Air fryer zucchini fries are a healthy and delicious snack, appetizer or side dish. It is a fun way to get in extra veggies and use up summer zucchini.

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These air fryer zucchini fries are crispy and crunchy on the outside and soft and tender on the inside. They make a delicious appetizer or side dish and a healthier alternative to French fries.

They require minimal ingredients and prep, and crisp up in half time they would take in the oven. The coating is a combination of seasoned regular and panko breadcrumbs tossed with parmesan cheese and seasonings.

A great benefit of air frying vs deep frying these zucchini fries is you still get all the crunch without the extra oil. This makes them a lower fat alternative to the deep fried and store bought kind, and a lower carb option than regular potato fries.

These air fryer zucchini fries pair well with a variety of dipping sauces (recipe below for a quick and easy aioli) as well as proteins and sides for a full meal.

Ingredients

Zucchini: you’ll want two medium sized zucchinis with as little curve to them as possible (makes cutting them into fries much easier).
Breadcrumbs: we will be using both regular and panko breadcrumbs for both optimal coverage and crunch.
Egg: beaten egg helps bind the breadcrumbs to the zucchini fries.
Parmesan cheese: parmesan adds delicious flavor and cheesiness.
Seasonings: the breadcrumbs are seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper.

Equipment

Air fryer
Dredging pans
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and knife

Instructions

Cut zucchini into matchsticks that are about 1/2 inch thick and 4 inches long. Pat zucchini matchsticks dry with a paper towel.

In one dredging pan (linked above) or shallow bowl, crack in the eggs and beat until frothy.

In the second dredging pan or shallow bowl, combine regular breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning salt and pepper.

Coat zucchini in beaten egg, then into breadcrumbs. Pat the breadcrumbs into the zucchini to ensure they stick.

Place zucchini fries onto greased air fryer basket. Spray zucchini fries with oil spray and air fry at 400°F for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside.

Note: depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to air fry the zucchini fries in two batches.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

Serving air fryer zucchini fries with a dipping sauce instantly elevates this recipe and can be served as a side or appetizer. Serve with a protein and another side for a complete meal.

Dipping sauces:

Basic aioli: 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 clove minced garlic, 1/2 tsp fresh minced parsley.

Chipotle mayo

Marinara

Ketchup

Protein:

Cilantro lime chicken

Veggie quinoa black bean burgers

Air fryer caprese chicken

Cheeseburgers

Hot dogs

Other sides:

Air fryer smashed potatoes

Honey roasted carrots with goat cheese

Corn on the cob

Rice pilaf

Tips

To cut the zucchini: cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then in half lengthwise again. Cut into even matchsticks, then cut in half widthwise to create shorter pieces.
Pat the zucchini fries completely dry before coating in egg and breadcrumbs, otherwise the breading will just slide right off.
When you are breading the zucchini fries, be sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly into the zucchini fries to ensure complete coverage.
Using an avocado or olive oil spray will help the zucchini fries crisp up and brown in the air fryer.

FAQ

How do I store air fryer zucchini fries?

Allow the zucchini fries to cool completely, then store in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How do I reheat air fryer zucchini fries?

Place leftover zucchini fries on air fryer basket and air fry at 375°F for 5-6 minutes, or until warmed through.

Can I bake these zucchini fries in the oven instead?

Yes, however they won’t get quite as crispy.

Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place zucchini fries on baking sheet, spray with oil spray and bake for 25 minutes, flipping zucchini fries once halfway through.

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If you make this Air Fryer Zucchini Fries, be sure to leave a comment below and rate this recipe! If you snap a pic, be sure to tag me on Instagram @thechowdown! I love seeing your creations!

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