Light Crispy Zucchini Snack (Printable version)

Thinly sliced zucchini breaded and air-fried to create a light, crispy, healthy snack alternative.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced

→ Breading

02 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
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 - 2 large eggs, beaten

→ Optional

09 - Olive oil spray

# How to Make It:

01 - Set the air fryer to 400°F and allow it to reach temperature.
02 - Pat zucchini slices dry using paper towels to eliminate excess moisture.
03 - Combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl.
04 - Dip each zucchini slice into beaten eggs, then coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
05 - Place the breaded zucchini slices in a single layer within the air fryer basket; optionally, lightly spray with olive oil.
06 - Cook in batches for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chips are golden brown and crispy.
07 - Present immediately as a snack or side dish.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They taste indulgent and crispy but are actually light enough to eat without guilt.
  • Ready in under 30 minutes from prep to plate, with barely any cleanup.
  • Your garden zucchini finally has a purpose beyond ratatouille.
  • Even people who claim to hate vegetables will ask for seconds.
02 -
  • Don't skip drying the zucchini—any moisture trapped inside will steam them no matter how hot your air fryer gets.
  • Air fryer baskets vary wildly; check around the 7-minute mark the first time to see how your specific machine browns them, then adjust accordingly.
  • The breadcrumb coating needs salt and seasoning mixed in before you use it, or the finished chips will taste bland.
03 -
  • Pat your zucchini completely dry—this is the secret that separates crispy from soggy, every single time.
  • Don't be shy with the oil spray if you want that deeply golden exterior and maximum crunch factor.
Return