Looking for a guilt-free snack that actually tastes good? These Crunchy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips are your answer. They’re incredibly easy to make and fit perfectly into your collection of Healthy Air Fryer Recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Zucchini: Any green zucchini works.
- Olive Oil Spray: Avocado oil spray is a great alternative.
- Nutritional Yeast: Adds a cheesy flavor; skip if you don’t have it.
- Garlic Powder: Onion powder can be used instead.
- Smoked Paprika: Regular paprika is fine, or a pinch of chili powder for a kick.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil spray
- 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 80
- Tools Needed: Mandoline slicer (recommended), air fryer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Zucchini
Wash and thoroughly dry your zucchini. Use a mandoline slicer to cut the zucchini into very thin, uniform rounds, about ⅛-inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and get extra crispy.
2. Season the Zucchini
Place the thinly sliced zucchini in a medium bowl. Lightly spray with olive oil. Add the nutritional yeast, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to ensure all the zucchini slices are evenly coated with the seasonings.
3. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness, making these a standout among Healthy Air Fryer Recipes.
4. Arrange and Air Fry
Arrange the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this will prevent them from getting crispy. You will likely need to cook them in batches.
5. Cook Until Golden
Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes, as they can go from crispy to burnt quickly. They should be golden brown and crunchy.
6. Serve Immediately
Remove the crunchy zucchini chips from the air fryer. Serve them warm and enjoy your healthy snack!
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in a teaspoon of dried Italian herbs or dried dill.
- “Cheesy” Flavor: Increase the nutritional yeast for an even cheesier taste.
- Lemon Zest: A tiny bit of lemon zest added after cooking brightens the flavor.
Storage Instructions:
These crunchy air fryer zucchini chips are best enjoyed immediately for maximum crispness. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes to revive their crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make zucchini chips without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them in an oven, but the air fryer offers superior crispiness and speed.
Why are my zucchini chips soggy?
This usually happens if the zucchini isn’t dried thoroughly, if slices are too thick, or if the air fryer basket is overcrowded.
Do you need to salt zucchini before air frying?
It’s not strictly necessary for this recipe, but salting and draining before seasoning can help remove excess moisture for extra crispiness.
Can you use other vegetables for air fryer chips?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes, kale, or even thinly sliced carrots make great Healthy Air Fryer Recipes.
How thin should the zucchini slices be?
Aim for about ⅛-inch thickness. A mandoline slicer makes this much easier and ensures uniform slices.
Is this a good snack for kids?
Yes, these are a fantastic healthy and delicious snack that even picky eaters often enjoy.
