These healthy crispy baked zucchini chips are a fun and tasty snack! Just slice up some zucchini, season it, and bake until they’re golden and crunchy.
They’re a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your crunch cravings. I love munching on them while binge-watching my favorite shows! 🥒✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: Choose firm, fresh zucchinis for the best flavor and texture. If zucchinis aren’t available, try yellow squash; it’ll work well too!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a light crunch. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as an alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory kick! If you want to keep it dairy-free, omit it or use a vegan cheese if you have it.
Eggs: I like using a regular egg for binding, but a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) is a great vegan substitute!
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Chips Are Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crunch, moisture control is key! Make sure to dry the zucchini slices well with paper towels. This helps prevent sogginess during baking.
- Use thin slices—about 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheets. Arrange the slices in a single layer so they each get enough heat to crisp up.
- Flipping the chips halfway through baking ensures that both sides become golden and crunchy.
Healthy Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced into rounds
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg (or 1 flax egg for vegan option)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and healthy snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your zucchini chips will bake quickly and crisp up nicely. Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or lightly greasing them with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a shallow bowl, whisk your egg until it’s well combined. If you’re opting for a flax egg, simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes.
3. Make the Coating:
In another shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mix will give your chips that yummy crunch and flavor!
4. Get the Zucchini Ready:
Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is key for achieving crunchy chips!
5. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each zucchini round and dip it into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off. Then, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheets:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on your prepared baking sheets. Make sure not to overlap them; give them some space to crisp up.
7. Bake the Chips:
Lightly spray the tops of the zucchini chips with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil for that extra crispy goodness. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes. Make sure to flip them halfway through baking for even crispiness!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once they are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a cooling rack or set them on paper towels to cool slightly. This helps them get even crisper!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over your zucchini chips for a touch of freshness. Serve them right away with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy your crunchy, healthy baked zucchini chips!
FAQ for Healthy Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
While fresh zucchini is best for achieving that crispy texture, you can use frozen zucchini if needed. Make sure to thaw and drain the zucchini thoroughly to remove excess moisture before proceeding with the recipe.
How Can I Make These Chips Spicier?
If you love a kick of heat, consider adding some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
How to Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For maximum crunch, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes before serving.
Can I Make These Chips Without Bread Crumbs?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts for a keto-friendly version, or you could even try using a mix of ground flaxseeds for added nutrition.
