These easy baked zucchini chips are crispy, healthy, and oh-so-tasty! Just slice the zucchini, season it, and bake until golden for a perfect snack.
I’ve often caught myself munching on these instead of regular chips! They are a great way to sneak in some veggies while still keeping things fun. Grab a dip, and you’re set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh, firm zucchinis work best. If zucchinis are unavailable, you can use yellow squash for a different flavor and color.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds great flavor, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, try using cooking spray or avocado oil instead.
Seasonings: Feel free to get creative! Instead of garlic powder, try onion powder or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also add cayenne for some heat.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary is lovely, but dried herbs like thyme or oregano can also work well. If you want a bold flavor, try adding Italian seasoning.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Zucchini Chips?
The secret to crispy zucchini chips is all in the slicing and baking process. Thin, even slices allow for even cooking and crisping. Here’s how to ensure you get it right:
- Use a mandoline slicer for consistent, thin slices—aim for about 1/8 inch thick.
- Toss well with oil and seasonings to ensure each chip gets flavor and prevents burning.
- Bake at a low temperature (225°F) for a longer time (1.5 to 2 hours) for that crunch!
- Turn the chips halfway through to ensure even crispiness on both sides.
- Let them cool completely on a wire rack; they will crisp up further as they cool.
Easy Baked Zucchini Chips
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (or fresh sprigs for garnish)
- Optional: smoked paprika or chili powder for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and about 1.5 to 2 hours to bake, making the total time around 2 hours and 15 minutes. It’s mostly hands-off time while the chips are baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 225°F (110°C). This low temperature helps to dry out the zucchini slices, giving you that crispy texture. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Zucchini:
Wash and dry the zucchinis. Using a mandoline slicer (for even slices) or a sharp knife, slice the zucchinis into rounds about 1/8 inch thick. The thinner the slices, the crispier your chips will be!
3. Season the Slices:
In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried rosemary. Make sure all the slices are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning for maximum flavor.
4. Arrange for Baking:
Lay the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Make sure they don’t overlap to ensure they all bake evenly.
5. Bake to Crunchy Perfection:
Bake the zucchini in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Turn the chips halfway through the baking time to help them crisp up on both sides. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary depending on your oven!
6. Cool Down:
Once done baking, remove the chips from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This cooling process helps them become even crispier.
7. Serve and Store:
Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if desired, and enjoy your delicious zucchini chips immediately! If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Note: If you’re inspired by the image and prefer sweet potato chips, feel free to substitute zucchinis with sweet potatoes and follow the same steps for a scrumptious alternative!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Vegetables for Chips?
Absolutely! While this recipe is for zucchini, you can use other vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or beets. Just slice them thinly and follow the same baking instructions for a different flavor experience!
How Do I Make the Chips Extra Crispy?
To achieve the crispiest chips, make sure your zucchini slices are uniformly thin (around 1/8 inch) and avoid overlapping them on the baking sheet. Baking at a low temperature for a longer time ensures they dry out perfectly!
Can I Prepare Them in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare and bake the zucchini chips in advance. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They’re great for snacking anytime!
What Should I Do If My Chips Start to Burn?
If you notice that your chips are browning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly and check on them more frequently. Turning them more often can also help ensure they cook evenly without burning.
