Easy Copycat Carl’s Jr. Fried Zucchini Recipe

Wash your 3 medium zucchini and trim off the ends. Slice into sticks about 3–4 inches long or cut into circles into ½ inch thick, keeping them uniform so they cook evenly and crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
Grab three bowls for the breading process. In Bowl 1, mix the 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon paprika. In Bowl 2, beat the 2 large eggs with a¼ cup milk. In Bowl 3, combine the 1 cup breadcrumbs with ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese for that golden, cheesy crunch.
Dip each zucchini first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, coat it in the egg wash, letting the extra drip off. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix until fully coated. Repeat with all the zucchini.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the zucchini sticks in a single layer without overcrowding. Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Remove the zucchini sticks from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or spicy aioli for a perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish.