Baked Parmesan Zucchini Chips

Baked Parmesan Zucchini Chips: A Crispy, Cheesy, and Healthy Snack! 🧀🌿😋

1. Introduction

Looking for a healthy and delicious snack option that won’t leave you feeling guilty? These baked zucchini chips are the perfect solution! This recipe for parmesan zucchini chips takes simple, everyday zucchini and transforms it into a flavorful and satisfying treat that even the kids will love. Forget about those greasy potato chips loaded with unhealthy fats – these crispy zucchini chips are oven baked to golden perfection, offering a guilt-free and surprisingly addictive way to enjoy a crunchy snack.

This article will guide you through each and every step, providing helpful tips and tricks to ensure your baked zucchini chips turn out perfectly crispy and delicious every single time. Get ready to enjoy the delightful combination of tender zucchini, savory parmesan cheese, and a wonderfully crispy coating. These homemade parmesan zucchini chips are not only a fantastic way to sneak in extra vegetables into your daily diet, but they are also sure to become a new family favorite for snack time, movie nights, or even as a unique appetizer at your next gathering! Looking for more healthy snack ideas? Check out these incredible snack recipes!

2. Ingredients Needed

Before you begin, make sure you have all of your ingredients ready to go. Here’s what you’ll need for these amazing baked zucchini chips:

• 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced. Use zucchinis that are firm and free from blemishes for the best results.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan will offer the most flavor, but pre-grated works in a pinch.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs work great). Panko breadcrumbs provide a superior crispness compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• 1 large egg, beaten. This acts as a binder for the parmesan mixture to adhere to the zucchini slices.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil. A good quality olive oil will enhance the flavor and help the chips crisp up beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano. Adds a touch of Italian flavor that complements the parmesan perfectly.
• Salt and pepper to taste. Season generously to bring out the natural flavors of the zucchini and cheese.

3. Equipment Required

Having the right equipment on hand will make the process of making these zucchini chips much smoother and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Baking sheet. A large baking sheet allows you to bake all the chips in a single batch.
• Parchment paper. This prevents the chips from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Shallow dish for egg wash. A shallow dish makes it easy to dip the zucchini slices in the beaten egg.
• Another shallow dish for parmesan mixture. Another shallow dish is perfect for coating the zucchini slices in the parmesan mixture.
• Knife or mandoline for slicing zucchini. A mandoline ensures uniform thickness, which is essential for even baking and crispy chips. If you’re looking for other great recipe ideas, check out this recipe for a Chopped Cobb Salad!

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Now for the fun part! Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create your own batch of delectable baked parmesan zucchini chips:

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Begin by washing and thinly slicing the zucchinis. Aim for slices that are about 1/4 inch thick. Using a mandoline can help ensure uniform thickness for even cooking. Lay the zucchini slices on a paper towel-lined baking sheet and sprinkle generously with salt. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step is absolutely crucial for achieving those perfectly crispy zucchini chips we’re after! The salt helps to draw out the water, preventing the chips from becoming soggy in the oven.

Step 2: Mix the Parmesan Coating

In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Mix well with a fork or whisk to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This flavorful mixture will give your baked zucchini chips their irresistible, cheesy flavor and satisfying crunch. Season generously with pepper to taste, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat!

Step 3: Coat the Zucchini Slices

Now comes the fun part – coating the zucchini slices! Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels to remove any remaining moisture that the salt has drawn out. This is an important step to ensure maximum crispiness. Dip each slice into the beaten egg, ensuring it is fully coated on both sides. The egg acts as a binding agent, helping the parmesan mixture to adhere to the zucchini. Then, immediately dredge the zucchini slice in the prepared Parmesan cheese mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere properly. Make sure both sides are thoroughly well coated for maximum flavor, texture, and crispiness in every single bite! Ever tried our Healthy Chicken Pad Thai?

Step 4: Bake the Zucchini Chips

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is preheating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the coated zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Giving them enough space ensures that they will crisp up nicely. Drizzle a little olive oil lightly over the top of the chips; this will help them to achieve that perfect golden-brown color and crispy texture. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the parmesan zucchini chips are beautifully golden brown and deliciously crispy. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent any burning. Every oven is different, so adjust the baking time as needed.

5. Tips for the Best Baked Zucchini Chips

Want to take your baked zucchini chips to the next level? Here are a few essential tips and tricks to ensure perfectly crispy and flavorful results every time:

• Slice Evenly: This is arguably the most important step! Ensure that your zucchini slices are uniform in thickness for even baking. Using a mandoline slicer is highly recommended for achieving perfectly even slices.
• Remove Moisture: As mentioned earlier, salting the zucchini slices and patting them dry with paper towels is absolutely crucial for achieving ultimate crispiness. Don’t skip this step!
• Don’t Overcrowd: Resist the urge to overcrowd the baking sheet. Arrange the zucchini chips in a single layer, leaving a little bit of space between each chip. This allows for proper air circulation, which is essential for achieving crispiness.
• Watch Carefully: Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the baked zucchini chips during the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from burning.
• Add Spices: Get creative and experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor of your parmesan zucchini chips. Consider adding a pinch of paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, or even some onion powder to the parmesan mixture.

6. Variations

Looking to mix things up a bit? Here are a few variations to try:

• Spicy Zucchini Chips: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the Parmesan mixture for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Zucchini Chips: For a vegan-friendly version, use a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of the chicken egg.
• Air Fryer Zucchini Chips: These chips can also be made in an air fryer for extra crispiness and a slightly faster cooking time. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. If you’re in the mood for other healthy options, why not try a Spinach Mushroom Omelet? You can thank me later.

7. Serving Suggestions

These crispy zucchini chips are best served immediately after baking, while they are still warm and at their peak of crispiness. They make a fantastic appetizer for parties, a healthy and satisfying snack for any time of day, or a unique and flavorful side dish to accompany your favorite meal. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as classic ranch dressing, warm marinara sauce, a creamy garlic dip, or even a tangy Greek yogurt-based dip. Kids and adults alike will absolutely love this tasty and nutritious snack! If you’re looking for something different, grilled zucchini boats might be just the ticket!

8. Nutritional Information

Here’s a general idea of the nutritional information per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 6g

These oven baked zucchini chips are a much healthier alternative to traditional potato chips, offering a good source of vitamins and minerals from the zucchini itself, as well as a boost of protein from the Parmesan cheese. They are also lower in carbohydrates and unhealthy fats compared to many other snack options, making them a guilt-free choice for those watching their weight or simply trying to eat healthier.

9. Conclusion

These baked parmesan zucchini chips are a truly delightful and healthy snack option that’s incredibly easy to make and enjoyable for people of all ages. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you can transform ordinary zucchini into a crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible treat. Whether you’re searching for a guilt-free snack to satisfy your cravings or a creative way to sneak more vegetables into your diet, this recipe is definitely a winner. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and savory flavor of these delicious parmesan zucchini chips! They’re guaranteed to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen, perfect for any occasion. Be sure to check out this similar recipe at Food Network! So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to start baking these amazing oven baked zucchini chips today! Don’t forget to explore our other delicious and healthy recipes at MealsMom.com for even more culinary inspiration. If you liked this roasted recipe, be sure to check out our tag Roasted Recipes.

Print