Air Fryer Breaded Zucchini

Air Fryer Breaded Zucchini — Are you looking for something crispy, crunchy, and oh-so-delicious? Then air fryer breaded zucchini is the perfect snack to satisfy those cravings! This dish comes together easily in just a few steps and packs plenty of flavor with minimal effort.

Not only will your taste buds be dancing with delight, but it’s also healthier than traditional deep-fried food too. And because it’s so fast to prepare, it can make an excellent weeknight meal when served alongside colorful side dishes or as an appetizer at any party. So get ready for a delicious treat that won’t break the calorie bank – let’s make air fryer breaded zucchini tonight!

The Best Breaded Zucchini Recipe

If you’re looking for a mouthwatering way to enjoy zucchini, look no further! This blog post presents the best-breaded zucchini recipe that will leave you craving more. This delightful dish combines the natural goodness of zucchini with crispy and flavorful breading. Whether you’re looking for a tasty appetizer, a side dish, or a healthy snack, this recipe will surely impress. Get ready to savor the perfect balance of textures and flavors with this irresistible breaded zucchini recipe.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Breaded Zucchini

Air fryer breaded zucchini is a fun way to spice up the classic summer side dish. Not only is it delicious, but it’s actually pretty healthy too! The air frying ensures that your zucchini gets nice and crunchy without dumping it into deep-frying oil and getting dried out a batter. However, certain ingredients are needed to make this tasty treat just right.

From the type of flour, you’ll use for the coating to what herbs enhance flavor, read on for all your ingredient checklist needs before firing up the air fryer and making some delectable treats!

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page, as well as the nutritional information.

• Small to medium zucchini
• Bread crumbs (preferably panko)
• Flour: Use all-purpose flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour
• Milk: Use whole milk, almond milk, or coconut milk
• Egg: Use a large egg
• Paprika
• Kosher Salt
• Cooking spray or olive oil

How To Make Breaded Zucchini In Air Fryer

It’s time to take your zucchini game up a notch! Making breaded zucchini in an air fryer is the ideal way to get that crunchy, delicious coating without frying it in oil. You end up with flavorful and crispy breaded zucchini, and it makes for a much healthier dish than traditional deep-fried versions. And the best part? It requires minimal effort and comes together quickly.

Below, we will discuss exactly how to make delicious breaded zucchini using an air fryer – from prepping the veggies to adding seasoning and choosing the right breading – so let’s begin!

Step One: Prepare The Zucchini

Preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees F for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the zucchini cooks evenly and gets a crispy texture. Wash the zucchini thoroughly and cut them into evenly sized sticks or rounds. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ to ½ inch slices for even cooking.

Step Two: Set up the breading station

Pour flour (3 tbsp) into a plastic bag and put zucchini there. Tie the ends of the bag and shake gently a few times.

Each piece of zucchini will be evenly coated with flour. Beat an egg into another bowl. Add flour, milk, salt, and also paprika, and mix everything thoroughly with a whisk. If you see that the batter is too liquid, add more flour; if too thick, pour in a little milk.

Step Three: Dredge The Sliced Zucchini

Roll the floured zucchini circles in the thick dough on both sides. In another bowl, pour breadcrumbs and roll each circle of zucchini in breadcrumbs so they are completely covered.

Step Four: Air Fry Breaded Zucchini

 Place the zucchini pieces in the air fryer basket, set the air fryer temperature to 360 degrees F, and set the cooking time for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway during the cooking process.

Step Five: Serving

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips For Cooking Breaded Zucchini In Air Fryer

To achieve the best results when cooking breaded zucchini in an air fryer, here are some pro tips to keep in mind:

• Slice the zucchini evenly: Cut the zucchini into slices or sticks of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. This helps prevent some pieces from overcooking while others remain undercooked.
• Preheat the air fryer: Preheating the air fryer before cooking helps create a crispier exterior on the breaded zucchini. Give the air fryer a few minutes to heat up before adding the zucchini.
• Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs tend to have a crispier coating than regular breadcrumbs. If possible, use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
• Spray or brush with oil: Lightly spray or brush the breaded zucchini with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil. This helps promote browning and adds extra crispiness to the coating.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket: Place the breaded zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure there is enough space between each piece. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking and a less crispy texture.
• Shake or flip halfway through cooking: To ensure even browning and crispiness, shake the air fryer basket or flip the zucchini halfway through the cooking process. This helps all sides cook evenly.
• Experiment with seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and spices to add variety to your breaded zucchini. Add herbs, spices, or grated cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
• Serve immediately: Breaded zucchini is best enjoyed immediately after cooking while it is still warm and crispy. Serve it as a side dish, appetizer, or snack to fully appreciate its texture and flavor.
• Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the zucchini and the specific model of the air fryer. Keep a close eye on the zucchini as they cook, and adjust the cooking time if needed to achieve your desired level of crispiness.

By following these pro tips, you can create perfectly crispy and delicious breaded zucchini in your air fryer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Breaded Zucchini In Air Fryer

What type of zucchini works best for breaded zucchini in an air fryer?

Choosing medium-sized zucchini in an air fryer for breaded zucchini is best. Look for zucchini that is firm and without any soft spots or blemishes. The size should be manageable for slicing into uniform pieces.

Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs for breaded zucchini in the air fryer?

Yes, you can absolutely use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make breaded zucchini in an air fryer. Many gluten-free breadcrumb options are available, such as ones made from rice, corn, or gluten-free grains. Simply substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs in the recipe and follow the same process.

How do I prevent the breading from sticking to the air fryer basket?

To prevent the breaded zucchini from sticking to the air fryer basket, lightly grease it with cooking spray or a drizzle of oil before placing it in it. This helps create a non-stick surface and makes it easier to remove the cooked zucchini without the breading stick.

Can I refrigerate or reheat leftover breaded zucchini?

While breaded zucchini is best enjoyed fresh and crispy, you can refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, preheat your air fryer again and cook the leftover breaded zucchini for a few minutes until warmed through. Note that the texture may not be as crispy as when freshly cooked.

Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini for breaded vegetables in the air fryer?

Absolutely! The air fryer is versatile and can be used to make breaded vegetables with various types of veggies. You can try using eggplant, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even cauliflower florets. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the vegetable you choose.

Can I freeze breaded zucchini and cook it in the air fryer later?

It’s generally not recommended to freeze breaded zucchini before cooking. Freezing can alter the texture of the coating, resulting in a less crispy and more soggy outcome. It’s best to cook breaded zucchini fresh in the air fryer for the best results.

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