This crispy air fryer zucchini is a tasty treat that’s easy to make! With a light coating of batter, these zesty slices turn golden and crunchy. Perfect for snacking or as a side!
You just can’t resist that crunch! I always make a bit extra because they disappear fast at my house. Pair them with a dip for extra fun—it’s a hit every time! 🥒✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Choosing firm medium zucchinis is key to achieving the perfect crispy texture. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash can work well. Just make sure they’re about the same size!
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are my top choice since they create that lovely crunch. If you’re out of Panko, you can substitute with regular breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is the best for flavor and slight melting. If you need a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Egg: The egg helps the breadcrumbs stick. If you want to make these vegan, a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) works great as a binder!
Olive Oil: Adding olive oil is optional but gives a nice golden brown color. If you prefer to skip oil, try a light spray of cooking spray or skip it entirely—the zucchinis will still turn out delicious!
How Do I Get My Zucchini Crispy in an Air Fryer?
The key to getting your zucchini perfectly crispy lies in the breading process. It’s all about getting that nice coating and managing cooking time.
- Start by making sure the zucchini slices are dry. Pat them down with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- When dipping in the egg, ensure they are well-coated, but let any excess drip away before moving to the breadcrumbs.
- Press down gently on the breadcrumb mixture to adhere well, which will help create a crispier exterior.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; give each piece enough room for air circulation, which is crucial for crispiness.
- Flipping the slices halfway through cooking ensures even crisping on both sides. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini Coating:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works best for extra crispiness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for extra crisp)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 12 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 22 minutes getting your crispy air fryer zucchini ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your zucchini cooks evenly and gets extra crispy.
2. Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will be the flavorful coating for your zucchini slices.
3. Beat the Egg:
In another bowl, beat the egg until well mixed. If you want an extra crispy texture, stir in the tablespoon of olive oil. This step is optional but adds a nice crunch!
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Take each slice of zucchini and dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess egg drip off. Then, thoroughly coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks well.
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Place the coated zucchini slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. If you have a lot, it’s best to work in batches for the crispiest results.
6. Air Fry the Zucchini:
Air fry the zucchini for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Keep an eye on them until they are golden brown and look deliciously crispy!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once the zucchini is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle. Then, it’s time to dig in!
8. Enjoy!
Your crispy air fryer zucchini is now ready to be enjoyed as a tasty snack or a healthy side dish! Share with friends or keep them all to yourself!
Can I Use Different Types of Zucchini?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for regular green zucchini, yellow zucchini or even pattypan squash can work well too. Just keep the size similar to ensure even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes, crackers, or even ground nuts for a gluten-free option. Adjust the seasoning as necessary to match your taste.
How to Store Leftover Zucchini?
Store any leftover crispy zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, toss them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes until crispy again!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or use a plant-based egg replacer. The result will still be delicious and crispy!
