Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips are a quick, light snack that turns summer squash into an irresistible crunch. They come together fast with simple pantry ingredients and make a perfect side or party nibble. If you love crunchy air fryer snacks, try my crispy mini blooming onions for more inspiration.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
- Light, crunchy texture with a golden Parmesan coating
- Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish
- Great for meal prep and quick after-school snacks
- Family-friendly, kid-approved finger food
- Reheats well for a second-day snack
Ingredients Needed
- Veggies
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch)
- Coating
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- Wet binder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Oil
- 1 spray olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by washing the zucchinis and slicing them into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- In another bowl, beat the egg until well combined.
- Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coat.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes and lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated zucchini chips in a single layer—avoid overcrowding. If you want other crunchy sides, try variations like air fryer crispy potatoes.
- Cook the zucchini chips in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the crispy zucchini chips and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving; repeat with any remaining slices.
Serving Suggestions Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
- Serve with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Top with extra grated Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Pair with grilled chicken or a fresh salad for a light meal.
- Offer alongside fun desserts like crispy air fryer apple pie taquitos for a playful menu pairing.
Tips for Success Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
- Slice evenly about 1/8 inch thick for uniform crisping.
- Pat slices very dry to help the coating stick and get crispy.
- Avoid overcrowding the basket; work in batches for best texture.
- Spray the tops lightly with olive oil to encourage deep golden color.
- Store leftovers in a single layer in the fridge and re-crisp in the air fryer briefly.
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 nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Herb-infused: Mix chopped fresh parsley or basil into the breadcrumbs for a fresh lift.
Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
A quick, light snack that turns summer squash into an irresistible crunch, ready in under 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Veggies
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch)
Coating
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Wet binder
- 1 large egg, beaten
Oil
- 1 spray olive oil
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by washing the zucchinis and slicing them into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- In another bowl, beat the egg until well combined.
- Dip each zucchini slice into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coat.
Cooking
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes and lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the coated zucchini chips in a single layer—avoid overcrowding.
- Cook the zucchini chips in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the crispy zucchini chips and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving; repeat with any remaining slices.
Notes
Slice evenly about 1/8 inch thick for uniform crisping. Pat slices very dry to help the coating stick and get crispy. Avoid overcrowding the basket; work in batches for best texture. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil to encourage deep golden color. Store leftovers in a single layer in the fridge and re-crisp in the air fryer briefly.