Powell Family Cooking

  • Recipe Index
  • Summer Recipes
  • Little Chefs
  • About Us
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • Summer Recipes
  • Little Chefs
  • About Us
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipe Index
  • Summer Recipes
  • Little Chefs
  • About Us
×
You are here: Home / Recipes / Sides

Crispy Pan-Fried Zucchini with Panko

📋 Modified: Mar 12, 2025 Published: Jul 22, 2024 by 👩🏻‍🍳 Jami Powell · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Be the friend who shares good food.

  • Share
  • Tweet
  • Reddit
  • SMS
Jump to Recipe

Crispy Pan-Fried Zucchini with Panko is the perfect way to turn simple zucchini into a golden, crunchy side dish. Lightly coated in panko and skillet-fried, this recipe delivers an irresistible crispy texture—without deep frying!

Skillet zucchini with toasted panko hero image close up

Save This Recipe 💌

Enter your email below and we'll send it to your inbox. Plus, you'll get new recipes from us each week!

Pan-Fried Zucchini with Panko is a quick and easy side dish that turns fresh zucchini into crunchy perfection. The key to keeping it crisp is lightly salting the zucchini first to draw out excess moisture, then pan-frying it in a butter and olive oil blend for rich flavor.

Topped with toasted panko, this dish is low-carb, family-friendly, and ready in just 25 minutes.

If you like this side dish, you may also love our Zucchini Corn Fritters or our Fail-Proof Oven Roasted Corn on the Cob.

Jump to:
  • Why We Love This Recipe
  • Skillet Fried Zucchini Ingredients
  • Substitutions & Variations
  • How to Make Pan-Fried Zucchini
  • Expert Tips for Success
  • Storage
  • Recipe FAQs
  • More Side Dishes You'll Love ♥️
  • 📖 Recipe
  • 💬 Share Your Thoughts

Why We Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Just 25 minutes from start to finish.
  • Crispy Without Deep-Frying: Toasted panko adds crunch without heavy oil. Need more crispy side dish ideas? Try our Crispy Air Fryer Brussels!
  • Light & Healthy: Uses minimal ingredients for a fresh, low-carb dish.
  • Versatile: Serve as a side, snack, or pair with pasta or grilled meats.

Skillet Fried Zucchini Ingredients

A labeled ingredient shot of everything needed to make skillet fried zucchini with panko.
  • Zucchini: Fresh and mild-flavored, perfect for quick cooking.
  • Olive oil: Adds a rich, smooth flavor and helps in cooking.
  • Butter: Enhances the flavor and helps in browning.
  • Toasted Panko Breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy, crunchy texture. We love this ingredient on our Panko Breaded Chicken, too!
  • Salt: Essential for seasoning.
  • Pepper: Adds a touch of heat.
  • Garlic: Adds depth and aroma.
  • Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a nutty, savory flavor.

A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

Substitutions & Variations

  • Butter: Use ghee or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
  • Parmesan cheese: Substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
  • Olive oil: Avocado oil can be used as a healthy alternative.
  • Flavor: Add Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Pan-Fried Zucchini

Zucchini cut into rounds.

STEP 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Wash and slice the zucchini into ¼-inch thick rounds.

📌 Pro Tip: Lightly salt the zucchini and let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then pat dry. This prevents excess moisture from making the zucchini soggy and keeps the panko crisp.

Panko breadcrumbs toasting in skillet.

STEP 2: Toast the Panko

In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the panko breadcrumbs. Stir frequently until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Zucchini being pan fried in the skillet with oil and butter.

STEP 3: Cook the Zucchini

In a cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the zucchini slices in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches).

Cook the zucchini for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and tender.

Zucchini resting on wire rack topped with toasted panko.

STEP 4: Finish and Serve

Once all the zucchini is cooked, return all slices to the skillet. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and the toasted panko breadcrumbs over the top.

If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips for Success

👩‍🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!

✔️ DO Slice the zucchini evenly. Stick to ¼-inch or thicker slices so it doesn't turn mushy.
✔️ DO Lightly salt the zucchini to let it release excess moisture and pat it dry before frying.
✔️ DO Use a large skillet and cook in a single layer—overcrowding traps steam and makes zucchini soggy. Cook in batches if needed.
✔️ DO Toast the panko separately.
❌ DO NOT Salt zucchini while frying—this draws out moisture and prevents browning.
❌ DO NOT stir too often. Let zucchini sit undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side.

Storage

Store any leftover panko zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This dish is not freezer-friendly. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 375°F until crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the zucchini soggy.

Recipe FAQs

How can I make my pan-fried zucchini extra crispy?

To make your zucchini extra crispy, ensure they are sliced evenly and not too thick. Cook them in a single layer in the skillet to avoid steaming. Toasting the panko breadcrumbs separately before sprinkling them on top also adds an extra crunch.

What are some dipping sauces that pair well with zucchini?

Some great dipping sauces for Skillet Zucchini with Toasted Panko include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo. These add extra flavor and complement the crispy zucchini perfectly.

Should zucchini be salted before frying?

Salting zucchini draws out moisture and prevents sogginess. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then pat dry. This is helpful when frying without a coating, but for Pan Fried Zucchini with Panko, it's usually unnecessary since the panko absorbs moisture and keeps it crispy.

Fried zucchini with toasted panko in cast iron skillet.

More Side Dishes You'll Love ♥️

  • Air fryer spaghetti squash recipe with parmesan and garlic feature image close up with strands on fork.
    Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash
  • Cooked asparagus with cheese and panko in cast iron skillet.
    Asparagus with Cheese
  • Crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts with parmesan and garlic aioli feature image close up with dipping sauce and lemon.
    Crispy Brussels Sprouts (Air Fryer)
  • easy grilled summer squash asparagus and potatoes feature image. bbq side dish on stainless steel grill pan seasoned.
    Grilled Summer Squash, Asparagus, and Potatoes

Did You Like This Skillet-Fried Zucchini?

  • Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Star Rating if think this fried zucchini recipe is amazing!

📖 Recipe

Fried zucchini with toasted panko in cast iron skillet.

Crispy Pan-Fried Zucchini with Panko

Jami Powell
Crispy Pan-Fried Zucchini with Panko is the perfect way to turn simple zucchini into a golden, crunchy side dish. Lightly coated in panko and skillet-fried, this recipe delivers an irresistible crispy texture without deep frying. It’s quick, easy, and pairs well with just about any meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 2
Calories 173 kcal

Equipment

  • Cast iron skillet
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium zucchini sliced into rounds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ tablespoon butter
  • ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs toasted
  • 1 clove garlic, minced or ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese optional

Instructions
 

  • Wash and slice the zucchini into ¼-inch thick rounds. Lightly salt the rounds and let them sit for 10-15 minutes, then pat dry.
  • In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the panko breadcrumbs. Stir frequently until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • In a cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add the zucchini slices in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches).
  • Cook the zucchini for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and tender. Once all the zucchini is cooked, return all slices to the skillet.
  • Sprinkle salt, pepper, and the toasted panko breadcrumbs over the top. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Serve immediately.

Save This Recipe 💌

Enter your email below and we'll send it to your inbox. Plus, you'll get new recipes from us each week!

Notes

Storage Store any leftover panko zucchini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freeze This dish is not freezer-friendly.
Reheat Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 375°F until crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the zucchini soggy.
Substitutions
  • Butter: Use ghee or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
  • Parmesan cheese: Substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan version.
  • Olive oil: Avocado oil can be used as a healthy alternative.
Adjustments Cooking time may need to be adjusted based on the geography of the area (high vs. low elevation), cookware (stoneware vs traditional bakeware), and outdoor temperature if grilling.
Nutrition information is only an estimate

Nutrition

Calories: 173kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 5gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 181mgPotassium: 542mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 523IUVitamin C: 36mgCalcium: 93mgIron: 1mg
Did you make this recipe?Tag @powell.family.cooking on Instagram

Other Related Recipes

  • An Italian white bean salad in a wooden salad bowl with garnish.
    Italian White Bean Salad with Parmesan Vinaigrette
  • Creamy lemon orzo pasta in a white bowl with dill, feta, and lemon as garnish.
    Creamy Lemon Orzo Pasta with Feta
  • Cajun dirty rice with green onion garnish in a black bowl.
    Cajun Dirty Rice + Video
  • Cauliflower bites in white bowl with garnish and a side of garlic aioli.
    Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites

Be the friend who shares good food.

  • Share
  • Tweet
  • Reddit
  • SMS

Comments

No Comments

5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Professional image of the Powell family sitting on a rock at the beach.

This is us. ♥️
We began this journey together in 2020, not really knowing which direction to take. Much has changed over the years, but we remain dedicated to this endeavor. We hope you continue to visit.

More about us →

Summer Recipes

  • Panzanella salad on a white platter topped with burrata cheese, basil, and seasoning.
    Burrata Panzanella Platter with Heirloom Tomatoes
  • Quinoa cucumber salad with chickpeas, feta, and herbs in a decorative wooden bowl.
    Quinoa Cucumber Salad with Chickpeas, Feta, and Herbs
  • Fresh fruit salad tossed in a glass bowl and ready to serve.
    Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
  • Crunchy cucumber salad with garnish in a white bowl.
    Crunchy Cucumber Salad with Peanut Dressing
  • Pulled pork bbq with juices in white bowl with a large silver fork and cloth towel.
    Best Instant Pot Pulled Pork
  • Elote corn dip in molcajete bowl with garnish and chips.
    Creamy Elote Corn Dip (Mexican Street Corn Salad)
See more Summer →

Popular Recipes

  • A feature image of the scallop recipe with the linguine being twirled around a fork.
    Easy Bay Scallop Pasta Recipe (Lemon & Garlic Sauce)
  • Beef stroganoff without mushrooms feature image close up in skillet
    Creamy Beef Stroganoff without Mushrooms
  • garbanzo bean soup recipe with chorizo feature image close up
    Cuban Garbanzo Bean Soup with Chorizo
  • Feature image of fried grouper cheeks on a wire rack.
    Grouper Cheeks Recipe (Fried to Perfection)!
  • Bacon and Green Beans on a plate.
    Quick & Easy Southern Bacon and Green Beans
  • Sartin's signature deep fried bbq blue crabs copycat recipe feature image close up of fried crabs on platter on back deck next to a glass of white wine
    Sartin’s Signature Deep Fried BBQ Blue Crabs: Copycat Recipe

Footer

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Mailing List

  • Subscribe

Contact

  • Email

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2025 Powell Family Cooking, LLC

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non-necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
SAVE & ACCEPT

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.