Ingredients
To make these crispy zucchini chips, you only need a few pantry staples and fresh zucchini. Here’s the full list of ingredients:
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2 medium zucchini
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2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
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½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for added crunch)
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¼ teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon onion powder
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¼ teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
Instructions
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer
If you’re baking, preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C). For air frying, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Slice the Zucchini Thin
Use a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife to cut the zucchini into uniform, thin slices (about 1/8 inch or less). The thinner the slices, the crispier the chips will be.
Step 3: Dry the Zucchini
Place the zucchini slices on a clean paper towel. Lightly sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 10–15 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture. Afterward, blot them dry with another towel to ensure crispiness.
Step 4: Coat with Seasoning
In a mixing bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil until evenly coated. Then add Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss again until all slices are lightly coated with the mixture.
Step 5: Arrange and Bake or Air Fry
For oven-baked chips:
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Lay the zucchini slices in a single layer without overlapping.
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Bake for 90–120 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chips are golden brown and crisp.
For air-fried chips:
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Place slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
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Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Watch carefully toward the end—zucchini chips can go from crispy to burnt quickly.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove chips from the oven or air fryer and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This allows them to firm up even more. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.