These Easy Baked Zucchini Chips are a crunchy snack that are both tasty and healthy! Just slice zucchini, season, and bake until crispy. Yum!
I love snacking on these guilt-free chips while binge-watching my favorite shows. They’re so light, I can eat a whole batch without feeling bad! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Zucchini is the star here! You can use green or golden zucchini. For a twist, sweet potatoes also make fantastic chips. Just slice them thinly and follow the same baking instructions!
Olive oil: This adds flavor and helps achieve that crisp texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using cooking spray instead.
Garlic powder: A must for flavor! You can swap it with onion powder or even fresh minced garlic if you prefer. Just remember that fresh garlic can burn more easily during baking.
Smoked paprika: This is optional but gives a nice depth. If you don’t have it, a dash of chili powder or even a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can add a kick!
How Do I Get My Zucchini Chips Extra Crispy?
To make sure your zucchini chips come out super crispy, the thickness of your slices is key! Aim for about 1/8 inch thick and try to keep them all uniform, as this helps with even cooking.
- Preheat your oven at a low temperature of 225°F. This slow bake helps remove moisture from the zucchini.
- Arrange the slices in a single layer on your baking sheets, avoiding overlapping to help them crisp without steaming.
- Flip the chips halfway through baking. This ensures that both sides get equally crispy.
- Let them cool on a wire rack. This is important—cooling will give them that final crunch!
With a bit of care in preparation, your zucchini chips will be a hit and satisfy that crunch craving in a healthy way!
Easy Baked Zucchini Chips – Crispy & Healthy Snack
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chips:
- 2 medium zucchini (green or golden/orange variety), thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then 1.5 – 2 hours to bake, during which time you can relax and enjoy the delicious smell filling your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 225°F (110°C). This low temperature is perfect for slowly crisping the zucchini without burning it. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchini thoroughly, then slice them into very thin rounds—aim for about 1/8 inch thick. If you have a mandoline slicer, it can help ensure all slices are uniform for even baking.
3. Season the Slices:
Place the zucchini slices in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Toss everything gently to make sure each slice is coated evenly with the oil and seasonings.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheets:
Lay the zucchini slices out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Make sure they’re not overlapping to allow them to cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheets in the oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping the chips halfway through to ensure they brown evenly. Keep an eye on them in the last half hour; you want them golden and crispy!
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven. Let the chips cool completely on a wire rack; they will become even crispier as they cool. If desired, garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for a lovely aroma and appearance.
7. Enjoy or Store:
Serve your zucchini chips right away for the best crunch! If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Perfect for snacking anytime!
And if you’re inspired by the orange chips in the picture, feel free to substitute zucchini with sweet potatoes or golden zucchini while following the same steps for a colorful twist!
Enjoy your delicious, healthy snack!
FAQ for Easy Baked Zucchini Chips
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can substitute zucchini with other vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or eggplant. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since different vegetables may require more or less time to crisp up.
How Do I Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store any leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If they start to lose their crispiness, you can re-crisp them in a warm oven for a few minutes.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No problem! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can leave it out or use regular paprika, cayenne pepper, or even chili powder for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the quantity based on your spice preference!
Can I Make These in an Air Fryer?
Yes! To make zucchini chips in an air fryer, follow the same coating instructions and arrange the chips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
