Crispy Zucchini Chips with Basil Mayo

🥒✨ Crispy Zucchini Chips with Basil Mayo

These oven-baked or air-fried zucchini chips are golden, crunchy, and perfectly seasoned—offering a healthier alternative to traditional chips. Paired with a refreshing basil mayo, they make the ultimate guilt-free snack or appetizer!

📝 Ingredients

For the Zucchini Chips:

• 2 large zucchinis
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

For the Basil Mayo Dip:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prep Zucchini:
   Slice zucchinis into thin rounds (about 1/8″ thick). Pat them dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
2. Mix Breading:
   In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Chips:
   Lightly brush or spray zucchini slices with olive oil or a little beaten egg. Dredge each slice in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to coat.
4. Bake or Air Fry:
   • Oven: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18–22 minutes or until golden and crispy. Flip halfway.
   • Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
5. Make Basil Mayo:
   Stir together mayo, chopped basil, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Chill until ready to serve.
6. Serve:
   Serve chips warm with basil mayo on the side for dipping.

💡 Notes & Tips

• Crispier chips come from thinner slices and a dry surface—blot moisture well!
• Want it lighter? Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
• Don’t overcrowd your tray or air fryer basket—zucchini should be in a single layer.
• Try with Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for a flavor twist.
• Parmesan can be swapped with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

🍽️ Servings

• Serves: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: ~35 minutes

🔢 Nutritional Info (per serving – approx.)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 380mg

Values vary based on portion and cooking method.

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✅ Benefits

• Low-carb alternative to potato chips
• Zucchini is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants
• Basil provides anti-inflammatory and mood-boosting compounds
• Parmesan adds protein and umami without needing excess salt
• Baked or air-fried, making it a heart-healthier choice

❓ Q&A

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: They’re best served fresh, but you can reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.

Q: Can I freeze zucchini chips?
A: Not recommended—zucchini releases moisture upon thawing and loses texture.

Q: Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
A: Absolutely! Panko-style gluten-free breadcrumbs work well for texture.

Q: What else can I dip these in?
A: Try marinara, garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo!