Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips are a healthy, crunchy, and flavorful snack made without frying. They offer a guilt-free, golden crispiness with simple ingredients and versatile seasonings. Perfect as a light appetizer or wholesome side, these chips are easy to prepare and ideal for any occasion.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- Zucchini – 2 medium-sized
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Parmesan cheese – 1/4 cup, grated
- Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
Optional Ingredients
- Panko breadcrumbs – 1/4 cup (optional, for extra crunch)
- Cayenne pepper or smoked paprika – 1/4 teaspoon (for spicy variation)
- Herbs (dried oregano, basil, thyme) – 1 teaspoon combined (for herb variation)
- Nutritional yeast – 1/4 cup (for vegan alternative to Parmesan)
- Almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs – 1/4 cup (as gluten-free alternative to panko)
- Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon (for garnish, optional)
- Prepare the Zucchini: Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and slice them into thin, even rounds about 1/8 inch thick to ensure crispiness.
- Salt and Drain: Lay the zucchini slices on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt to draw out excess moisture, let them rest for about 15 minutes, then pat them dry thoroughly.
- Season the Coating: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, salt, and optionally panko breadcrumbs or your chosen seasoning mix to create the coating.
- Coat the Zucchini: Gently toss the zucchini slices in the prepared mixture, ensuring each slice is evenly coated for uniform taste and crunch.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the coated slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they don’t overlap. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through baking for even crispiness.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once baked to a golden crisp, remove from the oven and let the chips cool slightly to firm up before serving.
Notes
- Slice zucchini thinly and evenly to ensure even baking and a perfect crunch.
- Drain excess moisture well by salting and resting to prevent sogginess.
- Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to avoid sticking and ease cleanup.
- Flip the slices halfway through baking for an even crisp finish on both sides.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; give slices space to crisp properly instead of steaming.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; best eaten fresh for maximum crispiness.
- Freezing is not recommended as it can cause sogginess when thawed.
- To reheat, place chips in a hot oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 7mg
Keywords: zucchini chips, healthy snack, baked zucchini, crispy vegetable chips, gluten-free snack, low calorie snack, veggie chips, easy appetizer