36 Easy Air Fryer Recipes You'll Make Over and Over Again

If you’ve recently joined the air fryer craze, you’re in for a treat! These popular kitchen appliances make whipping up delicious meals easier and healthier than ever before. Say goodbye to greasy frying pans and the deep fryer, and hello to easy Air Fryer recipes you’ll make repeatedly.

Collage of dinner recipes using an air fryer.

In this roundup, we’ve gathered some of our favorite air fryer recipes you’ll want to make repeatedly. Whether you’re craving something savory or have a sweet tooth to satisfy, there’s something here for everyone.

Why You’ll Love These Recipes

Healthier Cooking: These healthy air fryer recipes use significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, making your delicious meal lower in fat and calories while retaining a crispy texture.
Quick and Convenient: Many air fryer recipes take less time than conventional ovens due to the circulating hot air, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
Versatility: From appetizers and main courses to desserts, there’s virtually no limit to what you can prepare in an air fryer.
Easy Cleanup: Most air fryer components are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze and saving you time in the kitchen.

Tips for Using Your Air Fryer

Preheating your air fryer is vital for even cooking and perfect crispiness, just like with traditional ovens. Most models only need a few minutes to preheat, so they won’t add much to your cooking time. Also, don’t overcrowd the basket to ensure your food cooks evenly and gets that crispy exterior you want.

Remember to flip or shake your food halfway through for even browning and better results. Air fryers are super versatile, so experiment with different seasonings and spices to find your perfect flavor combo.

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Recipes

Cooking chicken in an air fryer is a game-changer for busy cooks and food enthusiasts alike. Not only does it cut down on cooking time, but it also delivers tender, juicy chicken with a deliciously crispy exterior. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or prepping for a family gathering, these air fryer chicken recipes will surely become your favorite.

Chicken and waffles sitting on a white plate drizzled with maple syrup. — Photo credit: Kim Schob.

The Best Air Fryer Chicken and Waffles: This recipe combines crispy, juicy chicken with fluffy waffles for a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for brunch or dinner. This easy air-fryer recipe ensures the chicken is cooked to perfection without the extra grease, while the homemade waffles add a deliciously sweet touch. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household for its delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Air Fryer Greek Chicken Kabobs With Tzatziki: These Greek-inspired chicken kabobs are a hit for both dinner parties and casual weeknight meals. Marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs, the chicken bursts with flavor and remains incredibly tender. Cooking the kabobs in the air fryer ensures they have a perfectly crisp exterior. Serve them with homemade tzatziki sauce for an authentic touch, making this recipe a healthy and delicious option you’ll return to time and time again.
Air Fryer Chicken Legs: This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy tender and juicy chicken legs with a crispy skin. The air fryer ensures even cooking and a perfect texture, making it a simple yet delicious option for any meal. Marinated with a blend of spices, these chicken legs are bursting with flavor and are sure to be a hit at your next dinner.
Air Fryer Chicken and Cabbage: This recipe combines the savory taste of chicken with the fresh crunch of cabbage, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer. It’s a healthy and satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner. The cabbage absorbs the flavors from the chicken, creating a delicious and nutritious meal.
Air Fryer Buffalo Drumsticks: This recipe brings the classic buffalo flavor to chicken drumsticks, making them a perfect appetizer or main course. The air fryer gives the drumsticks a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Coated in a spicy buffalo sauce, these drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings – Extra Crispy: This recipe delivers ultra-crispy chicken wings without the need for deep frying. The air fryer ensures the wings are perfectly cooked, with a crunchy exterior and tender meat. Tossed in your favorite sauce, these wings are perfect for game day or a casual get-together.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken: This recipe allows you to cook a whole chicken to perfection in the air fryer. The result is a juicy and flavorful chicken with a crispy skin, perfect for a family dinner. The air fryer cuts down on cooking time and ensures even cooking, making it an easy and efficient way to prepare a roast chicken.
Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs: This recipe features tender and flavorful chicken meatballs, cooked to perfection in the air fryer. They are a versatile option that can be served as an appetizer, added to pasta, or enjoyed in a sub. The air fryer ensures they are evenly cooked with a crispy exterior.
Air Fryer Blackened Chicken: This recipe offers a deliciously spiced blackened chicken that is juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The air fryer locks in the flavors and cooks the chicken evenly, making it a quick and easy option for a flavorful meal. Perfectly seasoned, this chicken pairs well with a variety of sides.
Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders: This recipe brings the bold flavors of buffalo sauce to crispy chicken tenders. The air fryer makes these tenders crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside, while the buffalo sauce adds a spicy kick. These tenders are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or main dish, especially when paired with a cooling dip.

Greek chicken kabobs with bell pepper and a cloth in the background. — Photo Credit: Kim Schob.

Dinner Recipes In The Air Fryer

Transform your dinner routine with these mouth-watering air fryer recipes that are both easy and delectable. From crispy fish to perfectly cooked steak, these dinner recipes will have you reaching for your air fryer night after night. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal after a hectic day or a show-stopping dish to impress your guests, these recipes deliver every time with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Air Fryer Sausage Kolaches | kimschob.com — Photo credit: Kim Schob.

7 Ingredient Air Fryer Sausage Kolaches: This delicious recipe is a perfect breakfast option that’s both quick and easy. With just seven ingredients, you can whip up these kolaches in no time. The savory sausage paired with the soft, slightly sweet dough creates a delightful contrast that will have you reaching for seconds. Ideal for busy mornings or a weekend treat, these kolaches are sure to become a staple in your breakfast rotation.
Air Fryer Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza: Recreate the famous Taco Bell Mexican Pizza at home with this easy air fryer recipe. This copycat version captures all the flavors and textures you love, from the seasoned ground beef and refried beans to the crispy tortilla shells.
Air Fryer Hot Dogs: This recipe makes hot dogs an easy and delicious dinner option. The air fryer gives the hot dogs a grilled flavor with a crispy exterior. Served with your favorite toppings, these hot dogs are quick to prepare and perfect for a casual dinner.
Garlic & Paprika Air Fryer Salmon: This recipe features salmon fillets seasoned with garlic and paprika, cooked to perfection in the air fryer. The result is a tender and flavorful fish with a slightly crispy exterior. It’s a healthy and delicious dinner that’s ready in minutes.
Air Fryer Shrimp – fresh or frozen: This recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy shrimp, whether fresh or frozen. The air fryer cooks the shrimp perfectly, giving them a juicy and tender texture. Seasoned with your favorite spices, these shrimp make a great dinner option when served with a side of vegetables or rice.
Air Fryer Steak: This recipe provides a simple and effective way to cook a juicy steak in the air fryer. The steak comes out tender and perfectly cooked, with a delicious sear on the outside. It’s an impressive dinner that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy any steak lover.
Air Fryer Brats: This recipe makes bratwursts a quick and tasty dinner option. The air fryer cooks the brats evenly, giving them a nice char and juicy interior. Served with sauerkraut or your favorite toppings, these brats are perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal.
The Best Air Fryer Salmon Recipe (With Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce): This recipe features salmon fillets cooked in the air fryer and topped with a delicious garlic lemon butter sauce. The air fryer ensures the salmon is flaky and moist while the sauce adds a burst of flavor. It’s a healthy and elegant dinner option that’s easy to make.
Easy Southern Dressing (Stuffing) in the Air Fryer: This recipe brings the flavors of Southern-style dressing to the air fryer. The dressing is crispy on the outside and moist on the inside, with a perfect blend of herbs and spices. It’s a comforting and delicious side dish that can also be enjoyed as a main course.
Easy Air Fryer Meatloaf: This recipe makes meatloaf a quick and easy dinner option using the air fryer. The meatloaf is moist and flavorful, with a deliciously crispy crust. It’s a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
5-Minutes Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza (High Protein!): This recipe transforms tortillas into crispy and delicious personal pizzas in just five minutes. Topped with your favorite ingredients, these tortilla pizzas are a quick and easy dinner option that’s both tasty and nutritious.
Air Fryer Naan Pizza: This recipe uses naan bread as the base for a quick and easy pizza cooked in the air fryer. The naan becomes perfectly crispy, while the toppings are hot and melty. It’s a versatile and delicious dinner option that can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

A plate of copycat Taco Bell Pizza with a sachet of sauces and an air fryer in the background. — Photo credit: Kim Schob.

Other Easy Air Fryer Recipes

Looking to expand your air fryer repertoire beyond the basics? Our collection of other easy air fryer recipes highlights the versatility of this fantastic appliance. From breakfast staples to tasty snacks, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to add to your weekly meal plan. Get ready to discover new favorites and take your air frying skills to the next level!

Roasted potatoes with parmesan in a white bowl. — Photo credit: Kim Schob.

Air Fryer Egg Sandwich: This recipe is a quick and satisfying option for breakfast or brunch. Using an air fryer to cook the eggs ensures they are perfectly done every time, while the toasted bread and melted cheese elevate this simple sandwich to a whole new level. sty, energy-boosting meal.
Air Fryer Hot Pockets with Ham and Cheese: Satisfy your cravings with these homemade hot pockets filled with ham and cheese, perfect for a quick lunch or snack. The air fryer gives the pockets a golden, crispy crust while keeping the filling warm and gooey. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a comfort food classic without the hassle.
Easy Air Fryer BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich: Savor the rich, smoky flavors of BBQ pulled pork sandwiches with this easy air fryer recipe. Cooked to perfection, the pork is tender and juicy, enveloped in a flavorful barbecue sauce. The high heat of the air fryer ensures the meat develops a beautiful, slightly crispy exterior while staying succulent inside.
Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes: Elevate your side dishes with these perfectly roasted potatoes made effortlessly in the air fryer. This recipe delivers crispy, golden-brown potatoes with a tender, fluffy interior. Seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, these potatoes are bursting with savory flavor. Ideal for any meal, from breakfast to dinner, these air fryer roasted potatoes are a must-try for their simplicity and deliciousness.
7 Ingredient Easy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Fries: These garlic parmesan fries are a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. With just seven ingredients, including fresh potatoes, garlic, parmesan cheese, and a few basic seasonings, you can create this delicious recipe in no time.
Air Fryer Mashed Potato Bites with Bacon: These delightful mashed potato bites with bacon are the perfect savory snack or appetizer. Made with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon bits, and a blend of cheeses, these bites are incredibly flavorful and satisfying. The air fryer gives them a perfectly crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and delicious.
Air Fryer Banana Bread: This recipe offers a delightful way to make banana bread using an air fryer. The bread comes out moist and perfectly baked, with a delicious banana flavor. It’s a great option for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, and it’s quick to prepare with minimal cleanup.
Vegan Air Fryer Cookies With Chocolate Chips: This recipe provides a vegan-friendly way to enjoy chocolate chip cookies. The air fryer ensures the cookies are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. These cookies are a delicious treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the need for traditional baking.
Air Fryer Sugar Cookies: This recipe simplifies the process of making sugar cookies by using an air fryer. The cookies come out golden and crispy, with a classic sweet flavor. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick dessert or a fun baking project with kids.
Easy Air Fryer Brownies: This recipe allows you to make rich and fudgy brownies using an air fryer. The brownies have a perfect texture, with a crispy top and a gooey center. It’s a quick and easy way to satisfy your chocolate cravings without using an oven.
Air Fryer French Fries, Extra Crispy: This recipe delivers perfectly crispy french fries without the need for deep frying. The air fryer ensures the fries are evenly cooked and golden brown. They’re a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fries, perfect as a side dish or snack.
Air Fryer Acorn Squash (Savory & Vegan): This recipe offers a savory and vegan-friendly way to enjoy acorn squash. The air fryer cooks the squash to a tender perfection, with a slightly crispy exterior. It’s a nutritious and delicious side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Air Fryer S’mores: This recipe brings the classic campfire treat indoors with the help of an air fryer. The s’mores come out perfectly gooey and melty, with crispy graham crackers and chocolate. It’s a fun and easy dessert that’s perfect for any time of year.
Air Fryer Pumpkin: This recipe provides a simple and delicious way to prepare pumpkin in the air fryer. The pumpkin pieces are perfectly roasted with a tender texture and slightly crispy edges. It’s a nutritious and tasty side dish or snack that’s easy to make.

Five mashed potato balls sitting on a black skillet with dipping sauce on the side. — Photo credit: Kim Schob.

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Serving Suggestions

Breakfast Recipes: For a complete breakfast experience, pair your air fryer breakfast recipes with a fresh fruit salad or a smoothie. Adding a yogurt parfait with granola can provide a delightful balance of textures and nutrients. Refine these quick and delicious morning meals with freshly brewed coffee or tea.
Dinner Recipes: Enhance your air fryer dinner recipes by serving them with a vibrant side salad or roasted vegetables. A crusty loaf of bread or dinner rolls can also be a nice addition, perfect for soaking up any delicious sauces. Consider pairing your main course with a glass of your favorite wine or a refreshing homemade lemonade for a well-rounded meal.
Other Easy Air Fryer Recipes: These versatile recipes can be served with various accompaniments. Add dipping sauces like ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup to elevate the flavors. Serve with a simple side dish like coleslaw, steamed vegetables, or a light soup to create a more filling and balanced meal. For a snack or appetizer, add a platter of crudité or a selection of cheeses and crackers for an inviting spread.

FAQs

How do I prevent food from sticking to the air fryer basket?

To prevent food from sticking to the air fryer basket, lightly coat the basket with cooking spray or brush it with a small amount of oil before placing the food inside. Additionally, avoid using too much oil on the food itself as this can also cause sticking. Using parchment paper or silicone baking mats specifically designed for air fryers can further help to reduce sticking.

Can I cook multiple items at once in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook multiple items at once in the air fryer, but it’s important to ensure that there is enough space between pieces for proper air circulation. Overcrowding the basket can result in uneven cooking. If you find that the basket is too full, cook the items in batches for the best results. Some air fryers also come with divider racks or multi-tiered shelves to facilitate cooking multiple items simultaneously.

What type of oil should I use in an air fryer?

When using an air fryer, opt for oils with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, as these can withstand the high temperatures typically used in air frying without breaking down. Olive oil can be used, but its lower smoke point means it should be used sparingly or at lower temperatures. Consider using an oil spray for even application and better control over the amount used.

How do I clean my air fryer properly?

To clean your air fryer, first allow it to cool completely. Remove the basket and any other removable parts and wash them in warm, soapy water. Some air fryer components are dishwasher safe, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure. Wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer with a damp cloth, avoiding abrasive sponges or harsh cleaning agents that could damage the non-stick coating. Regular cleaning after each use helps maintain both hygiene and performance.

What foods are best suited for air frying?

Air fryers excel at cooking a variety of foods, particularly those that you want to have a crispy exterior. Popular choices include chicken wings, fries, vegetables, fish, and even baked goods like cookies or pastries. Experiment with different recipes to find what works best for you, but avoid foods with wet batters, as these can drip and create a mess. For best results, ensure foods are evenly cut and similar in size to promote uniform cooking.