Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips

Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips are a wholesome and delicious alternative to traditional fried snacks. Thinly sliced zucchini rounds are coated in a savory blend of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then baked until golden and perfectly crispy. These chips are perfect for guilt-free snacking, light appetizers, or a side dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Since these chips are baked rather than fried, they’re lower in calories and fat, making them a healthier snack choice.
• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses everyday pantry items, so you won’t need to search for anything exotic.
• Versatile Snack: They can be served with a variety of dips such as hummus, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce, or enjoyed on their own.
• Kid-Friendly: A great way to get kids to eat more vegetables without a fuss.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the seasoning or coating to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Zucchini
• Olive oil or cooking spray
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Slice the zucchini into thin, uniform rounds—about 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Lightly coat each zucchini slice with olive oil or use cooking spray.
5. Dip the slices into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
6. Arrange the coated slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the chips are golden brown and crisp. Flip halfway through for even crispiness.
8. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 4 servings
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Herbed Version: Mix in dried Italian herbs or fresh chopped parsley for an aromatic twist.
• Vegan Option: Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese and ensure the breadcrumbs are vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the chips soggy.

FAQs

How thin should the zucchini slices be?

For the best results, aim for slices about 1/8 inch thick. Thinner slices yield crispier chips.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko breadcrumbs give a crunchier texture. Regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch.

Do I need to salt the zucchini before baking?

Salting is optional but can help draw out moisture, making for crispier chips. If you choose to salt, let them sit for 10 minutes and pat dry before coating.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, zucchini chips can be cooked in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What dips go well with zucchini chips?

Great options include ranch dressing, marinara sauce, tzatziki, or a garlic aioli.

How can I prevent the chips from becoming soggy?

Ensure the zucchini slices are dry before coating, and do not overcrowd the baking sheet to allow proper airflow.

Can I prepare them in advance?

You can slice the zucchini and prepare the coating ahead of time, but it’s best to bake them fresh for optimal crispiness.

Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?

No, but it enhances the flavor. You can omit it or substitute with nutritional yeast or another hard cheese.

Can I freeze baked zucchini chips?

Freezing is not recommended as it can make the chips soggy when thawed.

Are these chips keto-friendly?

If you replace the breadcrumbs with a low-carb alternative like crushed pork rinds or almond flour, they can be made keto-friendly.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips offer a delicious and healthy alternative to conventional snacks. With a crunchy texture and rich flavor from the Parmesan and breadcrumbs, they are sure to satisfy your craving for something savory without compromising nutrition. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, this easy recipe is one you’ll return to time and again.

Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips

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Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips are a healthy, flavorful snack made by coating thin zucchini slices in a savory Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture and baking them until golden and crispy.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 medium zucchini
• 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. Slice zucchini into thin, uniform rounds, about 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Lightly coat zucchini slices with olive oil or use cooking spray.
5. Dip each slice into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to help the coating stick.
6. Place the coated slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
8. Cool slightly before serving.

Notes

• Add cayenne or smoked paprika for a spicy version.
• Use dried herbs or fresh parsley for an herbed variation.
• To make vegan, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and ensure vegan breadcrumbs.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 5mg