Crispy Breaded Air Fryer Zucchini Sticks
Crispy Breaded Air Fryer Zucchini Sticks are a quick and crunchy snack, perfect for dipping and family-friendly.
Ingredients
Veggies
- 1 medium zucchini (about 8 to 12 ounces), cut into sticks Be sure to cut into sticks about 2½" long by ½" wide.
Coating
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour For dredging.
- 1 large egg, beaten Used for binding the breadcrumbs.
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned panko breadcrumbs Provides a crunchy texture.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Optional for added flavor.
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus additional for sprinkling on the finished sticks) Enhances flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper To taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder For flavor.
Oil
- as needed spray Oil spray (light olive oil for frying or avocado oil) For air frying.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the zucchini into sticks about 2½" long by ½" wide and pat dry with a paper towel.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, beat the egg.
- In a third shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
Breading
- Lightly dredge each zucchini stick in the flour mixture, tapping gently to remove excess flour.
- Dip into the beaten egg, letting extra egg drip off.
- Dip each zucchini stick into the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing so breadcrumbs adhere.
Cooking
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F; if it doesn't have a preheat cycle, just turn it on to 400°F and let it heat up for 5 minutes.
- Working in batches, place zucchini sticks in a single layer with space between them.
- Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes or until browned and crispy, flipping once and lightly spraying the other side with oil halfway through.
- Serve immediately and lightly sprinkle with salt if desired.
Notes
Dry the zucchini well before breading to help the coating stick and crisp. Don't overcrowd the basket; air needs to circulate for even browning. Lightly spray the sticks with oil before and after flipping for extra crunch. If saving leftovers, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to re-crisp.