1. Prepare the Zucchini:
- Slice the Zucchini:
- Wash and dry the zucchini. Slice it into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. Try to keep the slices uniform in size for even cooking.
- Remove Excess Moisture:
- Place the zucchini slices on a paper towel and sprinkle with a bit of salt. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with additional paper towels to remove the released moisture.
2. Prepare the Coating:
- Set Up the Breading Station:
- In a shallow bowl, place the flour.
- In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
- In a third shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Bread the Zucchini Slices:
- Dredge each zucchini slice in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
- Coat the slice in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
3. Air Fry the Zucchini Chips:
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Arrange the Zucchini Slices:
- Arrange the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; you may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook the Zucchini Chips:
- Lightly spray the zucchini slices with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chips are golden brown and crispy. The exact time may vary based on your air fryer model and the thickness of the slices.
- Check for Doneness:
- Keep an eye on the chips as they cook, especially towards the end, to prevent burning. They should be crispy but not overly dark.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
- Cool the Chips:
- Remove the zucchini chips from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This will help them stay crispy.
- Serve:
- Enjoy the zucchini chips on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Zucchini Chips are a fantastic way to enjoy a crunchy, flavorful snack with a fraction of the oil used in traditional frying methods. The air fryer ensures they come out crispy and delicious every time, while the seasoned coating adds a savory, cheesy crunch. Perfect for a light snack or as a side dish, these zucchini chips are a healthy alternative to conventional chips and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Enjoy these chips fresh from the air fryer for the best texture and taste!