Irresistible Butternut Squash Chips Recipe with Lime Zest

Posted on November 10, 2025

There’s something magical about biting into a perfectly crisp, lightly tangy chip, isn’t there? These irresistible butternut squash chips with lime zest are a game-changer for snack lovers. The sweet earthiness of butternut squash paired with the zesty brightness of lime creates a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly addictive. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to potato chips or just want to try something new in the kitchen, you’re in for a treat!

I first stumbled upon the idea of squash chips when I had a surplus of butternut squash one autumn. Roasting wasn’t cutting it anymore, and I wanted something lighter and snack-worthy. After some experimenting (and a few kitchen mishaps), I finally nailed down the perfect recipe. Now, these chips are a go-to in my house, especially for movie nights or when friends come over.

If you’re craving something crispy, flavorful, and good-for-you, these butternut squash chips with lime zest are the answer. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra because they disappear fast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These butternut squash chips aren’t your average snack—they’re a little fancy, a lot delicious, and surprisingly simple to make. Here’s why you’ll love them:

Healthy and guilt-free: Made from wholesome squash, these chips are naturally low-calorie, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients.
Bold flavor combo: The sweetness of squash contrasts beautifully with the tangy lime zest, creating a snack that’s hard to resist.
Kid-approved: Even picky eaters love these crunchy chips—perfect for family gatherings or school lunches.
Easy to make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this recipe doesn’t require any fancy kitchen skills.
Perfect for any occasion: Serve them as a snack, side dish, or appetizer for parties, picnics, or game day.
Customizable: You can tweak the seasonings to suit your taste or experiment with different dips and toppings for variety.

These chips are more than a snack—they’re a bite of happiness. Plus, knowing they’re packed with vitamins makes them taste even better!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients to create a snack that’s both flavorful and nourishing. Here’s what you’ll need:

Butternut squash: Peeled and sliced thinly (look for a firm, bright orange squash).
Olive oil: Adds crispiness and enhances flavor.
Sea salt: A pinch to bring out the natural sweetness of the squash.
Black pepper: Freshly ground for a subtle kick.
Lime zest: Adds a pop of tangy brightness.
Optional spices: Paprika or chili powder for a smoky or spicy twist.

You probably already have most of these ingredients on hand, which makes this recipe even easier to put together. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to match your preferences!

Equipment Needed

To make butternut squash chips, you don’t need any fancy tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Sharp knife: For peeling and slicing the squash.
Vegetable peeler: Makes peeling the squash a breeze.
Mandoline slicer: Optional, but great for achieving thin, even slices.
Baking sheets: Use large ones to spread out the slices evenly.
Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Microplane or zester: For grating the lime zest.

If you don’t have a mandoline slicer, a sharp knife works perfectly fine—just try to keep the slices as uniform as possible for even cooking.

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Prepare the squash: Peel the butternut squash and slice it into thin, even rounds or half-moons, about 1/8-inch thick. A mandoline slicer can be helpful here for consistent thickness.
Season the slices: Place the squash slices in a large bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and toss to coat. Sprinkle sea salt, black pepper, and any optional spices (e.g., paprika) over the slices. Toss again to distribute the seasoning evenly.
Arrange on baking sheets: Lay the slices flat on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they don’t overlap. Overlapping will prevent them from crisping up properly.
Bake: Place the sheets in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes as they can burn quickly.
Add lime zest: Remove the chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Grate fresh lime zest over the chips while they’re still warm for maximum flavor.
Serve: Transfer the chips to a serving bowl and enjoy! They’re best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Pro tip: If your chips aren’t as crispy as you’d like, pop them back in the oven for a few more minutes, keeping a close eye to ensure they don’t burn.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making perfect butternut squash chips is all about the details. Here are a few tips to ensure success:

Slice thin and even: The thinner the slices, the crispier the chips. Use a mandoline slicer for precision.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Always arrange the slices in a single layer. Overlapping leads to steaming instead of crisping.
Season generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning—it’s key to bringing out the flavor of these chips.
Keep an eye on them: Butternut squash chips can go from perfectly crisp to burnt in seconds. Watch them closely as they finish cooking.
Experiment with spices: Try adding garlic powder, cumin, or curry powder for unique flavors.

Making these chips is easy, but the secret lies in the slicing and seasoning. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping up batches in no time!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun ways to customize this recipe:

Spicy twist: Add a dash of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
Herby delight: Sprinkle dried rosemary, thyme, or even garlic powder for an herby flavor boost.
Citrus swap: Use lemon or orange zest instead of lime for a different tangy note.
Low-oil option: If you’re watching your fat intake, use a light spray of cooking oil instead of olive oil.
Air fryer method: For extra crispiness, cook the squash slices in an air fryer at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Feel free to experiment! These chips are versatile and work well with a wide range of flavors.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These butternut squash chips are best served fresh from the oven when they’re warm and crispy. Here are some serving and storage tips:

Serving temperature: Serve warm or at room temperature. They lose some crispiness as they cool but are still delicious.
Pairing ideas: These chips pair beautifully with guacamole, salsa, or a creamy yogurt-based dip.
Storage: Store leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge.
Reheating: To re-crisp, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.

Pro tip: The lime zest flavor intensifies over time, so don’t be surprised if the chips taste even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s why you can feel good about enjoying these chips:

Calories: Approximately 80 calories per serving (depends on oil quantity).
Rich in vitamins: Butternut squash is packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.
Low-carb alternative: Perfect for those avoiding traditional chips.
Allergen-friendly: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.

These chips are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a satisfying and healthy snack choice.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a snack that’s as tasty as it is nutritious, these irresistible butternut squash chips with lime zest are a must-try. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing—or not! I love how versatile they are, whether I’m hosting a get-together or just need a quick snack while binge-watching my favorite show.

Give this recipe a go and let me know what you think! Did you add your own twist? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag me on social media with your creations. Happy snacking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Frozen squash won’t work as well for this recipe because it tends to have excess moisture, which prevents the chips from becoming crispy.

How do I prevent the chips from sticking to the pan?

Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to avoid sticking. Also, make sure the chips are lightly coated in oil.

Can I make these chips in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook the slices at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even crispiness.

What’s the best way to slice butternut squash for chips?

A mandoline slicer works best for thin, even slices. If you don’t have one, use a sharp knife and aim for uniform thickness.

Can I add other flavors to these chips?

Definitely! Try spices like paprika, garlic powder, or even cinnamon for a sweet twist. The possibilities are endless!

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