Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Chips Recipe – Crispy, Healthy, and Delicious!

Zucchini chips are a healthy, crispy, and incredibly tasty snack or side dish that will satisfy any craving for something crunchy. When you combine fresh, thinly sliced zucchini with a delicious, crispy Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, the result is nothing short of mouthwatering. These Parmesan crusted zucchini chips are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a guilt-free snack or an addition to any meal. So, if you’re looking for a healthier alternative to regular chips or fries, look no further—this recipe is your new favorite!

In this post, I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know to make Parmesan crusted zucchini chips from start to finish. You’ll get step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and all the reasons why this recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Let’s dive in!

Why Make Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Chips?

When you think of chips, you probably think of those greasy, fried snacks that are packed with unhealthy fats and empty calories. But Parmesan crusted zucchini chips offer a healthy twist on this beloved snack. Zucchini is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable that provides a ton of health benefits. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make crispy zucchini chips that satisfy your cravings without the guilt.

Here are just a few reasons to love Parmesan crusted zucchini chips:

• Low in Calories: Zucchini is naturally low in calories, making this dish a great option if you’re looking to cut down on your calorie intake.
• Packed with Nutrients: Zucchini is rich in vitamins and minerals like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can easily swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, making this dish accessible to everyone.
• Quick and Easy: It takes just about 30 minutes to make these crispy chips from start to finish, so you can enjoy a quick and satisfying snack without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Chips 🧑‍🍳

Before we get started with the instructions, let’s go over everything you need to make this recipe:

For the Zucchini Chips:

• 2 medium zucchinis – Zucchini is the main ingredient for this recipe, providing a fresh and mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy coating.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – The Parmesan adds a savory, salty, and cheesy flavor that enhances the taste of the zucchini.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular) – The breadcrumbs give the zucchini chips their crispy texture. You can choose panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy crunch.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder adds a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the savory Parmesan.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – The onion powder brings out the savory goodness of the dish and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – Dried oregano is an herb that works wonders in savory dishes, giving your zucchini chips an Italian touch.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Salt enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Black pepper adds just a bit of heat to balance the richness of the Parmesan.
• 1 large egg – The egg is used to coat the zucchini slices and help the breading adhere properly.
• Olive oil spray (or any cooking spray) – A light spray of oil will help the zucchini chips crisp up in the oven.

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Zucchini Chips: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these Parmesan crusted zucchini chips is so simple, and you’ll love how easy it is to create this crispy, savory snack from scratch. Just follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have perfectly crispy zucchini chips in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking zucchini chips to ensure they become golden brown and crispy. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray to prevent the chips from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

Next, wash and slice the zucchinis into thin rounds (about 1/4-inch thick). Be sure to pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is important because it helps the zucchini crisp up nicely while baking. Moisture can make the chips soggy, so take the extra minute to dry them properly.

Step 3: Make the Breading Mixture

In a shallow bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This mixture will form the delicious crispy crust for your zucchini chips, so make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Wash

In another shallow bowl, whisk the egg until well beaten. The egg wash will help the breading stick to the zucchini slices and create that perfectly crispy coating.

Step 5: Coat the Zucchini Slices

Now, take each zucchini slice and dip it into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, immediately dip the zucchini into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. Make sure each zucchini slice is well-coated for that crunchy texture.

Step 6: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Place the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Be sure that the slices do not overlap, as this can prevent them from cooking evenly. For the crispiest result, keep the slices spaced apart.

Step 7: Spray with Olive Oil

Lightly spray the zucchini chips with olive oil or any cooking spray of your choice. The olive oil will help them crisp up in the oven and give them a beautiful golden color. You don’t need to use too much; just a light coating will do.

Step 8: Bake the Zucchini Chips

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping the zucchini chips halfway through. Keep a close eye on them as they bake; they should turn golden brown and crispy. If you like them extra crispy, you can bake them a bit longer.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Once the Parmesan crusted zucchini chips are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm, and if you like, you can garnish them with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. For dipping, consider serving them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy snack!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
   • While fresh zucchini works best, you can use frozen zucchini. However, it’s important to thaw and drain the zucchini slices thoroughly to avoid sogginess. Fresh zucchini will yield the best texture and flavor.
2. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
   • Yes, regular breadcrumbs work just fine. Panko breadcrumbs are typically lighter and crispier, but regular breadcrumbs will still give you a delicious, crispy coating.
3. Can I make these zucchini chips in an air fryer?
   • Absolutely! To make Parmesan crusted zucchini chips in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 400°F and cook the chips in a single layer for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll get a wonderfully crispy result.
4. Can I make these zucchini chips ahead of time?
   • You can prep the zucchini chips ahead of time by breading them and storing them in the fridge for a few hours. However, it’s best to bake them just before serving to maintain their crispy texture.
5. Can I make these zucchini chips gluten-free?
   • Yes! Simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’ll have a gluten-free version of these tasty zucchini chips.

Conclusion

These Parmesan crusted zucchini chips are a delicious and healthy snack or side dish that everyone will love. With a crispy, golden crust and a rich Parmesan flavor, these zucchini chips are sure to become a favorite in your household. They’re simple to make, customizable to your tastes, and a great way to enjoy the goodness of zucchini in a fun and flavorful way.

Whether you’re serving them at a party, as a snack, or as a side dish for dinner, these crispy Parmesan crusted zucchini chips are always a hit. Enjoy!

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