These Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips are crispy, cheesy, and super easy to make! You just slice the zucchini, season it with garlic and Parmesan, then bake until golden.
They make a great snack or side dish, especially when you need something light but tasty. I always find myself reaching for a second helping—who can resist that crunchy goodness? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the dish! Look for firm, shiny zucchinis. If you don’t have zucchini, yellow squash works well, too.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice flavor and crispiness. If you’re dairy-free, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Panko Breadcrumbs: I love using panko for extra crunch! If you only have regular breadcrumbs, that’s fine, but the texture might be a bit different. You could also crush up some crackers or use cornflakes as a crunchy topping.
Garlic Powder: This adds flavor without the hassle of minced garlic. If you prefer fresh garlic, use minced garlic but be cautious as it can burn easily in the oven.
How Do You Ensure Your Zucchini Chips Are Crispy?
The key to crispy zucchini chips lies in moisture control and even coating. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Slice zucchini evenly, about 1/4 inch thick, to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Pat the slices dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them crisp up better.
- Coat the zucchini slices well with egg and the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly for better adhesion.
- A light drizzle of olive oil on top gives an extra crisp when baking.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; give the chips some space to allow even air circulation.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with deliciously crispy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips!
Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chips:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and simple way to enjoy a crispy snack that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil. This will help ensure your chips don’t stick and get nice and crispy.
2. Slice the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchinis and slice them into rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Keeping the thickness consistent helps them cook evenly and get crispy.
3. Whisk the Eggs:
In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs together until they’re well mixed. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the zucchini slices.
4. Make the Coating:
In another bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley (if you’re using it). Mix everything together until evenly combined.
5. Coat the Zucchini:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it into the egg wash, making sure to coat it well. Then dredge it in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure the coating sticks to the zucchini slice.
6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the coated zucchini slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, without overlapping them. This allows them to crisp up nicely in the oven.
7. Add a Touch of Oil:
Lightly spray or drizzle a little olive oil on top of each chip to help them crisp up as they bake.
8. Bake the Chips:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to flip the chips halfway through for even browning until they are golden brown and crispy.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will help them crisp up even more. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or garlic aioli, for the perfect snack!
Enjoy your delicious and crispy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan gives a great flavor, you can substitute with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or aged Gouda for a different taste. Just make sure to adjust the quantity based on your preference!
Can I Prepare the Zucchini Chips in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the zucchini slices and coat them with the breadcrumb mixture ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them for up to a few hours before baking. This way, you’ll have an easy snack ready to pop in the oven when you want!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat them in an oven or air fryer to recapture their crispness instead of using a microwave.
What Other Seasonings Can I Use?
You can definitely customize the flavor! Try adding spices like paprika, cayenne pepper for heat, or Italian seasoning for a herby touch. Feel free to get creative with your favorite flavors!
