This Crispy Zucchini Chips recipe is a delicious, guilt-free snack or side dish that’s light, crunchy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a healthy alternative to potato chips or a new way to enjoy garden-fresh zucchini, these baked or air-fried chips are sure to satisfy. They’re easy to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis (about 400g), thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ½ cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup (60g) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• Optional: 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or paprika for extra flavor

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F) or set air fryer to 200°C (390°F).

2. Slice zucchini into thin, even rounds using a mandoline or sharp knife.

3. Pat slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

4. In a bowl, toss zucchini with olive oil until evenly coated.

5. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional spices.

6. Dredge each zucchini slice in the crumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

7. Arrange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment or in the air fryer basket.

8. Bake for 20–25 minutes or air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

9. Let cool slightly before serving. Serve with dipping sauce if desired.

Nutrients (Per Serving – Approx. 1 cup)

• Calories: 150

• Protein: 5g

• Carbohydrates: 14g

• Fat: 9g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sodium: 310mg

• Calcium: 90mg

• Iron: 1mg

About This Recipe

Crispy Zucchini Chips are a healthier, tastier option for those who crave a crunchy snack without all the excess fat and calories of traditional chips. Zucchini, with its mild flavor and high water content, becomes wonderfully crisp and flavorful when thinly sliced and coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan. This recipe is great for summer months when zucchini is abundant, and it’s an excellent way to introduce vegetables into your diet in a fun, satisfying form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chips are incredibly simple to make and can be baked or air-fried for a lighter option. The recipe is also highly customizable, allowing you to adjust seasonings to suit your preferences. Kids love them, picky eaters enjoy them, and they’re great for parties, lunchboxes, or movie nights. Plus, they pair well with a variety of dips, from classic marinara to creamy ranch.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Zucchini chips draw inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine, where zucchini is frequently used in grilled, baked, and fried forms. This recipe modernizes the traditional concept by turning the humble squash into a snack-worthy chip using healthier cooking methods like baking and air frying. It’s a creative twist on the classic veggie chip trend, combining American snack culture with Mediterranean simplicity and freshness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They may lose their crispness slightly but can be reheated in an oven or air fryer for 3–5 minutes to restore crunch. Avoid refrigerating them, as moisture will make them soggy.

Common Variations to Try

For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast to make them dairy-free and vegan. For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix. To enhance the crunch, use panko instead of regular breadcrumbs. You can also mix in sesame seeds or finely chopped nuts for texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Crispy zucchini chips are perfect on their own but taste even better with dips like garlic yogurt sauce, tzatziki, hummus, or even a tangy balsamic reduction. They make an excellent appetizer with cocktails or a healthy side to sandwiches, grilled meats, or Mediterranean grain bowls.

Health Benefits

Zucchini is low in calories and high in antioxidants, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, which are good for eye health. It’s also rich in fiber, promoting healthy digestion. Baking or air frying reduces the oil content, making these chips a heart-healthy choice. The inclusion of Parmesan cheese adds calcium and protein, while olive oil contributes heart-friendly fats.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these without breadcrumbs?
Yes, use almond flour, crushed cornflakes, or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb or gluten-free alternative.

2. Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, the peel is tender and adds extra nutrients and texture.

3. Can I freeze zucchini chips?
It’s not recommended, as they lose their crispness upon thawing.

4. How do I slice the zucchini evenly?
Use a mandoline for uniform, thin slices that ensure even crisping.

5. Can I make these chips in advance?
They’re best fresh, but you can prep the slices and crumb coating ahead and bake just before serving.

6. What can I use instead of Parmesan?
Try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option or finely grated Pecorino Romano.

7. How do I make them crispier?
Pat the zucchini slices dry, slice them thin, and avoid overcrowding the tray or basket.

8. What dipping sauces work well?
Ranch, tzatziki, garlic aioli, and marinara are all excellent choices.

9. Can I use yellow squash instead?
Yes! Yellow squash works similarly and gives a slightly different flavor.

10. Are these chips keto-friendly?
With the right low-carb coating (like almond flour or pork rinds), yes, they can be made keto-friendly.

Conclusion

Crispy Zucchini Chips are a simple, flavorful, and versatile snack or side dish that makes eating vegetables enjoyable. Whether you’re seeking a healthier chip alternative, a creative appetizer, or a fun way to use up extra zucchini, this recipe delivers on taste and texture. With endless variations and health benefits, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Try them once, and you might never look at zucchini the same way again!