Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini (Printable Version)

Light and crunchy zucchini chips with a golden coating, cooked quickly for a satisfying snack or side dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced

→ Breading

02 - 0.5 cup gluten-free panko breadcrumbs
03 - 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 0.5 teaspoon salt
07 - 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

→ Coating

08 - 1 large egg
09 - 1 tablespoon milk (dairy or non-dairy)

→ For Serving (optional)

10 - Fresh lemon wedges
11 - Marinara sauce or ranch dip

# Directions:

01 - Pat zucchini slices dry using paper towels to eliminate excess moisture.
02 - In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until combined.
03 - Combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl.
04 - Dip each zucchini slice into the egg mixture, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure adhesion.
05 - Place coated zucchini slices in a single layer within the air fryer basket without overlapping; cook in batches if necessary.
06 - Cook at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crisp.
07 - Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your preferred dipping sauce if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • They're ready faster than you can set a timer, and crispy in a way that feels almost indulgent for something so light.
  • No deep frying mess, no guilt, just the satisfying crunch of vegetables that taste like you actually tried.
02 -
  • The drying step isn't optional if you want actual crispness—I learned this the hard way by skipping it, and got soggy disappointment instead.
  • A light spray of olive oil before air frying takes them from good to restaurant-quality, adding crunch and color that makes people ask what your secret is.
03 -
  • A mandoline slicer makes uniform slices that cook evenly, but your sharpest knife works fine if you take your time and keep your fingers back.
  • Don't skip the halfway flip—it's the difference between golden-brown perfection and a few dark spots with pale patches.

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