Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Zucchinis: Fresh, medium-sized zucchinis are the base of this recipe, providing a healthy and low-calorie snack.

Breadcrumbs: These give the chips a crispy coating. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your preference.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, savory flavor to the coating. Grated parmesan works best for even distribution.

Garlic powder: Enhances the flavor with a subtle garlic taste.

Onion powder: Adds a mild onion flavor that complements the other seasonings.

Salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning mix.

Egg: Acts as a binding agent to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the zucchini slices.

Cooking spray: Helps to crisp up the zucchini chips in the air fryer without adding extra calories.

When slicing the zucchinis, aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent slices, which is crucial for getting that perfect crispy texture in the air fryer.

• zucchinis - Substitute with yellow squash: Yellow squash has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a great alternative for zucchini chips.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes add a crunchy texture and can be a gluten-free option if needed.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with grated pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and nutty flavor profile, making it a good alternative.

• grated parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a great vegan alternative.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Finely chopped onions provide a fresh and slightly sweet flavor, similar to onion powder.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a cleaner taste and can enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used if you prefer a less pungent taste.

• large egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water) is a great vegan alternative and helps bind the ingredients.

• cooking spray - Substitute with olive oil spray: Olive oil spray provides a similar non-stick effect while adding a hint of flavor.

• Allow the zucchini chips to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Transfer the cooled chips to an airtight container. A glass container or a resealable plastic bag works well.
• Place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture. This helps maintain their crispiness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the chips within 2-3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.
• To freeze, lay the zucchini chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the chips to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to eat, reheat the chips in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness.
• Avoid microwaving the chips as it can make them soggy. The air fryer is the best method for reheating.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place the leftover zucchini chips in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 3-5 minutes until they regain their crispiness.

• Use an oven: Preheat to 375°F. Spread the zucchini chips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to avoid over-browning.

• For a quick fix, use a microwave: Place the zucchini chips on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds. Note that this method may not retain the original crispiness.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 375°F. Arrange the zucchini chips in a single layer on the tray. Toast for 5-7 minutes until they are heated through and crispy.

• For those with a convection oven, preheat to 350°F. Place the zucchini chips on a baking rack set over a baking sheet. Heat for 5-7 minutes, ensuring even airflow around the chips for optimal crispiness.

• Knife: to slice the zucchinis into thin rounds

• Cutting board: to provide a stable surface for slicing the zucchinis

• Mixing bowl: to mix the breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper

• Mixing bowl: to beat the egg

• Whisk: to beat the egg until smooth

• Air fryer: to cook the zucchini chips until they are crispy

• Cooking spray: to lightly coat the zucchini slices before air frying

• Tongs: to place the zucchini slices in the air fryer basket and to remove them once cooked

• Measuring cups: to measure the breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese

• Measuring spoons: to measure the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper

Use a mandoline: Slice the zucchinis quickly and evenly with a mandoline for uniform chips.

Pre-mix dry ingredients: Combine breadcrumbs, parmesan, and spices in advance to save time during preparation.

Batch process: Dip all zucchini slices in egg and coat with the breadcrumb mixture before placing them in the air fryer.

Single layer: Ensure zucchini chips are in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even cooking.

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F to reduce cooking time and achieve a crispy texture faster.