Name: Crispy Fried Zucchini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium fresh zucchini, sliced into rounds or sticks; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular); 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Vegetable oil, for frying

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This fried zucchini recipe is the perfect combination of crispy and tender. It’s easy to make, uses simple pantry ingredients, and can be served with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or aioli. It’s a crowd-pleaser at parties, game nights, or as a fun side dish for dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh zucchini, sliced into rounds or sticks
All-purpose flour
Eggs, beaten
Breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
Parmesan cheese, grated
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt and black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

Slice zucchini into even rounds or sticks. Pat dry with a paper towel.
Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat each zucchini piece in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
Fry zucchini in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

Serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Baked Version: Bake breaded zucchini at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Air Fryer: Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy.
Cheesy Twist: Add extra Parmesan or shredded mozzarella to the breadcrumb coating.
Spicy Zucchini: Mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into the breading.
Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the zucchini soggy.

FAQs

Can I slice the zucchini ahead of time?

Yes, but keep it wrapped in paper towels to absorb excess moisture.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Pat the zucchini dry before breading and press the coating firmly onto each piece.

Can I make this without Parmesan?

Yes, but Parmesan adds great flavor and extra crispiness.

Is it better to use panko or regular breadcrumbs?

Panko makes it crunchier, but regular breadcrumbs work too.

Can I use zucchini fries instead of rounds?

Yes, just slice zucchini into sticks instead of rounds.

How do I keep fried zucchini crispy?

Drain on paper towels and serve immediately. Reheat in the oven if needed.

What oil is best for frying?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil works well for frying.

Can I freeze fried zucchini?

It’s not recommended as zucchini becomes watery when thawed.

What dips go well with fried zucchini?

Ranch, marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo are all great choices.

Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?

Yes, yellow squash works the same way and tastes delicious.

Conclusion

Crispy fried zucchini is an easy and irresistible way to enjoy fresh zucchini. With its crunchy coating and tender inside, it’s a versatile snack, appetizer, or side dish that pairs well with a variety of dips. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.