These garlic-flavored Air Fryer Zucchini Chips are the ultimate crispy, healthy snack. Made without any breading, they come together quickly for a guilt-free appetizer or side dish that the whole family will love. This recipe transforms a simple vegetable into an addictive, crunchy treat that feels like a decadent snack.
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You are going to love these Air Fryer Zucchini Chips because they are incredibly simple to make and require only four basic ingredients. Unlike many other recipes, these chips have no heavy breading, making them a lighter, gluten-free, and keto-friendly option. They offer a satisfying crunch similar to potato chips but with the nutritional benefits of fresh zucchini. Plus, the air fryer does all the hard work, giving you a mess-free cooking experience in under 25 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 large zucchini, cut into thin slices (about 1/8 inch thick)
- Kosher salt (for drawing out moisture and seasoning)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adjust to your taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Lay the sliced zucchini in a single layer on paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. Generously sprinkle each slice with Kosher salt and let them sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the zucchini to sweat out excess moisture.
- Dry the slices: Use another paper towel or cloth to firmly pat the zucchini slices dry. Removing this moisture is the secret to achieving a crispy texture.
- Season: Place the dried zucchini slices in a large mixing bowl. Add the extra virgin olive oil and garlic powder. Toss thoroughly until every slice is evenly coated with the oil and spices.
- Arrange: Place the seasoned zucchini in your air fryer basket or on the trays in a single layer. Do not overlap them, as they need proper airflow to crisp up.
- Air Fry: Cook at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes. Check the progress at the 10-minute mark. Because some slices may be smaller or thinner, they might finish earlier than others.
- Cool and Serve: Remove any chips that have turned golden brown and crispy. Place them on a wire cooling rack for a few minutes; this helps them retain their crunch before serving.
Expert Tips / Pro Tips
To get the best Air Fryer Zucchini Chips, consistency is key. If you have a mandolin, use it to ensure every slice is exactly the same thickness, which helps them cook at the same rate. If you are using a basket-style air fryer, you will likely need to work in batches. Overcrowding the basket will result in soggy zucchini rather than crispy chips. Always keep a close eye on the air fryer during the last five minutes of cooking, as the transition from perfectly golden to burnt can happen very quickly.
Variations & Substitutions
While garlic and salt are a classic combination, you can easily customize this recipe. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the chips immediately after they come out of the air fryer. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the oil mixture. You can also substitute the extra virgin olive oil with avocado oil for a higher smoke point. For those following a vegan diet, these chips are already perfectly suited to your needs as written.
Serving Suggestions
These chips are delicious enough to eat plain, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of dips. Try serving them with a side of cool ranch dressing, a zesty marinara sauce, or a creamy tzatziki. For a Mediterranean flair, a lemon herb tahini dressing or a roasted garlic white bean dip makes an excellent accompaniment. If you are serving these as a side dish, they are a fantastic healthy alternative to potato chips when paired with air-fried bratwurst or grilled chicken.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
Air Fryer Zucchini Chips are best enjoyed immediately while they are at their peak crispness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Note that they may lose some of their crunch over time. To restore the texture, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 375°F for 1 to 2 minutes. Freezing is not recommended for these chips, as the high water content of the zucchini will cause them to become mushy upon thawing.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 134 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 294mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Protein | 1g |
Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the zucchini: Lay the sliced zucchini in a single layer on paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. Generously sprinkle each slice with Kosher salt and let them sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the zucchini to sweat out excess moisture.1 large zucchini, Kosher salt
- Dry the slices: Use another paper towel or cloth to firmly pat the zucchini slices dry. Removing this moisture is the secret to achieving a crispy texture.1 large zucchini
- Season: Place the dried zucchini slices in a large mixing bowl. Add the extra virgin olive oil and garlic powder. Toss thoroughly until every slice is evenly coated with the oil and spices.1 large zucchini, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- Arrange: Place the seasoned zucchini in your air fryer basket or on the trays in a single layer. Do not overlap them, as they need proper airflow to crisp up.
- Air Fry: Cook at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes. Check the progress at the 10-minute mark. Because some slices may be smaller or thinner, they might finish earlier than others.
- Cool and Serve: Remove any chips that have turned golden brown and crispy. Place them on a wire cooling rack for a few minutes; this helps them retain their crunch before serving.
Notes
FAQ
Can I make these zucchini chips in a regular oven?
Yes, you can make them in the oven, though the results may vary. To mimic the air fryer, use a convection setting at 400°F. Place a wire rack over a baking sheet and arrange the slices in a single layer on the rack to allow air to circulate around the entire chip.
Why are my zucchini chips soggy?
Sogginess is usually caused by two things: skipping the salting/sweating step or overcrowding the air fryer. Ensure you pat the slices very dry and cook them in a single layer with plenty of space between each piece.
Can I use frozen zucchini?
You can use frozen zucchini slices if they have been thawed completely first. Be sure to pat them extremely dry with paper towels, as frozen vegetables tend to release more moisture than fresh ones.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, there is no need to peel the zucchini. The skin helps hold the chip together and provides a nice color and extra nutrients. Just be sure to wash the vegetable thoroughly before slicing.