Air Fryer Zucchini
Fresh zucchini is actually one of my favorite foods and it’s definitely at the top of the list as it remains an easy way to get a healthy snack incorporated into the day that’s low carb and super flavorful. Making air fryer zucchini recipes could not have more simple steps and are always sure to be a hit with the entire family!
Fresh zucchini always finds its way onto my grocery list for my meal plan as crispy air fryer zucchini is easy to make and works well as a healthy side dish since it’s considered a “free recipe”. Thankfully so, as I could munch on every air fryer zucchini recipe on this list all week!
Breaded Parmesan Zucchini
Thanks to the delightful parmesan cheese that you’ll add to this great appetizer or an after school snack, this recipe for air fryer parmesan zucchini results in crispy perfection.
You’ll have a yummy snack to enjoy that’s a healthier option to making deep-fried french fries because we’ll be utilizing only a small amount of olive oil as cooking spray while the zucchini cooks to make sure the seasonings stick to the sliced zucchini.
To make this one of my favorite air fryer zucchini recipes, you’ll need 3 medium zucchini, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, ½ cup of flour or almond flour, 2 large eggs, ⅓ cup of parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of panko bread crumbs or italian bread crumbs.
On a large plate or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, combine the flour, Italian seasoning, and salt and black pepper, and also in a small bowl, stir together the parmesan cheese and bread crumbs.
Towards the side in a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, also being sure to wash and cut zucchini into small, even zucchini rounds.
Dip zucchini slices into the bowl filled with flour, followed by the egg mixture, and finally the breading mixture, also coating the inside of your air fryer basket with cooking spray. Line the parmesan zucchini chips in a single layer and spray the tops of them with cooking spray as well; this helps keep that panko mixture sealed on nicely.
Begin air frying at 400 degrees F for 5 minutes, flipping over once, and cooking for another 5 minutes or until golden brown, for a total cooking time of 10 minutes. Allow them to cool on a plate with a paper towel, and leftover zucchini can be stored in the fridge in an air-tight container for 3-5 days.
It’s not recommended to store breaded zucchini bites in a freezer bag kept frozen as the excess moisture inside of zucchini will cause it to turn the breading soggy as it defrosts.
Air Fryer Zesty Zucchini
Anyone searching for a keto friendly snack or side out of one of these air fryer zucchini recipes will love this zesty, lemony zucchini dish. Additionally, this recipe card allows for plenty of personalization, so that you can include whatever seasonings will make you say, “Yum!”.
For the best results, I typically start with either avocado oil or olive oil and lightly coat my prepped zucchini in a medium bowl, having used 3 to 4 medium zucchini.
Pro tip: slice zucchini into about ¼-inch thick coins as this is a great way to ensure they cook properly with the given cook times.
Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to complete this recipe in multiple batches as the zucchini slices must remain in a single layer and can not overlap.
Sprinkle your favorite things on, ensuring to include 1 teaspoon of sea salt, ½ teaspoon of pepper, and a splash of lemon juice for a delicious way to add some acidity to the dish.
Personally, I often throw in a bit of everything bagel seasoning or chili powder for spice! Bake it at 400 degrees F for a cooking time of 8-10 minutes, tossing them once at the halfway point, and adding more time if necessary.
Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
Nevermore will you turn to the potato chip after trying out this air fryer zucchini chips recipe, which also is referenced simply as air fryer zucchini fries.
First time cooks also fancy this recipe for its simplicity and the fact that it’s a healthy way to enjoy your favorite dipping sauce (I love ranch with these!).
Instead of coins, slice the zucchini longways, shaping them like fries, and toss in a large mixing bowl with a handful of ingredients, including 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of fry seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste.
It air fries at 400 degrees F evenly on the air fryer tray for 12 minutes total, flipping halfway. This is such a delicious way to enjoy a great side dish with breaded fish or other proteins, so try adding cajun or taco seasoning next time for a burst of flavor.
Many of these air fryer zucchini recipes are quite versatile and work some of my other air fryer recipes, like air fryer green beans and air fryer eggplant, which is good news for a foodie like me who enjoys variety!
You can make your perfect side dish with crispy cheese or zesty lemons, breaded or without any breading, spicy or garlicy, and more!
How To Make Zucchini Chips
Zucchini chips are a great snack and much healthier than store-bought potato chips. You will want to slice your zucchini thinner, at 1/8 of an inch, and cook it in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes less than you would for air fryer zucchini. These air fryer zucchini chips will be thin, like potato chips. I like to use Himalayan Pink Salt when making my chips.
FAQ
Are You Supposed To Peel Zucchini?
There is no need to peel zucchini. The outer layer is an amazing source of vitamins and nutrients and you’ll want to keep that on. After rinsing your zucchini under cold water, you’ll want to remove the stem from the zucchini.
Should You Salt Zucchini Before Frying?
Salting the zucchini before putting it in the air fryer will give you a nice, crisp zucchini with a nice crunch. It is a good idea to salt them before you put them in the air fryer.
How Do You Reheat Fried Zucchini In An Air Fryer?
You can easily reheat your air fryer zucchini right in the air fryer. Just set your air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes.
Can You Refrigerate Fried Zucchini?
Your air fryer zucchini will stay good for up to two days in the refrigerator in a covered food container.
What Food Goes Good With Air Fryer Zucchini?
There are so many options to choose from when pairing a meal together with air fryer zucchini. You can sprinkle a bit of parmesan cheese on top of your zucchini and add some fresh produce in the mix such as bell pepper, eggplant, mushrooms, tomatoes, corn and onions. You can also add herbs and spices to your zucchini, such as parsley, oregano, garlic, basil, or salt and pepper.
More Air Fryer Recipes
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2-4 zucchini
- 1 tbsp olive oil - or avocado oil
- ½ tsp pink himalayan salt
Instructions
- Thinly slice zucchini and place in medium bowl. Toss with olive oil (or avocado oil) until evenly covered.
- Season with salt or your seasoning of choice. Lay zucchini flat in air fryer. Do not overlap. Work in batches if you need to.
- Cook at 400°F in air fryer for 8-10 minutes, tossing zucchini halfway through cook time. Add additional time if needed for added crispness.
Notes
- Keep zucchini in a single layer in air fryer so each piece cooks evenly. Cook in batches if necessary.
- It’s not necessary to use parchment paper or tin foil for this recipe as the zucchini has been coated in oil which will prevent it from sticking to the air fryer tray.
- I like to use between 2-4 medium-sized zucchini for this recipe and I cook in several batches. The zucchini will get smaller during the cooking process, so I like to make sure I have enough zucchini for everyone I’m cooking for.
- You can serve with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce, or eat them plain!
Wow, can’t wait to make this recipe, it sounds so simple to make!
There are super easy to make, I think you’ll love them!
Excited for these, they look great! Thanks for sharing Chloe! 🙂
They are so good!
Yummm, these were delicious! We added parmesan and had ranch on the side, really tasty!
I’m so glad you loved them Jackee! They are one of my faves 🙂
Really really really good!
So glad you enjoyed it!