Air Fryer Zucchini Chips Recipe

Get ready to win over everyone at your next snack session with Air Fryer Zucchini Chips! These crisps are light as air, impossibly crunchy, and delicately seasoned, offering a healthier take on traditional chips without missing a beat in flavor. Thin-sliced zucchini is transformed in the air fryer until golden and addictive, making this recipe perfect for guilt-free snacking or as a vibrant appetizer. With just a handful of simple ingredients and surprisingly little prep, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making Air Fryer Zucchini Chips all your life.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe proves that simple really is best! Each ingredient plays an important role, from the moist, mild zucchini to the bold hint of garlic powder that keeps every bite interesting. Trust me: don’t skip or skimp – these basics deliver the best flavor and crunch.

• 1 large zucchini: Thinly sliced, this is the fresh, green hero that turns gorgeously crisp in the air fryer.
• Kosher salt: Draws out excess moisture from the zucchini, ensuring perfectly crispy chips every time.
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Helps the chips become golden and keeps the seasoning clinging to each slice.
• 1/2 – 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adjustable to taste, this brings an irresistible savory note to the chips.

How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Step 1: Prep and Salt the Zucchini Slices

Start by slicing your zucchini into rounds about 1/8-inch thick; a mandoline is your best friend here for uniform chips. Arrange those slices in a single layer on a paper towel and sprinkle each one generously with kosher salt. This step might seem small, but letting the slices sit for 5–10 minutes helps pull out a surprising amount of water, setting the stage for truly crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips.

Step 2: Pat Dry and Season

After the waiting game, use a fresh paper towel or clean cloth to pat each zucchini slice dry—don’t rush this part! Next, toss the slices into a large bowl and drizzle with the olive oil and your chosen amount of garlic powder. Toss everything together until every chip is nicely coated, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer

Now for the fun part! Lay your zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on trays. Resist the urge to pile them up, as air circulation is key to turning these slices into the crispiest Air Fryer Zucchini Chips possible. Work in batches if needed for best results.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Set your air fryer to 400°F and cook the chips for 15–20 minutes. Check in around the 10-minute mark: some slices may crisp up faster than others, especially if they’re cut thinner. Remove any golden, crispy chips to a cooling rack and continue air frying the rest until every slice has achieved chip nirvana.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Patience pays off in the final step! Let your finished chips rest on a wire rack for a few minutes. This brief cooling time ensures they stay shatteringly crisp. Now they’re ready to be devoured—just try to resist eating them all straight from the rack.

How to Serve Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Garnishes

Dress up your Air Fryer Zucchini Chips with a final dusting of freshly grated Parmesan, cracked black pepper, or even a sprinkle of lemon zest. For a touch of color and freshness, try a scatter of chopped parsley or basil right before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair these crunchy chips with a cool dip like tzatziki or herby Greek yogurt for a perfect contrast. They also sit beautifully alongside grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches, turning a simple lunch into something that feels fancy yet effortless.

Creative Ways to Present

For fun gatherings, pile your Air Fryer Zucchini Chips into a parchment-lined basket or a rustic wooden board. Serve them as part of a snack platter with hummus, cheese, and fresh veggies, or use them to top salads and soups for unexpected crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep any leftover Air Fryer Zucchini Chips crisp, place them in an airtight container once they’re fully cooled. Store at room temperature for up to 2 days; just make sure the container’s well-sealed to prevent them from getting soggy.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t ideal for these chips, as the zucchini’s high water content tends to make them lose their crunch upon thawing. For maximum enjoyment, stick to making them fresh in small batches.

Reheating

If your chips lose a bit of their crispness, just pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes. This quick refresh will revive their crunch and have them tasting freshly made again.

FAQs

Can I make Air Fryer Zucchini Chips without oil?

You can skip the oil, but a light coating really helps with crispiness and seasoning adherence. If you prefer, a quick spritz of cooking spray is a great in-between option.

How thin should I slice the zucchini?

Aim for about 1/8-inch slices for the best balance of crisp and sturdy. Thicker slices may stay soft in the center, while thinner ones crisp up wonderfully but may cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them.

What other seasonings work well with Air Fryer Zucchini Chips?

Try adding smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or a pinch of cayenne for heat. Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast also make excellent flavor boosts.

Do I need to peel the zucchini first?

No need! The skin is tender and adds both color and nutrients. Just give your zucchini a good wash and pat dry before slicing.

Why did my chips turn out soggy?

Excess moisture is often the culprit. Make sure to salt and pat the zucchini slices very dry before air frying, and don’t overcrowd your air fryer so hot air can circulate freely.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about transforming humble veggies into irresistible snacks, and Air Fryer Zucchini Chips truly deliver. If you’re looking for a crunchy, fresh bite that’s as easy as it is delicious, I can’t recommend these enough—give them a whirl and enjoy every last crisp, golden chip!

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