Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a healthier alternative to fried snacks, requiring minimal oil.
- Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
- Perfectly crispy and packed with flavor from Parmesan and spices.
- A versatile dish that works as a snack, appetizer, or side.
- Kid-friendly and a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray
Directions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Slice zucchinis thinly into rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. Pat the slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Lightly spray both sides of the zucchini slices with olive oil spray.
- Press each zucchini slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Arrange the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overlap the slices to ensure even cooking.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 4 people as a snack or side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for some heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
- Cheese-Free: Omit the Parmesan cheese and add nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
- Herb Flavor: Add dried Italian herbs or smoked paprika for additional flavor.
- Vegan Alternative: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with a plant-based cheese or more nutritional yeast.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover zucchini chips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the chips soggy.
FAQs
How do I prevent the zucchini chips from getting soggy?
Pat the zucchini slices dry before coating them to remove excess moisture, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Can I bake these zucchini chips instead of air-frying?
Yes, bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Absolutely! Yellow squash works just as well and adds a slightly sweeter flavor.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, the skin is edible and adds a nice texture. Just make sure to wash the zucchini thoroughly.
Can I make these ahead of time?
These are best enjoyed fresh, but you can coat the zucchini slices ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before air-frying.
What dipping sauces pair well with zucchini chips?
Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or garlic aioli are great options for dipping.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crunchier texture.
Why are my chips not crispy?
Ensure you’re not overcrowding the air fryer and flip the chips halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
Can I freeze zucchini chips?
These chips are not ideal for freezing, as they can become soggy upon reheating.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Not as written, due to the breadcrumbs. To make it keto-friendly, substitute with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
Conclusion
Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips are a quick, healthy, and flavorful snack that’s sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and an air fryer, you can create this crunchy treat that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them plain, dipped, or seasoned with your favorite spices, these zucchini chips are a must-try for any occasion. Give them a go, and watch them disappear in minutes!
Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips are a quick, healthy snack or side dish that’s irresistibly crunchy. Made with zucchini slices coated in a Parmesan-panko mix, this recipe is a lighter, flavorful alternative to fried snacks.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Slice zucchini into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick, and pat dry with paper towels.
- Lightly spray both sides of the zucchini slices with olive oil spray.
- Press each zucchini slice into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Arrange coated slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- To prevent sogginess, pat the zucchini slices dry before coating.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer for even cooking.
- Best served fresh for maximum crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
