Save My sister-in-law brought these to a summer barbecue last year, and I ate half the plate before anyone else arrived. They were that good—light, impossibly crisp, with just enough seasoning to make you keep reaching.
I made them for my book club the next week, and three people asked for the recipe before they even finished the first batch. Something about them feels fancy but completely approachable at the same time.
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis: Pick firm ones without soft spots, and slice them as evenly as you can
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Just enough to help the seasonings stick without making the chips soggy
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Sprinkle this carefully so every chip gets a little without overdoing it
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth that balances the mild zucchini
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Optional, but it gives them that savory everything-bagel vibe
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Also optional, but it adds a smoky depth that makes people wonder what you did differently
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat to 225°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper so nothing sticks.
- Slice the zucchini thin:
- Cut rounds about 1/8 inch thick, and try to keep them uniform so they bake evenly.
- Remove excess moisture:
- Pat the slices dry with paper towels—any water left on them keeps them from getting crisp.
- Season generously but carefully:
- Toss the slices with olive oil and seasonings until each piece is lightly coated.
- Arrange in a single layer:
- Lay them out without overlapping, or they will steam instead of crisp.
- Low and slow baking:
- Bake for an hour, then flip and rotate the sheets for another 30 to 40 minutes until golden.
- Let them cool completely:
- They keep crisping as they cool, so do not rush this part or they will feel floppy.
Save My husband confessed he was skeptical when he saw me arranging raw zucchini on baking sheets, but after that first batch he was the one suggesting them for movie night.
Best Seasoning Combinations
Salt and pepper are classic, but I have found some variations that disappear just as fast. Garlic powder and onion powder together give them an everything-bagel taste. A little chili powder and cumin make them feel like taco night without the meat. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, savory note that works surprisingly well.
Getting Even Slices
A mandoline makes this so much easier, but a sharp knife and steady hand work fine too. The closer your slices are to the same thickness, the more evenly they will crisp. Thicker spots stay chewy while thin ones overcook, and nobody wants that.
Serving and Storing
These are at their absolute best the day you make them, when the crunch is still perfect. If you need to save some, store them in an airtight container and give them a quick refresh in a warm oven the next day. Serve them alongside sandwiches or just eat them by the handful when you want something salty but not heavy.
- Try sprinkling grated Parmesan over them right after they come out of the oven
- Italian herbs like oregano and basil give them a rustic, savory finish
- Make extra because they disappear faster than you expect
Save Keep these in your back pocket for when you want something crunchy without the regret. They might just become your new favorite way to use up summer zucchini.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I ensure the zucchini chips become crispy?
Dry the slices thoroughly before seasoning and bake them at a low temperature for an extended time, flipping halfway to promote even crisping.
- → Can I add different seasonings to the chips?
Yes, try chili powder, Italian herbs, or nutritional yeast to customize the flavor profile according to your preference.
- → Is it better to use a mandoline or knife for slicing?
A mandoline provides uniformly thin slices which help achieve even baking and consistent crispiness, though a sharp knife works if used carefully.
- → How should I store leftover chips to keep them crisp?
Store cooled chips in an airtight container and consume within two days to maintain their crunchy texture.
- → Can I add cheese before baking?
Sprinkling a little grated Parmesan before baking can enhance crispiness and add a savory note.