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Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Chips – Easy Air Fryer Snack

crispy parmesan zucchini chips - featured image

These crispy Parmesan zucchini chips are a quick and easy air fryer snack that delivers a satisfying crunch with a salty, nutty Parmesan flavor. Ready in under 15 minutes, they’re a healthy alternative to potato chips that’s genuinely addictive.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini (about 8 ounces each)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for salting zucchini)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Prep the zucchini: Wash and dry the zucchini thoroughly. Trim off the ends, then slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife.
  2. Draw out the moisture: Place the zucchini slices in a colander and sprinkle with about 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Toss gently to coat. Let them sit for 10 minutes. Pat each slice dry with paper towels.
  3. Set up your breading station: In three shallow bowls, place the all-purpose flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and black pepper in the third.
  4. Bread the zucchini: Dredge each dried zucchini slice in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, letting extra drip off. Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly. Place on a baking sheet or plate.
  5. Preheat the air fryer: Set air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
  6. Arrange the chips: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place breaded zucchini slices in a single layer, not overcrowding. Cook in batches if needed.
  7. Spray and cook: Lightly spray the tops of the zucchini chips with olive oil spray. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. At the 5-minute mark, flip each chip and spray the other side lightly. Cook until golden brown and firm.
  8. Cool and crisp: Transfer cooked chips to a cooling rack or paper towel-lined plate. Let cool for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don’t skip the salting step—it draws out moisture for crispier chips. Use panko breadcrumbs for the lightest, crunchiest coating. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping. Serve immediately for best texture; chips stay crispy for about 30 minutes. For gluten-free, use almond flour and gluten-free panko. For vegan, use flax eggs and nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini chips, air fryer zucchini, crispy zucchini, Parmesan zucchini, healthy snack, low carb snack, vegetable chips