Print

Best Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Chips Recipe

crispy air fryer parmesan zucchini chips - featured image

These crispy parmesan zucchini chips are quick, easy, and perfect for snacking. Made in the air fryer, they deliver a satisfying crunch with tender zucchini inside, all without the guilt of deep-frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium zucchini (about 810 ounces each), sliced into ¼-inch rounds
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika recommended)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (plus more for drawing moisture out of zucchini)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Olive oil spray (or avocado oil spray)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep the zucchini: Wash and dry the zucchini. Slice into ¼-inch rounds, aiming for about 24-30 slices total.
  2. Draw out the moisture: Place zucchini slices in a colander, sprinkle with about ½ teaspoon salt, and let sit for 10 minutes. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  3. Set up breading station: In three shallow bowls, place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper in the third.
  4. Bread the zucchini: Working one slice at a time, dredge in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg wash, then press into breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly. Place on a plate.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
  6. Lightly spray air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange breaded zucchini in a single layer without overcrowding (work in batches if needed).
  7. Lightly spray tops with olive oil. Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through (at 5 minutes, flip and spray again). Cook until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Transfer to a cooling rack or paper towel-lined plate. Let cool 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with extra salt if desired and garnish with parsley.

Notes

Don’t skip salting the zucchini to draw out moisture—it’s crucial for crispiness. Use a 1:1 ratio of panko to Parmesan for best texture. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding. For oven baking, use 425°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer zucchini chips, parmesan zucchini chips, crispy zucchini chips, healthy snack, air fryer recipe, zucchini recipe