Zucchini Chips in Air Fryer Recipe
If you’ve ever wished there was a simple, healthier way to satisfy your craving for something crispy and snackable, Zucchini Chips in Air Fryer is about to become your new obsession! These golden rounds are irresistibly crunchy on the outside, tender in the center, and bursting with savory Parmesan and spice. The beauty of air frying means you use hardly any oil, making these a fantastic guilt-free alternative to traditional chips. Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or even a clever side dish — they’re perfect any time you’re looking for that salty, crave-able crunch!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s so wonderful about this recipe is its simplicity: just a handful of everyday ingredients, each one bringing something unique to the table. Every element adds a little magic, from flavor to texture to those picture-perfect crispy edges!
- Zucchinis: Slice them thin for the crispiest chips — the fresher, the better!
- Olive Oil: Just a tablespoon helps everything get perfectly golden and prevents sticking.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a burst of savory, cheesy flavor and an extra layer of crunch.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkling brings subtle savory depth without overpowering the zucchini.
- Paprika: This gives your chips a hint of warmth and a lovely golden hue.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the natural flavors (don’t skip it!).
- Black Pepper: Rounds out the spices with a gentle kick.
- Cooking Spray: Keeps those chips from sticking to the basket and encourages crispiness.
How to Make Zucchini Chips in Air Fryer
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by setting your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), so it’s hot and ready for action when your zucchini slices are prepped. This little step ensures that every chip has the best possible chance at crispiness and flavor.
Step 2: Slice and Dry the Zucchini
Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, slice your zucchini into thin rounds — the thinner they are, the crispier your zucchini chips in air fryer will turn out! Lay the slices out on paper towels and gently pat dry. Removing moisture is key for achieving that signature crunch instead of a soggy flop.
Step 3: Toss with Flavor
In a large mixing bowl, combine your dried zucchini slices with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss them thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated, creating a savory, golden crust once cooked.
Step 4: Arrange in Air Fryer
Lightly mist your air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the zucchini chips in a single layer (no overlapping!) — this ensures even air circulation for the crispiest finish. You’ll likely need to work in batches for best results.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Cook the zucchini chips in the air fryer for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through to encourage even browning. Watch closely during those last couple of minutes; every air fryer is a little different, so pull them out when they’re golden and crisp to your liking.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once the chips are beautifully browned, transfer them to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. This allows any excess steam to escape, so every bite is perfectly crunchy. Give them a minute or two to cool slightly before diving in!
How to Serve Zucchini Chips in Air Fryer
Garnishes
A little fresh parsley, a light dusting of extra Parmesan, or a sprinkle of coarse sea salt can add a burst of color and boost flavor. Lemon zest brings a refreshing twist that highlights the zucchini’s natural freshness.
Side Dishes
Zucchini Chips in Air Fryer are delightfully versatile! Serve them alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or a vibrant summer salad. They’re perfect for parties with a light dip, like Greek yogurt ranch or marinara sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile the chips high in a rustic basket lined with parchment, or arrange them in cute mason jars for a snackable appetizer board. Add to picnic spreads or tuck them into lunchboxes for a fun, healthy surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra zucchini chips in air fryer left (unlikely, but possible!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For best texture, avoid sealing them while still warm to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing
While you technically can freeze zucchini chips, they tend to lose their crunch when thawed. If you do want to freeze them, lay them flat in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. For best results, enjoy them fresh!
Reheating
To bring the chips back to life, pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness far better than microwaving. A quick reheat and they’re as good as new!
FAQs
Can I make zucchini chips in air fryer without cheese?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, simply skip the Parmesan or swap it for nutritional yeast. You’ll still get plenty of savory flavor and a lovely golden crunch.
How thin should I slice the zucchini?
The thinner, the better — aim for about 1/8-inch slices. Thinner slices crisp up best in the air fryer and bring out the most satisfying crunch.
Why did my zucchini chips turn out soggy?
Too much moisture is usually the culprit. Be sure to pat slices dry thoroughly, don’t crowd the basket, and keep each batch in a single layer. Overlapping leads to steam instead of crispiness!
Can I use other seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your spice blend: smoked paprika, cayenne for heat, Italian herbs, or even a little nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe without dairy all work wonderfully.
Are zucchini chips in air fryer low-carb or keto-friendly?
Yes! Zucchini is naturally low in carbs, and this recipe keeps things super light. Just check the Parmesan if you’re strict about macros, but otherwise, these chips are a great fit for low-carb or keto eaters.
Final Thoughts
I can’t overstate how easy and fun it is to whip up a batch of Zucchini Chips in Air Fryer. They’re light, crispy, and seriously addictive — the kind of snack you’ll want to make on repeat. Give them a try and discover your new favorite way to use up summer zucchini!
Print
Zucchini Chips in Air Fryer Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
These crispy Zucchini Chips made in the air fryer are a delicious and healthy snack or side dish. With a flavorful coating of Parmesan cheese and seasonings, they are a perfect way to enjoy zucchini in a new and exciting form. Easy to make and ready in no time!
Ingredients
Zucchini Chips:
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Zucchini: Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Coat Zucchini: In a bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Prep Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Air Fry: Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving. Repeat with remaining zucchini slices.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, slice zucchini as thin as possible and avoid overlapping in the air fryer.
- You can skip the Parmesan for a dairy-free version or use nutritional yeast as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack, Side Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 batch
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
