Crispy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips

Save this recipe on:

Golden, crunchy, and full of flavor, these Crispy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips are the ultimate answer to snacking smarter without sacrificing taste. Each bite offers a delicate balance of savory garlic, nutty Parmesan, and a crisp coating that turns humble zucchini into an irresistible treat. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer, a side dish, or just something to nibble on, these chips will vanish faster than you expect.

Perfectly crisped in the oven or air fryer, they’re a lighter take on fried snacks. You get all the texture you crave without deep-frying. Even picky eaters who normally pass on vegetables can’t help but come back for more. Ready in just under 30 minutes, this recipe will easily become your new go-to for when you want something tasty yet wholesome.

---

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips

• Crispy Without Deep Frying: Thanks to a breadcrumb-Parmesan combo, you get the crunch you crave without the grease.
• Flavor-Packed: Garlic and Parmesan bring a savory depth that makes every bite bold.
• Kid-Friendly Veggies: A clever way to get kids (and adults) to enjoy zucchini.
• Versatile & Fast: Great for parties, picnics, or just a weeknight snack.
• Easy Prep, Big Results: Simple ingredients and fast baking make it an accessible favorite.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start, gather your tools to make the prep smooth and mess-free:

• Mandoline Slicer or Sharp Knife: Even slices ensure uniform cooking. A mandoline gives precision, but a knife works fine if you go slow.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need separate bowls for egg wash and breadcrumb-Parmesan coating.
• Baking Sheet or Air Fryer Basket: Both methods crisp beautifully. Line your baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
• Cooling Rack: Optional but recommended to keep chips crisp after baking.
• Tongs or Fork: For flipping halfway or handling hot chips safely.

The right tools make these chips easy to execute and crisp to perfection. Whether you’re an oven-baker or air fryer fan, you’ll love how quickly they come together.

---

Ingredients for the Crispy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips

• Zucchini: The star of the show! Mild in flavor and rich in nutrients, zucchini provides the perfect base for absorbing garlic and Parmesan.
• Eggs: Acts as the binder, helping the coating stick to each slice for maximum crispiness.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These airy, Japanese-style breadcrumbs create that coveted golden crunch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth that pairs beautifully with zucchini.
• Garlic Powder: Infuses the chips with bold, savory flavor in every bite.
• Salt & Pepper: Basic but essential for balancing and enhancing all other flavors.
• Olive Oil Spray: Helps crisp up the coating without deep-frying.

---

How To Make the Crispy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips

Step 1: Slice the Zucchini Evenly

Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice zucchini into ⅛-inch thick rounds. Uniform slices are key to even cooking and crunch.

Step 2: Prep the Dredging Station

In one bowl, whisk eggs. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This two-step station is where the crunch begins.

Step 3: Coat Each Slice

Dip each zucchini round in egg, letting excess drip off. Then press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides well. Place coated rounds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into an air fryer basket.

Step 4: Bake or Air Fry to Perfection

• Oven Method: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
• Air Fryer Method: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket at the halfway mark.

Step 5: Serve Hot & Crispy

Once golden and sizzling, remove the chips and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve immediately while the exterior is still perfectly crisp.

---

How to Serve and Store Crispy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips

These zucchini chips are best served hot from the oven or air fryer while they’re still crisp and the Parmesan is golden. They make an excellent party appetizer, after-school snack, or even a flavorful side to grilled dishes.

Pair them with a dipping sauce like ranch, garlic aioli, or marinara for extra indulgence. Want a lighter pairing? A simple Greek yogurt dip with lemon and herbs balances the richness beautifully.

To store leftovers, place fully cooled chips in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat and restore crispiness, pop them back into the oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the chips crispy after baking?

Let them cool on a wire rack to avoid steam buildup. Avoid stacking until they’ve cooled completely.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but the texture will be less crispy. Panko gives a lighter, crunchier finish.

Is fresh garlic okay to use instead of garlic powder?

You can, but garlic powder distributes more evenly and won’t burn as easily during baking.

How thin should I slice the zucchini?

Aim for ⅛ inch slices. Thinner slices may burn; thicker ones may not crisp properly.

Can I make these chips ahead of time?

They’re best fresh, but you can prep the coated zucchini slices in advance and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before baking.

What sauces go best with these zucchini chips?

Garlic aioli, marinara, ranch, or even spicy sriracha mayo are all excellent choices.

---

Want More Veggie Snack Ideas?

If you love these Crispy Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Chips, you’ll definitely want to check out these other savory vegetable-forward favorites:

• Roasted Parmesan Green Beans for a crisp, cheesy side dish that’s perfect for weeknights.
• White Sauce Zucchini Spinach Lasagna if you want to take zucchini to the next level with creamy comfort.
• Avocado Boat Dip for a shareable, refreshing dip that’s packed with flavor.
• Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for a sweet-spicy twist to your cheesy cravings.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps if you’re looking for a protein-packed, flavor-rich wrap.

---

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer or snack board so you can always come back to it when the craving hits.

And if you tried them, let me know—did you bake or air fry? Did you sneak in extra cheese or go light? I’d love to hear how you made them your own!

Looking for more everyday favorites with bold flavors? Head over to my Pinterest page at Kitchen By Kate and follow for daily ideas, comfort meals, and weekend-worthy bites.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: