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Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

A white bowl overflowing with crispy, seasoned air fryer zucchini chips, catching the sunlight.

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Make light, crunchy, and flavorful zucchini chips using your air fryer. This recipe shows you how to prevent sogginess for perfect homemade vegetable crisps every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for smoky seasoning zucchini chips)

Instructions

  1. Slice the zucchini very thinly, aiming for 1/16 to 1/8 inch thickness. Use a mandoline slicer for uniform slices.
  2. Place the zucchini slices in a colander and sprinkle evenly with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for 20 to 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step is key to making zucchini chips not soggy.
  3. Rinse the salted zucchini slices briefly under cold water and pat them completely dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. They must be very dry before proceeding.
  4. In a medium bowl, toss the dried zucchini slices with olive oil until lightly coated.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the oiled zucchini and toss gently to coat.
  6. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Arrange the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary to ensure air circulation for crispy vegetable chips air fryer results.
  8. Air fry for 8 to 12 minutes, flipping the chips halfway through the cooking time. Cooking time varies based on thickness and air fryer model.
  9. Check the chips frequently after the 8-minute mark. They are done when they look slightly shrunken and feel crisp to the touch.
  10. Remove the chips and let them cool completely on a wire rack. They will crisp up further as they cool. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Notes

  • For the thinnest slices, use a mandoline slicer. Uniform thickness helps achieve even cooking.
  • If you do not have smoked paprika, regular paprika works, but the smoky flavor adds depth to these savory air fryer treats.
  • If your air fryer has a dehydrate function, you can use a lower temperature (around 180°F) for 1-2 hours after the initial crisping phase to ensure maximum dryness, similar to air fryer dehydrating vegetables.
  • This recipe makes about 2 servings; adjust quantities for larger batches, remembering to cook in single layers.

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