Crispy and Delicious Air Fryer Zucchini Chips: The Ultimate Recipe

Imagine sinking your teeth into a crunchy, golden-brown zucchini chip that’s so light and flavorful, it’s hard to believe it’s a healthy snack. With an air fryer, you can create zucchini chips that taste like they’re fresh out of a gourmet kitchen—all without the guilt of deep frying. This recipe is not only simple but also packed with irresistible flavors, thanks to a touch of Parmesan and a delightful herby yogurt dipping sauce. Ready to turn your zucchini into something extraordinary? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

For the Zucchini Chips

Ingredient	Amount
Zucchini	1 medium (about 8 ounces)
Kosher salt	½ teaspoon
Cooking spray	As needed
Grated Parmesan cheese	2 tablespoons (divided)
Garlic powder	½ teaspoon (divided)

For the Herby Yogurt Dipping Sauce

Ingredient	Amount
Garlic	1 small clove (finely grated)
Fresh basil leaves	2 teaspoons (finely chopped)
Yogurt (plain, whole-milk or 2%)	¼ cup
Grated Parmesan cheese	½ teaspoon
Kosher salt	Pinch
Black pepper	Freshly ground, to taste

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a crispy snack or side dish ready to serve.
2. Healthier Option: These chips are air-fried, not deep-fried, making them lower in fat without compromising on taste.
3. Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings or try different dips to suit your taste buds.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

1. Preparing the Zucchini

The secret to crispy zucchini chips lies in how you prep them.

• Slice the Zucchini: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to cut the zucchini into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick.
• Draw Out the Moisture: Toss the zucchini slices with kosher salt in a bowl. Spread them in a single layer on a double layer of paper towels. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

2. Making the Herby Yogurt Dipping Sauce

• Grate and Chop: Finely grate the garlic into a small bowl. Chop fresh basil leaves and add them to the bowl.
• Combine Ingredients: Stir in yogurt, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Garnish with additional chopped basil if desired, and set aside.

3. Prepping the Air Fryer

• Heat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 370°F for a few minutes.
• Grease the Basket: Coat the air fryer basket or tray with a light layer of cooking spray to prevent sticking.

4. Seasoning and Air Frying the Chips

• Season the Zucchini: Pat the zucchini slices dry with paper towels. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• Add Seasonings: Lightly coat the zucchini slices with cooking spray. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan and ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder.
• Air Fry: Cook for 7–8 minutes until the chips are golden-brown. Check halfway through cooking and remove smaller chips that are ready.

5. Repeat and Serve

• Repeat the Process: Repeat the air frying steps with the remaining zucchini slices, patting them dry before seasoning if needed.
• Serve Immediately: Transfer the chips to a serving plate and serve them warm with the herby yogurt dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the crispiest chips, arrange the zucchini in a single, even layer. Overlapping will result in soggy chips.
2. Keep an Eye on Smaller Chips: Smaller pieces will cook faster, so check regularly to avoid burning.
3. Pat Dry Thoroughly: Excess moisture is the enemy of crispy zucchini chips, so make sure to dry them well.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving)
Calories	~90 kcal
Protein	~4g
Carbohydrates	~6g
Fat	~5g
Fiber	~1g

Variations and Add-Ons

• Spicy Zucchini Chips: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in a bit of shredded mozzarella or cheddar for extra cheesiness.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes! Yellow squash works just as well and adds a slightly sweeter flavor.

2. How do I store leftover zucchini chips?

Zucchini chips are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.

3. What’s the best way to slice zucchini for chips?

Using a mandoline ensures even slices, which helps the chips cook uniformly. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife works fine too.

4. Can I make these in a conventional oven?

Yes, bake the zucchini chips at 375°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Why are my chips soggy?

Soggy chips are usually caused by excess moisture. Be sure to salt the zucchini and pat them dry thoroughly before air frying.

6. Can I freeze zucchini chips?

It’s not recommended as freezing affects the texture and crispiness of the chips.

Conclusion: It’s Time to Try Air Fryer Zucchini Chips!

Now that you’ve got the perfect recipe, it’s time to make these irresistible air fryer zucchini chips. Not only are they a healthier alternative to traditional chips, but they’re also packed with flavor and easy to prepare. So grab your air fryer, slice up some zucchini, and enjoy a snack that’s as satisfying as it is guilt-free.

Ready to crunch your way to happiness? Give this recipe a try today!

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