1. Prepare the Zucchini
- Slice the Zucchini:
- Wash and dry the zucchinis. Slice them into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even cooking.
- Remove Excess Moisture:
- Place the zucchini slices on a paper towel and lightly sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with a clean paper towel to remove any additional moisture.
2. Prepare the Coating
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano or basil (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Prepare the Dipping Station:
- In another bowl, add the olive oil. You will dip the zucchini slices in the oil before coating them with the breadcrumb mixture.
3. Coat the Zucchini
- Dip in Oil:
- Dip each zucchini slice into the olive oil, ensuring it is well-coated. Let any excess oil drip off.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs:
- Press the oiled zucchini slice into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it is evenly coated. Place the coated slice on a plate or tray.
4. Air Fry the Zucchini Chips
- Arrange in Air Fryer:
- Arrange the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly. You may need to cook them in batches.
- Cook:
- Air fry the zucchini chips at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes. Shake the basket or flip the chips halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
- Check for Doneness:
- The zucchini chips should be golden brown and crispy. If they need more time, continue air frying in 2-minute increments until they reach the desired crispiness.
5. Cool and Serve
- Cool:
- Transfer the zucchini chips to a plate lined with paper towels to cool slightly. This helps to absorb any excess oil and keep them crispy.
- Serve:
- Enjoy the zucchini chips warm or at room temperature. They make a great snack on their own or can be served with a dip such as ranch, marinara, or tzatziki.
Tips for Success
- Uniform Slices: Slice the zucchini as evenly as possible to ensure consistent cooking.
- Dry Thoroughly: Make sure the zucchini slices are thoroughly dried to achieve the best crispiness.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the zucchini chips in a single layer to allow for proper air circulation and crispiness.
Air Fryer Zucchini Chips are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, crispy snack with minimal effort. Their crunchy texture and flavorful coating make them a satisfying treat that’s perfect for any time of day. Enjoy your homemade zucchini chips!