This crispy breaded zucchini recipe makes a quick and simple side dish that goes well with anything. Only 3 ingredients needed for this oven-baked summer vegetable recipe!

Bookmark this zucchini recipe in your “classic reliable” section because you are going to want this zucchini several times a month! Three simple ingredients and about 30 minutes can give you the perfect side dish. The zucchini and squash get wonderfully tender inside a crisp, well-seasoned breading you will love! Even better: It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and nut-free!

Crispy Zucchini Ingredients

Here is a quick overview of what you will need for this easy air fryer side dish. Find exact measurements in the printable recipe card below.

• Zucchini and/or squash – Cut into small pieces, pat dry with a towel. Feel free to use all one or the other. They cook the same and are both delicious in this recipe!
• Mayonnaise – This is an excellent binder because the thick, oil-based mayo does a great job of holding the breading onto the water-based vegetable while still keeping the breading crisp!
• Zatarain’s seasoned fish breading – Skip measuring seasonings because this cornmeal mixture has it all included! I used the classic “seasoned” version, but there are other varieties like Cajun and Lemon Pepper you could use, too!
• Spray oil – The breaded naturally gets pretty crisp, but you will get the nicest crunch and best browned color by lightly spraying the breaded zucchini with oil right before cooking.

How to make crispy breaded zucchini

This side dish is so easy; you just need a mixing bowl and a baking sheet. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Season the chopped veggies

Start by preheating the oven to 400 degrees F. While that warms up, toss the squash and zucchini with mayonnaise until well coated. Sprinkle in the breading and toss until fully covered.

Bake until crispy

Pour the coated squash onto a greased baking sheet, spreading in a single layer. Spray the breaded zucchini liberally with oil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and carefully turn the zucchini. Spray it again with oil and bake another 10-15 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

What to serve with breaded zucchini

This is such a versatile side dish that you will enjoy with nearly any entree or protein! Try it with pork tenderloin, steak, stuffed chicken, or salmon. For a fully vegetarian meal, it’s a great side with these Tuscan-inspired stuffed portobellos. For a southern garden twist on classic fish and chips, serve breaded zucchini with this crispy fried fish!

More entrees to serve with zucchini:

• Crispy Chicken Sandwiches
• Lemon Garlic Fish
• The BEST Air Fryer Turkey Burger
• Buffalo Chicken Sliders
• Air Fryer Crab Cakes

Storage and Reheating

Allow the breaded zucchini to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator up to 3-5 days. To keep the breading crisp, I recommend placing a paper towel in the container as well.

To reheat, place on a baking sheet in an even layer and bake for 5-10 minutes, occasionally flipping/tossing/stirring so all sides crisp up. You could also air fry your leftovers for 2-4 minutes at 350 degrees instead.

Important Tips

Consider the shape of zucchini and freshness when trying to estimate cooking time. Above all, keep an eye on them and remove from oven once they reach your desired crispness.

• Shape: Large chunks and whole rounds will take longer to cook and crisp up. Thinner slices will crisp up quicker but are more at risk of burning.
• Freshness: Zucchini and squash have a very high moisture content when freshly picked (could require more time to crisp up) but will lose some of that moisture after several days in the fridge (so those may crisp up faster).

More easy side dish recipes

• Crispy Air Fryer Okra (also uses the Zatarain’s seasoning!)
• Air Fryer Baby Potatoes
• Air Fryer Squash
• Crispy Diced Sweet Potatoes
• Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts