. Enjoy your homemade chips as a tasty, healthy snack!
How to Make Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying your delicious zucchini chips in about 30 minutes total! Perfect for a quick snack or side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is essential for getting those chips crispy! While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Zucchini:
Wash your zucchinis under cool water. Then, using a sharp knife, slice them into thin rounds—about 1/8-inch thick. The thinner the slices, the crispier your chips will be!
3. Coat with Olive Oil:
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil until they’re evenly coated. This will help them bake nicely and not stick to the pan.
4. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, blend together the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will add a delicious flavor to your chips!
5. Season the Zucchini:
Sprinkle the cheese and seasoning mixture over the zucchini slices. Gently toss everything together to make sure each slice gets a bit of that tasty blend.
6. Arrange for Baking:
Spread the zucchini slices out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure not to overlap them; this way, they will bake evenly and turn crispy.
7. Bake the Chips:
Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the chips for 15-20 minutes. Be sure to turn them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they’re golden brown around the edges.
8. Let Cool:
Once out of the oven, let the chips cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This will help them get even crispier!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your zucchini chips warm or at room temperature. They make a fantastic healthy snack or side dish! Enjoy your crunchy creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella. Just make sure they’re grated finely so they adhere well to the zucchini slices.
What If My Chips Are Soggy?
If your zucchini chips turn out soggy, it might be because the slices were too thick or they were overlapping on the baking sheet. Next time, ensure they’re sliced thin and arranged in a single layer. Additionally, consider baking them longer if needed!
How to Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they lose their crunch, you can revive them by reheating them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Can I Use a Dehydrator for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If you have a dehydrator, slice the zucchini just as instructed and place them on the dehydrator trays. Dehydrate at around 125°F (52°C) for 6-8 hours, or until crispy. This method will give you a different texture but is equally delicious!
