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Looking for a light, healthy snack that delivers the satisfying crunch of chips—without the carbs, breadcrumbs, or guilt? These zucchini chips without breadcrumbs are your new go-to. Whether you’re gluten-free, paleo, low-carb, or just trying to sneak more vegetables into your routine, this simple, wholesome recipe fits the bill.
Unlike traditional chip recipes that require a heavy coating or deep-frying, this method enhances the natural flavor and texture of zucchini—baking it low and slow until each round becomes crisp and golden.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make breadcrumb-free zucchini chips, plus share tips, storage ideas, flavor variations, and answers to common questions.
🥒 Why You’ll Love These Zucchini Chips
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No Breadcrumbs Needed: Perfect for gluten-free, paleo, and low-carb diets.
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Crispy, Not Greasy: Baked, not fried, and deliciously crunchy.
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Only 5 Ingredients: Simple pantry staples for bold flavor.
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Kid-Friendly & Snackable: Great for lunchboxes or party platters.
📝 Ingredients You’ll Need
These minimalist chips rely on seasoning and technique rather than coatings or flours:
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2 medium zucchinis – thinly sliced
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1½ tablespoons olive oil – or avocado oil
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon sea salt (plus more to taste)
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Optional: cracked black pepper or smoked paprika
H2: Step-by-Step Instructions
H3: 1. Prep the Zucchini
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Wash and dry the zucchinis thoroughly.
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Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to cut into very thin slices—about 1/16 inch thick.
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Lay the slices between paper towels and press gently to remove excess moisture. This step is key for crispiness!
H3: 2. Season and Toss
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In a large bowl, toss zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
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Mix well to ensure even coating, but don’t over-saturate.
H3: 3. Bake Low and Slow
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Preheat your oven to 225°F (110°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Arrange zucchini slices in a single layer, not touching.
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Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp. Keep an eye on the edges!
H3: 4. Cool and Store
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Let chips cool completely on a wire rack to crisp further.
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Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days—though they rarely last that long!
🌿 Optional Flavor Variations
Switch things up by experimenting with these breadcrumb-free seasoning combos:
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Lemon Zest + Thyme – For a bright, herby twist.
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Curry Powder – Add warmth and depth with just a pinch.
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Everything Bagel Seasoning – For a savory, trendy upgrade.
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Nutritional Yeast – For a cheesy, dairy-free flavor.
✅ Tips for Perfect Zucchini Chips
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Dry Your Zucchini Thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy of crunch. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat them dry.
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Cut Evenly: A mandoline slicer is your best friend here. Uneven slices can burn or stay soggy.
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Use Convection: If your oven has a convection setting, use it for even crisping.
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Watch Closely: As chips near the end of baking, check every 5–10 minutes. Zucchini can go from golden to burnt quickly.
📦 How to Store & Re-Crisp
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Store in a tightly sealed container lined with paper towels.
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If chips lose crispiness, reheat at 200°F (93°C) for 10–15 minutes to bring them back to life.
❓FAQs
H4: Can I make these zucchini chips in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 250°F (120°C) for about 30–40 minutes, flipping halfway. Check frequently as air fryers cook faster than ovens.
H4: Do I need to peel the zucchini?
Not at all. The peel adds texture and nutrients. Just give them a good wash.
H4: Why aren’t my chips crispy?
Most likely, either the slices were too thick or they weren’t dried enough. Thinner and drier = better crunch.
H4: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, but they’re best eaten fresh. You can store them up to 3 days; re-crisp as needed in the oven.
H4: Are these keto-friendly?
Absolutely! They’re low in carbs and fit beautifully into a keto lifestyle.
🥗 Serving Suggestions
These zucchini chips are the perfect standalone snack, but also pair wonderfully with:
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Hummus or tahini dip
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Guacamole or avocado crema
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Greek yogurt with dill
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Salsa or pico de gallo
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Alongside burgers or sandwiches as a healthy side
💬 Final Thoughts
Zucchini chips without breadcrumbs prove that you don’t need extra carbs or complicated coatings to create something delicious and satisfying. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you’ll be rewarded with a crunchy, guilt-free snack that’s endlessly versatile.
Whether you’re looking for a paleo chip recipe or a breadcrumb-free, gluten-free snack, this recipe delivers every time.
