Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan Recipe
Say goodbye to soggy veggie sides, because Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan is about to steal the show at your next gathering! Imagine golden, crunchy rounds of zucchini delicately coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan, all made effortlessly in your air fryer. This dish is a game-changer for anyone craving a lighter take on a classic Italian favorite, with none of the fuss or extra oil of deep frying. Served with marinara for dipping, Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan is equally at home as an appetizer, snack, or light entrée — and you’ll love how quick and crowd-pleasing it is!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This no-fuss ingredient list proves that simple can be absolutely sensational. Each item is handpicked to create irresistible flavor and the perfect crispy finish, plus you’ll find most of them already in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what makes Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan so addictive:
- Zucchini: Choose medium zucchinis—their tender seeds and mild flavor are ideal for crisping up beautifully in the air fryer.
- All-purpose flour: A light dusting of flour is the secret to helping the breadcrumb coating stick like a dream.
- Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the classic glue, ensuring every breadcrumb clings for maximum crunch.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs stay extra crisp in the air fryer, giving your zucchini that irresistible bite.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan delivers signature savory flavor and melts to a golden finish.
- Italian seasoning: A pinch infuses each bite with fragrant herbs for classic Italian flair.
- Garlic powder: For a gentle, aromatic boost—no mincing required.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps each round perfectly seasoned.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to balance the cheesiness and herbs.
- Cooking spray: A light spritz ensures your zucchini gets beautifully golden and crisp in the air fryer.
- Marinara sauce (for serving): The ultimate dip! Look for a robust, chunky sauce or use your homemade favorite.
How to Make Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. This step is key—the extra heat ensures your zucchini begins crisping up the minute it hits the basket, rather than steaming.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
While the air fryer preheats, arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, another with beaten eggs, and the third with a mix of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This organized setup means dipping and coating your zucchini slices will be a breeze and minimizes mess.
Step 3: Bread the Zucchini
Coat each zucchini round first in flour, tapping off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten egg so it gets fully coated, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even, generous layer sticks all around. Don’t be shy—more coating means more crunch!
Step 4: Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket
Place the breaded zucchini rounds in a single, non-overlapping layer in your air fryer basket. Give them a light spray with cooking oil, which helps achieve beautiful browning without greasiness.
Step 5: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Cook the zucchini at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping each round halfway through and giving another quick spritz of oil. They’re ready when the breading is crisp and the cheese is just starting to turn golden. Serve warm with a bowl of marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch!
How to Serve Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil brings a pop of color and a bright, herbal freshness. For extra flair, shower your Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan with a bit more grated Parmesan right out of the fryer—it melts instantly into irresistible, cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This dish is fantastic alongside a big leafy salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or nestled next to a bowl of pasta tossed with olive oil or marinara. It also pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or roasted veggies for an easy vegetarian meal everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Try piling the crispy zucchini on a serving platter with mini skewers for party-style bites, tucking a few slices into a soft hoagie roll with extra marinara for a playful sandwich, or arranging them atop a grain bowl for a hearty lunch. Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan might even become your favorite pizza topping or salad crunch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have leftovers, let the zucchini rounds cool completely, then place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any moisture. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them as crisp as possible.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze cooled Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once solid. This helps prevent the slices from sticking together, and you can reheat straight from frozen when the craving strikes.
Reheating
To recapture that fresh-out-of-the-air-fryer crunch, pop the rounds back in your air fryer at 375°F for about 3–4 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving—they’ll get soggy—but a hot oven works in a pinch.
FAQs
Can I make Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour and panko for your favorite gluten-free versions—the recipe remains as golden and delicious as ever, perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions.
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Yes! Yellow squash has a similar texture and mild flavor, so you can substitute it seamlessly in this recipe for a cheerful splash of color and the same tasty results.
Is it possible to bake these instead of air frying?
Definitely. Arrange the breaded zucchini rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 425°F for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through for crisp, oven-baked perfection.
What’s the best Parmesan to use?
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano brings the best flavor and melt. While pre-grated Parmesan works in a pinch, you’ll notice a richer, nuttier flavor (and better coating) with the real thing.
How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Make sure to pat the zucchini slices dry after washing, dredge thoroughly in each station, and gently press the breadcrumb mixture on to help it adhere. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer, which can cause steam and sogginess.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a simple way to jazz up veggies, Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy, full of bold flavors, and an instant favorite for all ages. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how a handful of humble ingredients can come together for such an unforgettable bite!
Print
Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delicious and crispy appetizer with these Air Fryer Zucchini Parmesan chips. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection, these zucchini slices are a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks.
Ingredients
Zucchini:
- 2 medium zucchinis sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Breading:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Others:
- cooking spray
- marinara sauce for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Breading Station: Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge and Coat: Dredge each zucchini slice in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Cook: Place zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spraying lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the zucchini slices with oil before and halfway through cooking.
- You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
