These easy baked zucchini chips are crispy, healthy, and oh-so-tasty! Just slice the zucchini, sprinkle some seasoning, and bake until they’re golden. It’s a snack you won’t feel guilty about!
I love how simple these chips are to whip up. They’re perfect for when I want something crunchy while watching my favorite show. Plus, my kids actually enjoy them, which is a win-win! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, medium zucchinis work best for crisp chips. If they’re hard to find, you could substitute with yellow squash or even eggplant for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and helps achieve that crispy texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil or even coconut oil can work, just remember they may change the flavor slightly.
Seasonings: I like using salt, pepper, and garlic powder for flavoring. Feel free to swap garlic for onion powder or try adding paprika for a smokier twist!
How Do I Get My Zucchini Chips Extra Crispy?
Getting zucchini chips to be wonderfully crispy requires some prep! Start by slicing the zucchini very thin, around 1/8 inch thick, as this is key to making them crunchy. Keep the slices uniform; a mandoline is perfect for this!
- Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C) for slower baking, which allows moisture to escape.
- Use just enough oil to lightly coat the zucchini; too much can lead to sogginess.
- Arrange the slices in a single layer without overlapping for even baking. This is crucial for achieving a perfect crunch.
- Flip the chips halfway through baking to make sure both sides crisp up nicely.
These tips will help you create perfectly crispy zucchini chips for snacking!
How to Make Easy Baked Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chips:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 1.5 to 2 hours of baking time. So, set aside about 2 hours and 20 minutes in total from start to finish. The result will be crispy and delicious zucchini chips that are easy to snack on!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 225°F (110°C). This low temperature is perfect for drying out the zucchini, making them nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis thoroughly under cold water. Then, slice them very thinly—aim for about 1/8 inch thick. Using a mandoline slicer can make this job easier and ensures even slices.
3. Season the Slices:
Place your zucchini slices in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the slices, then gently toss them with your hands to make sure each piece is coated evenly with the oil. Next, sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) over the zucchini, and toss again until they’re well-seasoned.
4. Arrange for Baking:
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Lay the zucchini slices out in a single layer on the sheets without overlapping them. This ensures they bake evenly and get crispy.
5. Bake the Chips:
Place the baking sheets in the oven and let them bake for 1.5 to 2 hours. Be sure to flip the chips halfway through to help them crisp up on both sides. Keep an eye on them towards the end to make sure they don’t burn.
6. Cooling and Garnishing:
Once the chips are golden and crispy, take them out of the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. If you’d like, garnish them with fresh rosemary or thyme for an extra flavor boost before serving.
7. Enjoy!
These baked zucchini chips are best enjoyed right away while they’re crisp. Serve them as a tasty snack or a side to your favorite dish!
Enjoy your crispy and healthy zucchini chips!
FAQ for Easy Baked Zucchini Chips
Can I Use Other Vegetables for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe is for zucchini, you can use other vegetables like sweet potatoes, beets, or carrots. Just adjust the baking time based on the thickness and type of vegetable to achieve that perfect crispiness.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For maximum freshness, keep them in a cool, dry place away from moisture. They tend to lose their crispness in the fridge!
Can I Make These Chips Spicy?
Yes! To add some heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder along with the other seasonings before baking. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
Why Are My Zucchini Chips Not Crispy?
If your chips aren’t turning out crispy, it could be due to thick slicing or overlapping on the baking sheet. Make sure to slice them thinly and arrange them in a single layer. Additionally, ensure you’re using low heat and allowing enough baking time to evaporate moisture.
Feel free to adjust or customize your chips with different seasonings or serve them with your favorite dip! Enjoy!
