These crispy baked zucchini chips are a fun and healthy snack! Made with thinly sliced zucchini, a sprinkle of seasoning, and baked until golden, they are super crunchy.
They’re perfect for munching while watching your favorite show. I love dipping them in salsa or hummus—they just give regular chips a run for their money! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for this recipe. You can substitute yellow squash for a similar texture. If you’re looking for something different, try sweet potatoes or carrots, although cooking times will vary.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps with crispiness. You can use avocado oil or coconut oil if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the flavor; coconut oil will impart a sweetness.
Seasonings: Salt and pepper are must-haves, but feel free to play with spices! Try Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper for heat, or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. It’s really about your taste!
Fresh Rosemary: Fresh herbs add an aromatic touch. You could also use dried herbs instead, just reduce the amount since they’re more concentrated.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Crisp Zucchini Chips?
Getting crispy zucchini chips is all about moisture control and low, slow baking. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Slice the zucchini thinly, about 1/8 inch thick for best results.
- Dry the slices with a clean towel before coating with oil. This helps to remove excess moisture.
- Arrange the slices in a single layer without overlapping, which is crucial for crispiness.
- Keep the oven at a low temperature (about 225°F) to ensure they dry out while baking, rather than roasting.
- Check for crispiness after about 1.5 hours, and if they’re still soft, give them more time!
Following these steps will help you achieve that perfect crunch every time! Enjoy your chips, and don’t be surprised if they disappear quickly!
How to Make Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for prep and about 1.5 to 2 hours for baking. So, you’ll be enjoying your crispy zucchini chips in about 2 to 2.5 hours total. Perfect for a laid-back afternoon snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 225°F (110°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help the chips not to stick and make cleanup easier later!
2. Slice the Zucchini:
Using a mandoline slicer (if you have one) or a sharp knife, slice the zucchinis into thin, even rounds. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick—this helps them crisp up nicely.
3. Coat with Olive Oil:
Place the zucchini slices in a large bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Toss them gently with your hands or a spoon to ensure they’re evenly coated.
4. Add Seasoning:
Next, sprinkle salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder over the zucchini slices. Toss again to distribute the seasoning evenly over the slices.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Now, arrange the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. It’s important they don’t overlap; otherwise, they might not crisp up correctly!
6. Bake Until Crispy:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Halfway through, flip the zucchini slices so they bake evenly. Keep an eye on them as the time goes on; they should be golden brown and crispy!
7. Remove and Garnish:
Once they’re crispy, take the baking sheet out of the oven and carefully transfer the zucchini chips to a serving bowl. If you’d like, add fresh rosemary sprigs for a nice touch.
8. Cool Down:
Let the chips cool for a few minutes before serving. They’ll crisp up even more during this time, making them even more delightful!
Enjoy your light, crunchy, and healthy crispy baked zucchini chips! Perfect solo or with your favorite dip. Happy snacking!
FAQs About Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
Can I Use Other Vegetables for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with other vegetables like eggplant, sweet potatoes, or even thinly sliced carrots. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since different vegetables may bake at varying rates.
What Should I Do if My Zucchini Chips Won’t Get Crispy?
If your chips aren’t turning crispy, here are a few tips: ensure they are sliced evenly and thinly, as thicker slices take longer to crisp. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer without overlap, and try lowering the oven temperature slightly while increasing the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store any leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispness, try placing a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture.
Can I Reheat Zucchini Chips?
Yes, you can reheat them! Simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crunch. Avoid microwaving them, as this will make them soggy.
