Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
- Wash and Slice: Thoroughly wash the zucchinis and slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick. You can use a mandoline slicer for even slices.
- Pat Dry: Place the zucchini slices on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and pat them dry. This helps to remove excess moisture, ensuring they become crispy when cooked.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
- Mix Breadcrumbs and Seasonings: In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Place the flour in a separate shallow dish. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
Step 3: Bread the Zucchini Slices
- Coat with Flour: Dredge each zucchini slice in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in Egg: Dip the floured zucchini slice into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Press the zucchini slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly. Repeat with all the zucchini slices.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure it is hot and ready for cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Zucchini Chips
- Arrange in Basket: Place the breaded zucchini slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. You may need to cook them in batches.
- Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the zucchini slices with olive oil or cooking spray. This helps them become crispy and golden brown.
- Air Fry: Cook the zucchini chips at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chips are done when they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove and Cool: Carefully remove the zucchini chips from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Variations: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with cheddar or Asiago for a different flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Extra Crispy: For extra crispy chips, increase the cooking time by a few minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Zucchini Chips are a delicious and healthy snack that’s easy to make. The air fryer ensures they are perfectly crispy without the need for excess oil, making them a guilt-free treat. Whether enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce, these zucchini chips are sure to be a hit.
Key Takeaway
Air Fryer Zucchini Chips offer a quick, easy, and healthy way to enjoy a crispy and flavorful snack. This recipe is versatile, allowing for various seasonings and garnishes to suit your taste. The air fryer ensures a perfect crisp every time, making these zucchini chips a fantastic addition to any snack or meal.