How to Microwave Zucchini Chips (5 Ways to Avoid Sogginess)

Table of contents

Are you craving a healthy and crunchy snack? Look no further than zucchini chips made in the microwave! Discover the recommended method for creating these delicious treats with ease.

Learn the optimal cooking time to achieve a satisfyingly crispy texture that will keep you coming back for more and wondering about pre-treatment or seasoning.

We’ve got you covered with tips on how to enhance the flavor of your zucchini chips. Find out if a specific type of zucchini works best for this snack.

How to make zucchini chips in the microwave

To make zucchini chips in the microwave, you can follow these simple steps:

Ingredients

1-2 medium zucchinis, washed and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)
Olive oil or cooking spray
Salt and any desired seasonings (e.g., pepper, garlic powder, paprika)

Instructions

Slice the zucchini: Use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer to cut the zucchini into thin, even slices. Thinner slices will crisp up better in the microwave.
Prep the zucchini slices: Lay the zucchini slices on a paper towel and gently pat them dry to remove any excess moisture. This will help them become crisper.
Season the zucchini slices: In a bowl, drizzle some olive oil over the zucchini slices or use a cooking spray to lightly coat them. Add salt and any other seasonings you like to enhance the flavor.
Arrange the zucchini slices: Place the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Avoid overlapping the slices to ensure even cooking.
Microwave the zucchini slices: Microwave the plate on high for about 3-5 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power and the thickness of the slices. Start with 3 minutes and check their progress. Continue microwaving in 30-second increments until they turn golden brown and become crispy.
Cool and serve: Once the zucchini chips are done, remove the plate from the microwave and allow the chips to cool for a minute or two. They will become crispier as they cool down. Serve immediately as a delicious and healthier alternative to regular potato chips.

5 tips for avoiding sogginess when microwaving zucchini chips

1. Slice the zucchini uniformly

Use fresh zucchini and slice them into thin, even slices, ideally about 1/8 inch thick. If the slices are too thick, they may retain more moisture and become soggy during microwaving.

A mandoline slicer or a sharp knife will help you achieve consistent thickness throughout the slices.

2. Remove excess moisture

After slicing, lay the zucchini slices on a paper towel and gently pat them dry. Zucchinis have a high water content, and removing excess moisture is crucial to preventing chip sogginess.

Patting them dry will reduce the amount of steam produced during microwaving.

3. Season strategically

Avoid adding too much oil or seasoning, as excess moisture can lead to sogginess. Use olive oil or cooking spray to coat the zucchini slices evenly.

Adding a sprinkle of salt and other seasonings sparingly will enhance the flavor without making the chips soggy.

4. Microwave in batches and a single layer

To ensure even cooking and prevent trapped steam, microwave the zucchini chips in batches. Place the slices in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate, ensuring they don’t overlap or touch each other.

Overcrowding the microwave can result in uneven cooking and sogginess.

5. Use the right microwave settings and timing

Start by microwaving the zucchini chips at 50–70% power level to allow them to dehydrate gradually.

High power may cause uneven cooking and result in sogginess. Microwave for about 3-5 minutes initially, then adjust the time as needed. Check their progress frequently to avoid overcooking.

Once done, let the chips sit in the microwave or on the plate for a minute or two to continue crisping up as they cool.

How long should I microwave zucchini chips to achieve a crispy texture?

To achieve a crispy texture when microwaving zucchini chips, start by slicing the zucchini into thin, even slices, about 1/8 inch thick.

Place the slices in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate, ensuring they don’t overlap. Microwave the zucchini chips at 50–70% power level for approximately 3-5 minutes, depending on the microwave’s wattage and the thickness of the slices. Begin with 3 minutes and check their progress, adding 30-second increments if needed.

The chips should turn golden brown and become crispy. After microwaving, allow the chips to rest for a minute or two to continue crisping up as they cool down.

Do I need to pre-treat or season the zucchini before microwaving it into chips?

It is recommended to pre-treat and season the zucchini before microwaving it into chips. Pre-treating the zucchini involves washing and drying it thoroughly.

After washing, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial as zucchinis have a high water content, and excess moisture can lead to sogginess when microwaving.

Once the zucchinis are dry, season them with olive oil or use a cooking spray to lightly coat the slices. Add a sprinkle of salt and desired seasonings, such as pepper, garlic powder, or paprika, to enhance the flavor.

What are some seasoning options for zucchini chips when microwaving?

Salt and pepper: A classic and simple combination that enhances the natural taste of the zucchini chips.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory and aromatic flavor to the chips.
Onion powder: Imparts a mild onion taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Paprika: Provides a slightly smoky and sweet taste and a vibrant color.
Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese before microwaving for a savory, cheesy twist.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary that complements zucchini well.
Ranch seasoning: A ranch-flavored seasoning mix adds a tangy and herby taste to the chips.
Cumin and chili powder: For a hint of spiciness and smokiness
Lemon pepper: A zesty combination of lemon zest and black pepper that pairs beautifully with zucchini
Herb mix: Use a combination of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley for a fresh and aromatic taste.

Should I use a specific type of zucchini to make microwave chips?

You can use any type of zucchini available to you. There is no specific variety of zucchini required for this method.

Both green and yellow zucchinis work well for making chips. The key is to select fresh, firm, and free zucchinis from soft spots or blemishes.

Fresh zucchinis generally have less moisture, which is beneficial for achieving crispy chips.

Can I use parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate to microwave zucchini chips?

You can use either parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate to microwave zucchini chips. Both methods are commonly used for microwaving zucchini chips, so you can choose the one that is more convenient for you.

Parchment paper: Parchment paper can be a convenient option as it helps prevent the zucchini slices from sticking to the plate, making cleanup easier. Simply place a piece of parchment paper on a microwave-safe plate and arrange the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer on top of the paper. The parchment paper should not pose any issues in the microwave as long as it doesn’t touch the sides or walls.
Microwave-safe plate: Alternatively, you can place the zucchini slices directly on a microwave-safe plate without parchment paper. Choose a plate labeled microwave-safe to ensure it can withstand heat and microwave radiation without any potential risks.

Can I use a microwave crisper tray or microwave-safe rack to improve the crispiness of zucchini chips?

Using a microwave crisper tray or a microwave-safe rack can be an excellent way to improve the crispiness of zucchini chips.

These specialized accessories are designed to elevate the food above the surface of the microwave-safe plate, allowing air to circulate more freely around the food. This enhanced airflow helps to remove moisture more effectively, resulting in crisper and less soggy zucchini chips.

Here’s how to use a microwave crisper tray or rack for zucchini chips:

Prepare the zucchini slices: Slice the zucchini into thin, even pieces and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Season the zucchini slices: Lightly coat the zucchini slices with olive oil or use a cooking spray. Add salt and any desired seasonings to enhance the flavor.
Arrange on the crisper tray or rack: Place the seasoned zucchini slices in a single layer on the microwave crisper tray or microwave-safe rack. Ensure they are spaced apart, allowing for even airflow.
Microwave: Place the crisper tray or rack with the zucchini slices in the microwave. Follow the recommended microwave time and power settings, starting at 50–70% power for 3-5 minutes and adjusting as needed based on your microwave’s wattage and the thickness of the slices.
Allow cooling: Once the chips are done, remove the crisper tray or rack from the microwave and let the zucchini chips cool for a minute or two. They will continue to crisp up as they cool down.

Can I store the microwaved zucchini chips for later consumption, and if so, how should I store them?

Yes, you can store the microwaved zucchini chips for later consumption. To keep them fresh and maintain their crispiness, follow these steps for proper storage:

Cool the chips completely: Allow the zucchini chips to cool to room temperature before storing them. This helps to prevent condensation and maintain their crispy texture.
Use an airtight container: Transfer the cooled zucchini chips into an airtight container. Ensure the container is clean and dry, with a tight-fitting lid to prevent air and moisture from getting in.
Layer the chips: If you have multiple batches, layer them with parchment paper or paper towels between the layers to prevent them from sticking together.
Store in a cool, dry place: Place the airtight container away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry area. Avoid storing the chips in a humid environment, as this can cause them to lose their crispiness.
Consume within a few days: While zucchini chips can stay relatively crispy when stored properly, they are best consumed within a few days to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.