Oven Baked Zucchini Chips With Sea Salt

Created on December 20th, 2025 at 11:13 pm

A Simple Oven Baked Snack Option

Oven baked zucchini chips with sea salt are a straightforward savory snack designed for moments when you want something crunchy without frying or heavy ingredients. This recipe focuses on thinly sliced zucchini, light seasoning, and controlled oven heat to create chips that feel crisp and clean rather than oily or dense. The goal is not to replicate fried chips, but to create a vegetable based snack that fits naturally into everyday routines.

Zucchini is well suited for baking because it has a mild flavor and a structure that responds well to slow moisture removal. When sliced thinly and baked properly, zucchini transforms from a soft vegetable into a light, crisp chip with a subtle savory finish. Sea salt is used sparingly to enhance flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the zucchini.

This recipe is intentionally simple and repeatable. It works for afternoon snacks, light sides, or casual grazing situations where heavier snacks feel unnecessary.

Why This Recipe Works

The success of oven baked zucchini chips depends on moisture control and spacing. Zucchini contains a high amount of water, which means proper slicing and baking technique are essential. Thin, even slices allow moisture to evaporate slowly, while a moderate oven temperature prevents burning before crispness develops.

Using minimal oil helps the zucchini dry rather than steam. Sea salt draws out surface moisture and sharpens flavor without requiring additional seasoning. The result is a chip that feels light, crisp, and balanced.

Another reason this recipe works is predictability. Once the slicing thickness and oven timing are consistent, the results are reliable. This makes the recipe easy to repeat without constant adjustment.

Texture and Flavor Profile

These zucchini chips are thin, lightly crisp, and delicate. They are not brittle, but they hold their shape when lifted and provide a clean bite. The interior dries evenly, avoiding soggy centers when baked correctly.

Flavor is intentionally restrained. Zucchini has a mild, slightly sweet profile that pairs well with salt. Sea salt enhances this without masking it. This simplicity allows the chips to be eaten alone or paired with other foods without clashing.

Ingredient Roles and Simplicity

Each ingredient plays a clear role. Zucchini forms the base. Olive oil supports even browning. Sea salt enhances flavor and helps manage surface moisture.

Because the ingredient list is short, technique matters more than complexity. Thin slicing, even spacing, and patience during baking are the keys to success.

Time Breakdown

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4 snack portions

Ingredients

• Zucchini
• Olive oil
• Sea salt

Kitchen Tools

• Sharp knife or mandoline
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 225°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Wash the zucchini and pat dry thoroughly.
3. Slice the zucchini into very thin, even rounds using a sharp knife or mandoline.
4. Place the slices in a mixing bowl and drizzle lightly with olive oil.
5. Toss gently to coat all slices evenly.
6. Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, making sure they do not overlap.
7. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt.
8. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through.
9. Remove chips as they turn lightly golden and crisp, allowing others to continue baking if needed.
10. Cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.

Pro Tips for Better Zucchini Chips

Slice the zucchini as evenly as possible to avoid uneven baking. Use low heat and patience rather than higher temperatures. Remove finished chips early to prevent bitterness. Allow chips to cool fully before judging crispness, as they firm up as they cool.

Make Ahead and Storage Guidance

Zucchini chips are best eaten fresh, but they can be stored briefly. Once completely cooled, store them in a loosely covered container at room temperature for up to one day. Sealing them tightly may introduce moisture and reduce crispness.

If chips soften, they can be refreshed in a low oven for a few minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve oven baked zucchini chips as a light snack, a simple side dish, or a crunchy element alongside sandwiches or wraps. They also pair well with mild dips or spreads, though they are flavorful enough to enjoy on their own.

FAQ

Why are my zucchini chips not crispy?
Excess moisture, thick slices, or overlapping during baking are the most common reasons. Make sure slices are thin and spaced apart.

Can I use a higher oven temperature?
Higher temperatures often cause browning before moisture fully evaporates, leading to bitter or uneven chips.

Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No. The skin helps the slices hold their shape and adds texture.

Can I make these chips without oil?
A small amount of oil helps even drying. Without it, the chips may bake unevenly.

Are these chips good the next day?
They are best fresh, but can be refreshed briefly in the oven if needed.

Nutrition Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	90 kcal
Protein	2 g
Fat	5 g
Carbohydrates	8 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	180 mg

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.