These crispy baked zucchini chips are a fun and healthy snack! With just a sprinkle of seasoning and a little time in the oven, you’ll have a tasty treat that’s crunchy and delicious.
I love munching on these while binge-watching my favorite shows. They make you feel good about snacking, and let’s be real, who doesn’t love a guilt-free crunch? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh medium zucchinis are perfect for this recipe. They’re low in calories and packed with nutrients. If you’re short on zucchini, try using yellow squash instead; they have a similar texture and flavor!
Olive Oil: This adds the perfect amount of richness. You can swap it with avocado oil if you want a higher smoke point or flavor variations. Just avoid oils with too much flavor that might overpower the zucchini.
Seasoning: I love adding garlic powder and paprika for extra flavor! If you’re looking to cut down on sodium, try using a salt substitute or just a little less salt. Feel free to get creative and add your favorite herbs too!
Fresh Rosemary: This is optional for garnish, but it gives a lovely aroma. If you don’t have rosemary, dried herbs like thyme or Italian seasoning can also add a nice touch.
How Do I Get My Zucchini Chips Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunch is key! Here are some tips to ensure your zucchini chips come out crispy:
- Slice the zucchini thinly, about 1/8 inch, for even cooking. Use a mandoline for best results.
- Make sure to coat them lightly with oil; too much can make them soggy.
- Arrange the slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Otherwise, they may steam instead of bake.
- Flipping them halfway through is crucial! This helps both sides get equally crispy.
- Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking—oven temperatures can vary, and you don’t want them burning.
Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips – Healthy Snack
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2-3 medium zucchinis
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 1.5 to 2 hours to bake, depending on your oven. Total time will be about 2 hours and 15 minutes, which includes prep and cooking time. A little patience goes a long way for that perfect crunchy snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 225°F (110°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis, then slice them very thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. A sharp knife works, but a mandoline slicer will give you even slices, ideal for uniform cooking.
3. Coat with Olive Oil:
Put the zucchini slices in a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over them and toss gently to coat each slice evenly. This oil helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
4. Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, garlic powder (if using), and paprika over the zucchini slices. Toss them again to distribute the seasoning evenly. The spices will enhance the flavor of the chips.
5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Lay the zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they do not overlap because overlapping will make them steam instead of crisping up.
6. Bake the Chips:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Remember to flip the slices halfway through to get them crispy on all sides. Keep an eye on them as they approach the end to prevent burning.
7. Cool Down:
Once done, take the chips out of the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet. They will continue to crisp up as they cool down, giving you that perfect crunchy texture!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
If you’d like, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a nice touch of flavor and presentation. Enjoy your crispy baked zucchini chips as a healthy snack anytime!
This recipe makes a delicious, crunchy treat that’s not only satisfying but also light on the calories, making it an excellent choice for healthy munching!
FAQ for Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips
Can I Use Other Vegetables for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While zucchini works great, you can try using other vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or even beets. Just remember that cooking times may vary—thicker slices will take longer to bake.
Can I Make These Chips Spicy?
Definitely! If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, avoid sealing them while they’re still warm, as this can create moisture.
What Should I Do If My Chips Turn Out Soggy?
If your chips are soggy, they might have been too thick, too much oil was used, or they overlapped on the baking sheet. Next time, aim for thinner slices, use just enough oil, and ensure they are in a single layer while baking for maximum crispiness.
