Air Fryer Zucchini Sticks are a simple, crunchy snack that comes together in minutes and pleases kids and adults alike. Lightly seasoned and coated with cheesy panko, they make a great appetizer or weeknight side. If you love crispy air fryer snacks, try our air fryer mozzarella sticks for another cheesy treat.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Zucchini Sticks
- Super crispy with minimal oil for a lighter treat
- Ready in about 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights
- Kid-friendly and great for dipping parties
- Easy to meal prep and reheat without losing crunch
- Uses basic pantry ingredients you likely already have
Ingredients Needed
- Vegetables:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Binders:
- 1 egg
- Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Finish:
- Cooking spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the zucchinis into sticks about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
- In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Beat the egg in another bowl, then dip each zucchini stick in the egg and press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat.
- Place coated sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spray lightly with cooking spray, and cook 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions Air Fryer Zucchini Sticks
- Serve with marinara, ranch, or tzatziki for dipping.
- Add a squeeze of lemon and fresh parsley for brightness.
- Pair with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a light meal.
- Try alongside air fryer apple fries for a sweet-and-salty spread.
- Arrange on a platter with assorted sauces for parties.
Tips for Success Air Fryer Zucchini Sticks
- Pat zucchinis dry before coating to help crumbs adhere and stay crisp.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches for even browning.
- Use panko for extra crunch, and spray lightly with oil to get golden color.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
- For a cheesy twist, mix extra Parmesan into the breadcrumb coating and serve hot with marinara, similar to air fryer popper snacks like air fryer broccoli cheddar poppers.
Variations
Here are a few easy ways to change it up:
- Spicy: add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix.
- Dairy-free: use dairy-free breadcrumbs and omit Parmesan or use a vegan grated cheese.
- Herb crust: mix in chopped fresh basil or parsley with the breadcrumbs.
- Add-ins: toss a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
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Air Fryer Zucchini Sticks
Crispy and cheesy air fryer zucchini sticks, perfect as a snack or side dish for any gathering.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchinis
Coating
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred) For extra crunch, panko is recommended.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Binders
- 1 whole egg Beaten
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper To taste
Finish
- Cooking spray For spraying the air fryer basket
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the zucchinis into sticks about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
- In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Beat the egg in another bowl, then dip each zucchini stick in the egg and press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat.
Cooking
- Place coated sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spray lightly with cooking spray, and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
Pat zucchinis dry before coating to help crumbs adhere and stay crisp. Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches for even browning. Use panko for extra crunch, spray lightly with oil for a golden color. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for best texture.