If you’re looking for a guilt-free, crispy snack or side dish, Air Fryer Zucchini Fries Panko is a perfect option! Thanks to the air fryer, you get all the crunch of deep-fried zucchini fries without the extra oil and calories. Plus, this recipe is quick and easy, coming together in less than 30 minutes.
1. Air Fryer Zucchini Fries Panko
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into sticks (about 3-4 inches long)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but adds great flavor)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray (or another cooking spray)
Optional Dipping Sauces
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Aioli or garlic mayo
Equipment:
- Air fryer
- Shallow bowls for breading
- Tongs or fork for dipping
- Baking sheet (for prep space)
Instructions
Step 1. Prep the Zucchini
Wash and dry the zucchinis. Cut off the ends, then slice them into fry-like sticks, about 3-4 inches long and ½ inch thick. Try to make them uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
Step 2. Set Up the Breading Station
Prepare three shallow bowls:
Bowl 1: Place the flour, salt, and pepper.
Bowl 2: Beat the eggs until smooth.
Bowl 3: Mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Step 3. Bread the Zucchini Fries
Working in batches, dredge each zucchini stick first in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Next, dip the zucchini into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Finally, roll the zucchini stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to make sure the coating sticks.
Step 4. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Preheating ensures the fries cook evenly and get crispy.
Step 5. Air Fry the Zucchini Fries
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
Place the breaded zucchini fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. You may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Spray the tops of the fries lightly with more olive oil spray for extra crispiness.
Air fry the zucchini fries at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent overcooking.
Step 6. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, carefully remove the zucchini fries from the air fryer using tongs and place them on a serving platter.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
2. Tips for Perfect Zucchini Fries
Pat the Zucchini Dry: Zucchini has a high water content, so pat the sticks dry with a paper towel before breading. This helps the coating adhere better and prevents sogginess.
Use Panko for Extra Crunch: If you want extra-crispy fries, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko is lighter and creates a crispier texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the crispiest results, place the zucchini fries in a single layer with space between them. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of crisp.
Serve Immediately: Zucchini fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer when they’re at their crispiest. If left to sit, they may soften slightly.
3. Serving Suggestions
As a Side Dish: Pair these crispy zucchini fries with a grilled chicken sandwich, burgers, or pizza for a tasty side dish.
As an Appetizer: Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces at your next party or family gathering to impress your guests with a healthier appetizer option.
In a Salad: For a fun and crunchy addition, toss these zucchini fries on top of a Caesar salad or any green salad for added texture.
4. Variations
Spicy Zucchini Fries: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free Zucchini Fries: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almond flour in place of regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Low-Carb Zucchini Fries: For a keto-friendly version, replace the breadcrumbs with a mixture of almond flour and crushed pork rinds.
Cheesy Zucchini Fries: Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese over the fries after they’ve been air-fried for a cheesy version.
5. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store leftover zucchini fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They may lose some of their crispiness but will still be delicious.
Reheating: To reheat, place the fries back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes until they are warmed through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave, as it will make the fries soggy.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze zucchini fries before air frying?
Yes! You can prepare the zucchini fries up to the breading stage and then freeze them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to cook, air fry them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How do I prevent zucchini fries from getting soggy?
To avoid soggy zucchini fries, make sure to pat the zucchini dry before breading. Also, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—give the fries enough space to crisp up evenly. Spraying a little oil on the fries before air frying will also help achieve a crispy texture.
Can I make these fries without breadcrumbs?
Yes! For a lower-carb or gluten-free option, you can use almond flour or crushed pork rinds as a substitute for breadcrumbs. Alternatively, you can skip the breading altogether and simply season the zucchini before air frying for a lighter version.
Air fryer zucchini fries panko is a crispy, flavorful, and healthy alternative to traditional fries. With minimal oil and a quick cooking time, they’re a great way to enjoy zucchini in a fun and delicious form. Whether you’re looking for a side dish, snack, or appetizer, these zucchini fries are bound to become a favorite in your household.
