Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini is a tasty and healthy snack that’s super easy to make! Simply slice fresh zucchini, coat it lightly, and let the air fryer do the magic for a crunchy bite.
I love how quick this is! In just a few minutes, I have a yummy side dish that makes veggies fun. Plus, the kids always sneak a few—they can’t resist that crunch! 🥒
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: The star of this dish! Look for firm, bright zucchinis without blemishes. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash works as a great alternative.
Breadcrumbs: Panko is my favorite for that extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will work too. If you’re gluten-free, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor, but you can use pre-grated if that’s what you have. Nutritional yeast is a tasty dairy-free substitute for a cheesy flavor.
Egg: The egg helps the breading stick. For a vegan option, use flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tbsp flax + 2.5 tbsp water) as a binding agent.
Seasonings: Feel free to play around with spices! Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a kick if you like some heat.
How Do I Ensure My Zucchini is Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is all about the coating and cooking method. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your zucchini slices are not too thick. Aim for 1/4-inch rounds for optimal crispiness.
- After coating, let the zucchini sit for a few minutes, allowing the breadcrumbs to adhere better before air frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer! This allows hot air to circulate, making them crispy. Cook in batches if needed.
- Flipping them halfway ensures even browning, so keep an eye on them!
These steps should help you achieve deliciously crispy air fryer zucchini. Happy cooking!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis
For the Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
For Cooking:
- Cooking spray (or olive oil spray)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total preparation and cooking time is about 20-25 minutes. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the zucchinis and breading, and then around 10-12 minutes to cook them in the air fryer. It’s a quick and tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchinis:
Start by washing the zucchinis thoroughly under running water. Then, slice them into rounds that are about 1/4-inch thick. Once sliced, set them aside on a plate.
2. Make the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and just a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything well to make sure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In another bowl, crack the egg and beat it until it’s well mixed. This will be the sticky layer for your zucchini slices to hold the breading.
4. Coat the Zucchini Slices:
Now, take each zucchini slice and dip it into the beaten egg, making sure to let any extra egg drip off. Then, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing the crumbs onto the slice to help them stick. Place the coated zucchini slices on a plate or a baking sheet for easy access.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step is important to get them nice and crispy!
6. Cook the Zucchini:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket (if necessary, cook in batches). Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking, until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the zucchini from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Enjoy your crispy air fryer zucchini hot as a tasty snack or a delicious side dish!
Can I Use Different Breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! While panko breadcrumbs are great for extra crunch, you can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even crushed cornflakes for a different texture. Just keep in mind that each type of breadcrumb will give a slightly different crunch and flavor!
How to Store Leftover Zucchini Chips?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy when reheating, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This helps restore their crunchiness!
Can I Make These Zucchini Chips Without Eggs?
Yes! If you’re looking for an egg substitute, you can use a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water as a binding agent. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before using it to coat the zucchini slices.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with Air Fryer Zucchini?
These crispy zucchini chips pair wonderfully with a variety of dips! Consider serving them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli for an extra kick. They also go well with a simple yogurt-based dip for a refreshing contrast!
