This crispy air fryer zucchini is a tasty and healthy snack! With just a light coating of seasoning, it gets perfectly golden and crunchy—like magic!
You might find yourself eating the whole batch in one sitting. I mean, who can resist that crunchy goodness? 😂 I love serving it with a dip for extra fun!
Making this dish is a breeze! Just slice the zucchini, toss it with some spices, and let the air fryer do the work. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy veggies!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Choose firm medium zucchinis for the best results. If zucchinis aren’t available, yellow squash works as a great substitute. They’ll give a similar texture.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch. However, regular breadcrumbs can be used if that’s what you have, or you can crush some crackers for a different take!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can mimic that cheesy taste without the dairy.
Egg: If you’re vegan or allergic, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or even unsweetened applesauce as a binder.
Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment! If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs can also replace dried ones if you have them on hand.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Stays Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting crispy zucchini is all about preparation and cooking techniques. Here are some practical tips:
- Make sure to slice the zucchini into thin, even rounds for consistent cooking.
- Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the zucchini to ensure they stick well before air frying.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; give each slice space for hot air to circulate around them.
- For the crispiest results, consider spraying a light coat of olive oil on the breaded zucchini before cooking.
Flipping the zucchini halfway through helps with even browning too. Enjoy your delicious, crispy zucchini!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
For the Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (such as oregano or basil)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Breading:
- 1 large egg
- Olive oil spray (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy air fryer zucchini recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10-12 minutes of cooking time. In no time, you will have a delightful snack or side dish that’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps ensure your zucchini will cook evenly and become nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
3. Beat the Egg:
In a separate bowl, crack open the large egg and beat it until it is fully mixed. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the zucchini slices.
4. Bread the Zucchini:
Take each zucchini slice and dip it into the beaten egg, letting any excess egg drip off. Then, coat the slice with the breadcrumb mixture. Gently press the crumbs onto the zucchini so they stick well. Repeat this step for all the zucchini slices.
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Now, place the breaded zucchini slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they are not overlapping, as this will help them cook evenly. You may need to cook them in batches if your air fryer is small.
6. Optional – Spray for Extra Crispiness:
If you like, you can lightly spray the breaded zucchini slices with olive oil. This will help them achieve an even crispier finish!
7. Air Fry the Zucchini:
Cook the zucchini in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to ensure they get that perfect golden brown and crispy texture all around.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When the zucchini is done cooking, carefully take them out of the air fryer. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy them as a delicious snack or side dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! While panko breadcrumbs are great for extra crunch, you can use regular breadcrumbs, gluten-free breadcrumbs, or even crushed crackers. Just be aware that the texture might vary slightly based on what you choose.
What Should I Do If My Zucchini Slices Are Too Moist?
If your zucchini slices are moist, sprinkle them with a little salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This will draw out some of the moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel before breading to help the coating adhere better.
Can I Make These Zucchini Slices Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bread the zucchini slices and store them in the fridge for up to a few hours before air frying. For longer storage, you can freeze the breaded slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a ziplock bag. When ready to cook, no need to thaw; just air fry them for a few extra minutes.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover crispy zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as they can become soggy.
