These crispy zucchini chips are a tasty and healthy snack! Just slice zucchini thin, toss in a little olive oil, and bake until golden—you’ll love the crunch!
What’s great is that they’re super easy to make, and you can add your favorite spices! I always end up munching on these while binge-watching shows. Who can resist? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis are the star here. Look for firm ones without soft spots. If you can’t find zucchini, yellow squash is a great alternative with a similar texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice cheesy flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast! It gives a cheesy taste without the milk.
Breadcrumbs: I often use panko for its extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free crumbs or crushed nuts can add a lovely flavor.
Egg: The egg helps the coating stick. If you’re vegan, substitute with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) as a binding agent.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Chips Extra Crispy?
To achieve crispier zucchini chips, moisture is your enemy! Start by slicing the zucchini thinly; around 1/8 inch works well. Here are some tips:
- After slicing, let the zucchini sit on paper towels for about 15-30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with another towel.
- Coat the slices lightly with oil if desired, which helps with crisping in the oven.
- Baking them at a high temperature (425°F) helps them crisp up nicely! Don’t forget to flip them halfway to ensure even frying.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have crunchy chips that make for a perfect snack!
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis
Coating Mixture:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Binding:
- 1 large egg
Optional:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for tossing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and another 20-25 minutes for baking. In total, it’s around 35-40 minutes to enjoy these delicious zucchini chips!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps make your chips wonderfully crispy! Don’t forget to line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Give the zucchinis a good wash and dry them with a towel. Now, slice them into thin rounds, aiming for about 1/8 inch in thickness. The thinner they are, the crunchier they’ll get!
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, whisk the large egg until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the binding agent for your chips.
4. Mix the Coating Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful coating is what makes the chips so yummy!
5. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Dip each zucchini slice into the egg mixture first, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Then, coat it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press down lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.
6. Arrange for Baking:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the lined baking sheet. If you want that extra crunch, feel free to spray or lightly brush them with olive oil.
7. Baking Time:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Be sure to flip the slices halfway through to ensure they get crispy all over. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden brown around the edges!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re baked, take the zucchini chips out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This helps them get even crunchier! Enjoy your crispy Parmesan zucchini chips as a snack or a fun side dish!
These zucchini chips are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to regular chips. Enjoy your crunchy treat! 😋
Can I Use Different Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds great flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may slightly alter the taste and texture of the chips.
How Can I Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store any leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To maintain their crunch, avoid refrigerating them. If they start to lose their crispness, you can re-bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to help revive them!
Can I Make These Chips in an Air Fryer?
Yes, an air fryer is a great alternative! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the zucchini chips in batches for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
What If I Don’t Have Bread Crumbs?
No worries! If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, cornmeal, or even finely chopped nuts for a gluten-free option. Just ensure the coating is still fine enough to adhere to the zucchini slices!