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Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Bites

crispy air fryer zucchini bites - featured image

These crispy air fryer zucchini bites are a quick, healthy snack with a golden, crunchy exterior and tender zucchini inside. Perfect for potlucks, kids’ snacks, or a guilt-free treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 23 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry 2-3 medium zucchinis. Slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds, aiming for even thickness.
  2. Set up dredging stations: place 1/2 cup all-purpose flour in one bowl, beat 2 large eggs in a second bowl, and combine 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
  3. Dip each zucchini slice first in flour, shaking off excess, then in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press crumbs gently to ensure they stick. Place coated slices on a baking sheet or plate.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Arrange zucchini bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Spray the zucchini lightly with olive oil spray.
  7. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Add a couple more minutes if needed, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Remove bites and transfer to a cooling rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Pat zucchini dry if it releases a lot of moisture to avoid sogginess. Preheat the air fryer for best crispiness. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed. Flip halfway through cooking for even crisping. For gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free panko. For dairy-free, substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast and eggs with dairy-free milk or flax eggs.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini bites, air fryer snack, healthy snack, crispy zucchini, easy appetizer, gluten-free option, vegetarian snack