Thin zucchini slices baked until golden, crispy, and cheesy. These are a delicious snack, appetizer, or easy side dish!

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–35 minutes
Total Time: ~45–50 minutes

 Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini
• ¾ cup (75 g) finely grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, optional

Optional for extra crunch

• ¼ cup (25 g) panko breadcrumbs

 Instructions

1. Preheat the oven

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Slice the zucchini

Wash and dry the zucchini.

Slice into very thin rounds, about ⅛ inch (2–3 mm) thick.

For the crispiest chips, keep the slices as even and thin as possible.

3. Remove excess moisture

Arrange the zucchini slices on paper towels.

Lightly sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes.

Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels.

4. Prepare the Parmesan mixture

In a bowl, combine:

• Parmesan
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Black pepper
• Panko, if using

Mix well.

5. Coat the zucchini

Lightly brush each zucchini slice with olive oil.

Press the slices gently into the Parmesan mixture so the cheese sticks to the surface.

6. Arrange

Place the zucchini slices in a single layer on the baking sheet.

Don’t overlap them.

7. Bake

Bake for approximately 15–20 minutes.

Carefully check them and continue baking for another 8–15 minutes, depending on thickness, until deeply golden and crisp around the edges.

Watch closely toward the end because Parmesan can brown quickly.

8. Cool

Remove from the oven and let the chips cool for 5–10 minutes.

They will become crispier as they cool.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve.

 Air Fryer Method

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange zucchini slices in a single layer.
3. Air fry for 8–12 minutes.
4. Check frequently toward the end.
5. Remove when golden and crisp.
6. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cook in batches rather than overcrowding the basket.

 Easy Dipping Sauce

Mix:

• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of black pepper

Serve chilled alongside the zucchini chips.

 Tips for Extra-Crispy Chips

• Thin slices are key.
• Pat the zucchini very dry.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan.
• Use finely grated Parmesan so it adheres well.
• Don’t flip too early—the Parmesan needs time to form a crust.
• Let the chips cool before judging their crispiness.

 Variations

Spicy Parmesan

Add ¼ tsp chili flakes or cayenne.

 Garlic Herb

Add extra garlic powder and dried oregano.

 Extra Cheesy

Mix Parmesan with a little shredded mozzarella, although Parmesan alone crisps better.

 Lemon Parmesan

Add a small amount of lemon zest after baking.

 Nut & Allergy Information

The basic recipe contains no peanuts or tree nuts.

Contains: dairy from Parmesan; wheat/gluten if panko breadcrumbs are used.

Gluten-Free

Simply omit the panko or use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Dairy-Free

Use a suitable dairy-free Parmesan-style alternative.

For serious allergies, always check packaged ingredients for allergen and cross-contact information.

 Recipe Q&A

Why aren’t my zucchini chips crispy?

Zucchini contains a lot of water. Slice it thinly, salt briefly, and pat it very dry before baking.

Can I make them without breadcrumbs?

Yes! Parmesan alone works very well and creates a crisp cheese coating.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

No. Keep the skin on for color, texture, and convenience.

Can I use yellow squash?

Yes, yellow squash can be substituted for zucchini.

Can I make these ahead?

They’re best freshly baked. If storing, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container.

How long do they last?

For best texture, enjoy within 1–2 days.

How do I re-crisp leftovers?

Place them in an oven or air fryer at about 350–375°F (175–190°C) for a few minutes.

Can I freeze them?

Freezing isn’t recommended because the zucchini can become soft after thawing.

 Approximate Nutrition

Per serving, assuming 4 servings:

• Calories: ~150–180 kcal
• Protein: ~10–12 g
• Carbohydrates: ~6–8 g
• Fat: ~10–12 g
• Fiber: ~2 g

Nutrition is approximate and depends on the amount of Parmesan and oil used.

Social Media Caption

CRISPY PARMESAN ZUCCHINI CHIPS!

Thin slices of zucchini coated in savory Parmesan, garlic, and Italian herbs, then baked until golden and crispy! ✨

An easy, cheesy snack that’s perfect for dipping!