Crispy Zucchini Chips for Holiday Snacking

Ready in: 2 hours 30 minutes · Serves: 6-8 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Airtight container for up to 3 days.

Quick Answer

These crispy zucchini chips make a delightful, healthy snack perfect for holiday gatherings.

As the vibrant colors of fall begin to grace the streets of New York City, it’s that sweater-weather season that invites many of us to gather with loved ones. The hustle and bustle of the holiday season are just around the corner, and with Thanksgiving and Christmas fast approaching, I find myself on the hunt for the perfect snacks to share at festive gatherings. These crispy zucchini chips are not only a delightful treat but also a healthier alternative to the traditional holiday fare. Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one!

A Healthy Holiday Snack

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier alternative to traditional snacks that everyone will enjoy.
• Simple ingredients that yield an irresistible crunch.
• Perfect for gatherings, adding a festive touch to your table.
• Versatile seasoning options allow for creativity.
• Easy preparation and cleanup make this a stress-free recipe.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful and crispy snack:

Zucchini and Coating

• 2 medium zucchini (fresh, firm)
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (high-quality)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray or melted butter

How to Make Crispy Zucchini Chips (Step-by-Step)

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect crispy zucchini chips:

Step 1: Prep the Zucchini

Start by preheating your oven to 225°F (110°C). Wash and dry the zucchini thoroughly, then slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. I always use a mandoline slicer to achieve even cuts that help them crisp up nicely.

Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture

To ensure the best crunch, place the zucchini slices on a clean dish towel. Sprinkle them with a little salt and let them rest for 30 minutes. You’ll see beads of moisture forming—this is what you want! The salt draws out water and concentrates the flavors.

Step 3: Coating Time

In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. After the zucchini slices have rested, pat them dry gently with another towel. Dip each slice first into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the coated zucchini rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re not overcrowded for maximum crispiness. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil or melted butter for that golden, crunchy finish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 2 hours, flipping them halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy. The nutty aroma of zucchini chips filling your kitchen will have your guests eagerly anticipating snack time.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once done, let the chips cool for a few minutes on the sheet before transferring them to a serving platter. They’ll continue to crisp up as they cool, creating the perfect snack for your holiday parties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the salt step: Don’t skip salting the zucchini to draw out moisture. It’s essential for that satisfying crunch.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Give your zucchini slices some space. They need room for air to circulate and crisp up.
• Not monitoring baking time: Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary. The first batch is the perfect opportunity to adjust for your oven’s temperament.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Experiment with seasoning: Feel free to add herbs like oregano or thyme for a twist, or even go spicy with red pepper flakes.
• Try different breading: Instead of breadcrumbs, crushed nuts or seeds can make for a flavorful, gluten-free option.
• Utilize cooking methods: You can try air frying these chips for quicker results!

Variations

• Use different types of cheese: Experiment with cheddar or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Add spices: Incorporate cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for an herbaceous twist.
• Try sweet variations: Use grated Parmesan and cinnamon for a sweet-and-savory combo.

How to Serve

• Serve with a dip: Accompany chips with hummus, ranch dressing, or guacamole.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: Top with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch.
• Include in a snack board: Add zucchini chips to a charcuterie or snack board with other bite-sized treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the zucchini slices and coat them with the breadcrumb mixture a few hours before baking.
• Storage: Store leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
• Reheating: For the best crunch, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze these chips, as moisture will affect their crispness.

Recipe Notes / What I Learned

Through testing this recipe, I discovered how versatile zucchini can be when properly prepared. My biggest takeaway? A little patience in preparation leads to a wonderfully crunchy snack that can elevate any gathering, especially during those festive days ahead as we celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Yield and Serving Size

Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup

Nutrition Snapshot

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~150 calories · 5g protein · 18g carbs · 7g fat

Amberly Vahn

Crispy Zucchini Chips for Holiday Snacking

These crispy zucchini chips make a delightful, healthy snack perfect for holiday gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Group: Zucchini and Coating

• 2 medium zucchini, fresh, firm
• 1 cup breadcrumbs, preferably panko
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, high-quality
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray or melted butter

Equipment

• Oven
• Mandoline slicer
• Baking sheet Lined with parchment paper
• Dish towel

Method

 

1. Start by preheating your oven to 225°F (110°C). Wash and dry the zucchini thoroughly, then slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. I always use a mandoline slicer to achieve even cuts that help them crisp up nicely.
2. To ensure the best crunch, place the zucchini slices on a clean dish towel. Sprinkle them with a little salt and let them rest for 30 minutes. You’ll see beads of moisture forming—this is what you want! The salt draws out water and concentrates the flavors.
3. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. After the zucchini slices have rested, pat them dry gently with another towel. Dip each slice first into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated.
4. Place the coated zucchini rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re not overcrowded for maximum crispiness. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil or melted butter for that golden, crunchy finish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 2 hours, flipping them halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy. The nutty aroma of zucchini chips filling your kitchen will have your guests eagerly anticipating snack time.
5. Once done, let the chips cool for a few minutes on the sheet before transferring them to a serving platter. They’ll continue to crisp up as they cool, creating the perfect snack for your holiday parties.

Notes

Through testing this recipe, I discovered how versatile zucchini can be when properly prepared. My biggest takeaway? A little patience in preparation leads to a wonderfully crunchy snack that can elevate any gathering, especially during those festive days ahead as we celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas.

FAQs