Crispy Zucchini Chops

Crispy zucchini chops are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. Here’s a simple recipe to make them in the oven:

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare Zucchini:
   • Wash and dry the zucchinis.
   • Cut the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds or lengthwise strips, depending on your preference.
3. Set Up Breading Station:
   • In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
   • In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
   • In a third shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Bread the Zucchini:
   • Dredge each zucchini piece in the flour, shaking off any excess.
   • Dip the floured zucchini into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off.
   • Coat the zucchini with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
5. Bake the Zucchini:
   • Arrange the breaded zucchini pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
   • Lightly spray the tops of the zucchini with cooking spray or olive oil spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is golden brown and crispy. Flip the zucchini halfway through the cooking time to ensure even baking.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the crispy zucchini chops from the oven and let them cool slightly.
   • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
   • Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure the zucchini pieces crisp up properly.
• If you prefer, you can also use an air fryer to make these zucchini chops. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Enjoy your crispy zucchini chops as a tasty appetizer or snack!