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Crispy Zucchini Stacks with Cheese and Optional Chicken or Beef

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Golden, cheesy, and irresistibly crispy! 🧀🥒 These Zucchini Stacks are layered with melty cheese and your choice of savory chicken or beef—baked to perfection for the ultimate veggie-packed comfort dish. 🍗🔥 Whether served as a side, snack, or light main, they’re stacked with flavor and totally crave-worthy!

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style recommended)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano

Optional Protein Additions

  • 1 cup cooked shredded chicken or sliced beef, seasoned lightly with salt and pepper
  • 1/4 cup tomato or marinara sauce (optional, for extra moisture and flavor)

Recommended Tools

  • Baking sheet or air fryer
  • Mixing bowls (2–3)
  • Parchment paper (for baking)
  • Tongs or forks for coating
  • Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Slice and Prep the Zucchini

  • Wash the zucchinis thoroughly and pat them dry.
  • Slice each zucchini into 1/4-inch rounds, trying to keep the thickness uniform for even cooking.
  • Lay the slices on a clean towel or paper towel.
  • Sprinkle lightly with salt to draw out excess moisture.
  • Let sit for about 10–15 minutes.
  • Pat them dry again before breading.

2. Prepare the Breading Station

  • Place flour in a shallow dish.
  • In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
  • In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

3. Bread the Zucchini Rounds

  • Take one slice of zucchini and coat it lightly in flour.
  • Dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
  • Press it into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.
  • Repeat with all zucchini slices.
  • Set aside on a clean plate.

4. Cook the Zucchini

Oven Method

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Arrange breaded zucchini slices in a single layer.
  • Drizzle or brush lightly with olive oil.
  • Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until both sides are golden and crispy.

Air Fryer Method

  • Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place zucchini slices in a single layer in the basket.
  • Lightly spray with olive oil.
  • Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

5. Assemble the Stacks

  • Once zucchini slices are cooked, prepare to layer.
  • Choose 3 slices per stack—start with a base.
  • Add a small amount of mozzarella cheese on top.
  • Add some shredded chicken or beef, if using.
  • Add a second zucchini slice and repeat the layering.
  • Top with a final zucchini round and finish with more cheese.
  • Spoon a small amount of tomato sauce on top (optional).

6. Final Bake

  • Return the stacked zucchini rounds to the oven (or air fryer if it fits).
  • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for a browned, golden cheese topping.

Notes

  • Uniform Slices: Use a mandoline slicer if you want evenly cut zucchini slices. This helps with stacking and consistent cooking.
  • Salting Zucchini: Drawing out water with salt is key to avoid soggy stacks. Always pat dry thoroughly.
  • Breadcrumb Options: Italian-style breadcrumbs add flavor. Panko offers extra crunch. Choose based on your texture preference.
  • Protein Fillings: Keep meat thinly sliced or finely shredded so it doesn’t make stacks too thick or unstable.
  • Cheese Substitutes: Try fontina, gouda, or provolone if you want to experiment with different melting cheeses.
  • Vegetarian Version: Just skip the meat and load up with extra cheese and herbs.
  • Make Ahead: Breaded zucchini slices can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
  • Author: Rosa
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
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