Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Crispy air fryer zucchini chips seasoned with olive oil, sea salt, and pepper make a healthy and delicious snack.

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Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 medium Zucchini
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/4 tsp Sea salt
• 1/8 tsp Black pepper
• 1 medium Zucchini
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 1/4 tsp Sea salt
• 1/8 tsp Black pepper

Method

 

1. Use a mandoline to slice zucchini into 1/8 inch (0.3 cm) thick slices.
2. Pat any excess moisture off of the zucchini slices with a paper towel.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 325 degrees F (162 degrees C).
4. In a medium bowl, combine the zucchini slices, olive oil, sea salt and pepper. Toss until all slices are coated. (Make sure to separate any slices that stick together.)
5. Place the zucchini chips in the air fryer in a single layer. Cook for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check at the 8 minute mark and remove any slices that are browning/crisping. Continue to check every couple of minutes until all slices are done. Repeat with all the zucchini slices.
6. Let the air fryer zucchini chips cool to crisp up more.

Notes

– Ensure zucchini slices are uniform in thickness for even crisping.
– Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
– Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model for optimal crispness.

Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

The technique that makes it

The key to achieving perfectly crispy zucchini chips in the air fryer lies in two critical steps: proper slicing and effective drying. Zucchini has a high water content, and if this moisture isn’t removed, the chips will steam rather than crisp up. First, slicing the zucchini uniformly thin is essential. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. A mandoline slicer is ideal for this, ensuring consistent thickness, which promotes even cooking. If using a knife, take your time to get them as close in size as possible.

Second, after slicing, it’s crucial to remove as much surface moisture as possible. Patting the zucchini slices thoroughly with paper towels is the most accessible method. For even better results, you can lightly salt the slices and let them sit in a colander for 15-20 minutes to draw out more water, then pat them dry again. This pre-treatment significantly enhances crispiness. Finally, arrange the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding will lead to steaming, so cook in batches if necessary. The hot circulating air of the air fryer will then dehydrate the surface of the zucchini, creating a delightful crispness.

Troubleshooting

• Soggy Chips: This usually happens due to insufficient moisture removal before cooking or overcrowding the air fryer basket. Ensure you pat the zucchini slices very dry and cook in a single layer, using multiple batches if needed.
• Burnt Edges, Soft Centers: This indicates uneven cooking, often caused by inconsistent slicing thickness or cooking at too high a temperature for too long. Use a mandoline for uniform slices and adjust the cooking time, checking frequently.
• Zucchini Sticks to Basket: If the zucchini wasn’t oiled evenly or the basket surface is not non-stick, they can adhere. Ensure each slice is lightly and evenly coated with olive oil and consider using a light spray of cooking oil on the basket itself.
• Not Crispy Enough: This is a common issue stemming from not drying the zucchini adequately or not cooking them long enough. Re-evaluate your drying technique and consider adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time, keeping a close eye on them.

Substitutions

• Olive Oil: Avocado oil or a neutral vegetable oil like canola or grapeseed oil can be used. The result will be similar crispiness, though olive oil imparts a distinct flavor.
• Sea Salt: Kosher salt is a good substitute for sea salt, offering a similar texture and salinity. Table salt can also be used, but use slightly less as it is finer and can make the chips too salty.
• Black Pepper: A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can be added for extra flavor. For a touch of heat, a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes would work well.
• Zucchini: While this recipe is specifically for zucchini, thinly sliced yellow squash or even eggplant could be attempted. However, their water content and texture differ, so cooking times and crispiness levels may vary significantly.

Pro tips

• Ensure zucchini slices are uniform in thickness for even crisping.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
• Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model for optimal crispness.

Try this easy air fryer zucchini chips recipe for a delightful and healthy snack. Enjoy the satisfying crunch!

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