Air fryers have changed the way many people cook at home. These handy appliances let you make tasty meals with less oil and mess than traditional frying methods.

You can cook lots of different foods quickly and easily in an air fryer.

With the right recipes, you can make many dinners in your air fryer in 30 minutes or less. From crispy chicken to perfectly cooked salmon, the options are endless. Air fryer meals can be both healthy and full of flavor.

You’ll find recipes for family favorites as well as new dishes to try.

1. Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Air fryer chicken wings are a tasty and easy dinner option. They turn out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

You can make them with just a few simple ingredients.

To start, coat fresh chicken wings with oil and your favorite seasonings. Place them in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd.

Cook the wings at 390°F for about 20 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even crispiness.

The exact time may vary based on your air fryer model and wing size.

These wings are great on their own or with dipping sauces. Try them with BBQ sauce, ranch, or buffalo sauce for extra flavor. Serve with a side of veggies for a complete meal.

2. Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans

Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Green Beans are a tasty and easy side dish. You can make them in just a few steps.

Start by washing and trimming your green beans. Mix them with olive oil, lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Put the coated beans in your air fryer basket. Cook them at 370°F for about 10 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking.

Your green beans will come out crispy and full of flavor. The Parmesan adds a nice cheesy taste, while the garlic gives them a savory kick.

This recipe is quick and lets you enjoy veggies without much fuss. It’s a great way to add more greens to your meals.

3. Air Fryer Salmon with Dill

Air fryer salmon with dill is a quick and tasty dinner option. Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F.

Brush olive oil and lemon juice on your salmon fillets. Mix dill and lemon pepper, then coat the fish evenly.

Place the salmon in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Cook for 6-7 minutes until it flakes easily.

The internal temperature should reach 145°F. For extra flavor, add lemon slices on top before cooking.

This method creates a moist, flavorful salmon with a crispy exterior. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a healthy meal fast.

4. Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Air fryer buffalo cauliflower bites are a tasty, plant-based appetizer or snack. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

To make them, coat cauliflower florets in a mixture of flour, cornstarch, and spices. Air fry until crispy, then toss in buffalo sauce.

You’ll need hot sauce, olive oil, flour, cornstarch, and garlic powder. Some recipes also use melted butter in the sauce.

Serve these spicy bites with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. They’re perfect for game day snacks or as a vegetarian side dish.

The air fryer gives the cauliflower a crispy texture without deep frying. It’s a healthier take on traditional buffalo wings.

5. Air Fryer BBQ Ribs

Air fryer BBQ ribs are a quick and tasty dinner option. You can make tender, flavorful ribs in about 30 minutes.

Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs and cutting them to fit your air fryer basket.

Mix up a spice rub with ingredients like brown sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Coat the ribs thoroughly with the rub.

Place the ribs in the air fryer basket meaty side down. Cook at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra flavor, brush on some BBQ sauce and cook for 5 more minutes.

Use a meat thermometer to check that the ribs are fully cooked. Serve your juicy air fryer ribs right away for a satisfying meal.

6. Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce

Air fryer coconut shrimp is a tasty dinner option that’s quick and easy to make. You’ll need shrimp, eggs, flour, panko breadcrumbs, and shredded coconut.

Start by coating the shrimp in flour, then dip in beaten egg. Roll the shrimp in a mixture of panko and coconut. Place them in a single layer in your air fryer basket.

Cook the shrimp at 375°F for about 6-10 minutes. They’ll turn golden brown and crispy. Serve with sweet chili sauce for dipping.

This dish gives you the perfect mix of crunchy coating and juicy shrimp. The coconut adds a hint of sweetness that pairs well with the spicy sauce.

7. Air Fryer Tilapia with Lemon Pepper

Air fryer tilapia with lemon pepper is a quick and tasty dinner option. You can have this dish ready in about 15 minutes.

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels.

Mix lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Rub this mixture over the fish. You can also add a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.

Place the seasoned fillets in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fish.

The result is a flaky, flavorful tilapia with a zesty lemon pepper kick. Serve with a side of vegetables or rice for a complete meal.

8. Stuffed Peppers with Quinoa

Stuffed peppers with quinoa make a delicious and healthy air fryer dinner. Start by cooking quinoa and mixing it with black beans, salsa, and spices.

Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove the seeds. Fill each pepper with the quinoa mixture.

Place the stuffed peppers in your air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until the peppers are tender.

This meal is packed with protein and fiber. You can customize the filling by adding your favorite vegetables or cheese. The air fryer gives the peppers a nice texture while keeping the filling moist.

9. Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Air fryer Brussels sprouts are quick and easy to make. Cut the sprouts in half and toss them with oil and seasonings.

Place them in the air fryer basket at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking.

For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder or balsamic vinegar before cooking. You can also drizzle maple syrup over the cooked sprouts for a sweet twist.

The result is crispy, golden-brown Brussels sprouts with tender centers. They make a tasty side dish or healthy snack.

10. Air Fryer Chicken Teriyaki Bowl

Air fryer chicken teriyaki bowls are a tasty and quick dinner option. Start by marinating chicken pieces in teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes to 24 hours.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken in the basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

While the chicken cooks, prepare your favorite veggies like bell peppers and broccoli. Slice them into even pieces.

When the chicken is done, combine it with the veggies and toss with more teriyaki sauce. Cook everything together in the air fryer at 360°F for about 20 minutes.

Serve your teriyaki chicken and veggies over rice for a complete meal.

11. Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Air fryer buffalo chicken tenders are a tasty and easy dinner option. You can make them with or without breading, depending on your preference.

To start, season your chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and spices like garlic powder and paprika. For a crispy version, coat them in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs.

Cook the tenders in your air fryer at 375-400°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Once cooked, toss them in buffalo sauce for that classic spicy flavor.

Serve your buffalo chicken tenders with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. This meal is perfect for game nights or quick weeknight dinners.

12. Cajun Air Fryer Catfish

Cajun air fryer catfish offers a tasty and lighter alternative to traditional fried fish. Start by patting dry your catfish fillets with paper towels.

Mix Cajun seasoning with cornmeal for a flavorful coating. Brush the fillets with yellow mustard before dredging them in the seasoned cornmeal mixture.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the coated fillets in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

The result is crispy, zesty catfish without excess oil. Serve with a spicy tartar sauce for an extra kick. This quick and easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights.

13. Ranch Seasoned Potatoes

Ranch seasoned potatoes are a tasty side dish you can make in your air fryer. Cut potatoes into 1-inch chunks and rinse them under cold water. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels.

Toss the potato chunks with olive oil and ranch seasoning mix. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F for 5 minutes.

Add the seasoned potatoes to the air fryer basket. Cook at 380°F for about 16 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Your ranch potatoes will come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They’re perfect alongside grilled meats or as a snack on their own.

14. Air Fryer Falafel with Tzatziki

Air fryer falafel is a tasty and healthier take on the classic Middle Eastern dish. You can make crispy falafel in just 20 minutes using your air fryer.

To prepare, blend chickpeas, herbs, onions, garlic, and spices in a food processor. Shape the mixture into small balls or patties.

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Lightly spray the falafel with cooking oil and air fry for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Serve your crispy falafel hot with homemade tzatziki sauce. This cool and tangy yogurt-based sauce pairs perfectly with the warm, savory falafel.

15. Lemon Herb Marinated Pork Chops

Lemon herb marinated pork chops are a tasty and easy air fryer dinner. Mix lemon juice, zest, garlic, olive oil, and herbs in a bag. Add the pork chops and let them marinate for 1-2 hours in the fridge.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chops in the basket, leaving space between each one. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Let the pork chops rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them more tender and flavorful.

Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

16. Sweet and Spicy Air Fryer Meatballs

These meatballs pack a flavorful punch with their sweet and spicy taste. You’ll combine ground beef or pork with breadcrumbs, spices, and a touch of honey for sweetness.

Form the mixture into small balls and place them in your air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

While the meatballs cook, whip up a quick sauce using sriracha, honey, and soy sauce. Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the sauce for a sticky, delicious coating.

Serve these meatballs as an appetizer or pair them with rice for a satisfying dinner. They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family meal.

17. Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Breast

Air fryer mozzarella stuffed chicken breast is a tasty and quick dinner option. To make it, you’ll need chicken breasts, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite seasonings.

Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and stuff it with mozzarella. Some recipes add pesto or cream cheese for extra flavor. Season the outside of the chicken with spices like garlic powder and Italian herbs.

Cook the stuffed chicken in your air fryer at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes. The result is juicy chicken with melted cheese inside. Serve with a side salad or veggies for a complete meal.

This dish is great for those following low-carb or keto diets. You can store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze them for later.

18. Air Fryer Ratatouille

Air fryer ratatouille is a quick and easy way to enjoy this classic French dish. You’ll love how the vegetables turn out crispy and flavorful.

Start by cutting eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes into small, even pieces. Toss them with olive oil, garlic, and herbs like basil and oregano.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned vegetables in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd it.

Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The vegetables should be tender and lightly browned when done.

Serve your air fryer ratatouille as a side dish or over rice for a light meal. It’s a tasty way to get more veggies in your diet.

19. Zucchini Fries with Parmesan

Zucchini fries are a tasty, healthier alternative to potato fries. You can easily make them in your air fryer for a crispy snack or side dish.

Start by cutting zucchini into sticks. Dip them in flour, then egg, and finally a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

Place the coated zucchini sticks in your air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F for 5-8 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Serve your zucchini fries hot with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re great with ranch dressing or marinara sauce.

20. Air Fryer Beef Tacos

Air fryer beef tacos are a quick and tasty dinner option. Start by cooking ground beef with taco seasoning in a pan.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.

Place corn tortillas in the basket and top with the seasoned beef and cheese.

Fold the tortillas in half and brush the outside with a little oil.

Cook for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

The result is crispy tacos with melted cheese and flavorful beef. Serve with your favorite toppings like salsa, lettuce, and sour cream.

This easy meal comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

21. Honey Garlic Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

This tasty dish combines sweet honey with savory garlic for a flavorful pork tenderloin. Start by mixing honey, minced garlic, olive oil, and your favorite seasonings in a bowl.

Coat the pork tenderloin with this mixture and let it marinate for 15-30 minutes.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Place the marinated pork in the air fryer basket.

Cook for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Let the pork rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.

22. Eggplant Parmesan Bites

Eggplant Parmesan Bites are a tasty twist on the classic Italian dish. You can make them quickly in your air fryer for a crispy appetizer or light dinner.

Cut eggplant into small rounds and coat them in seasoned breadcrumbs.

Air fry at 350°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Top the crispy eggplant with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.

Air fry for a few more minutes until the cheese melts.

These bites are healthier than traditional fried versions. They’re crispy on the outside and tender inside. Serve them with extra marinara sauce for dipping.

23. Mushroom and Swiss Stuffed Burgers

Air fryer mushroom and Swiss stuffed burgers are a tasty twist on classic cheeseburgers. Mix ground beef with steak seasoning to form patties. Make a dent in the center of each patty with your thumb.

Fill the dents with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese. Fold the edges to seal the fillings inside.

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for 5 minutes.

Place the stuffed patties in the air fryer basket.

Cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until the burgers reach your desired doneness. Let them rest for 3 minutes before serving.

These juicy burgers pair well with crispy air-fried fries or a fresh side salad. Serve on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.

24. Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms

Air fryer stuffed mushrooms are a tasty appetizer or side dish you can make in about 30 minutes. Start by cleaning large mushroom caps and removing the stems.

Mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, and seasonings like garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. You can add crispy bacon bits or minced scallions for extra flavor.

Stuff the mixture into the mushroom caps.

Place them in your air fryer basket and cook at 350-375°F for 7-9 minutes.

The air fryer gives these stuffed mushrooms a crispy top while keeping the filling warm and gooey. Sprinkle extra cheese on top in the last minute of cooking for an even more decadent treat.

25. Air Fryer General Tso’s Tofu

Air Fryer General Tso’s Tofu is a tasty and healthier twist on the classic Chinese dish. Start by pressing your tofu to remove excess moisture.

Cut the tofu into bite-sized cubes and marinate it in soy sauce for 15-30 minutes.

Next, coat the cubes evenly with cornstarch.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Place the tofu in a single layer and spray with cooking oil.

Air fry for about 20 minutes, shaking halfway through.

While the tofu cooks, prepare the General Tso’s sauce. Once the tofu is crispy, toss it in the sauce and serve. You can add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.

26. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Taquitos

Air fryer sweet potato and black bean taquitos are a tasty, healthy dinner option. You can make these in just a few simple steps.

Start by cooking diced sweet potato in the air fryer for about 10 minutes at 400°F.

While it cooks, mix black beans, corn, and spices in a bowl.

Once the sweet potato is done, add it to the bean mixture.

Warm your tortillas, then fill each one with the mixture and roll tightly.

Place the rolled taquitos in the air fryer seam-side down.

Cook for a few minutes until crispy. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

27. Air Fryer Fried Pickles

Air fryer fried pickles are a tasty snack you can make quickly at home. Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F.

Dry pickle slices with paper towels. Mix flour and seasonings in one bowl. Beat eggs in another. Put breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

Dip each pickle slice in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Make sure they’re fully coated.

Place pickles in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Cook for 8-10 minutes until crispy and golden brown.

Serve your crispy air fryer pickles hot with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re perfect for snacking or as a side dish.

28. Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks

Air fryer cauliflower steaks are a tasty vegetarian main dish. To make them, cut a cauliflower head into 1-inch thick slices. You’ll get about two intact steaks from the center.

Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with your favorite spices.

Place the steaks in the air fryer basket.

Cook at 375°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

The result is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. These steaks are quick to make and full of flavor. They’re perfect for a light dinner or as a side dish.

You can customize the seasoning to your taste. Try garlic powder, paprika, or Italian herbs for extra flavor. Serve with a lemon wedge for a bright, fresh finish.

29. BBQ Chicken Pizza

You can make tasty BBQ chicken pizza in your air fryer. Start by greasing a pie pan with butter. Press pizza dough into the pan and cook it at 380°F for 4 minutes.

Next, add toppings. Spread BBQ sauce on the crust. Sprinkle cheese, cooked chicken, and sliced onions on top. Some recipes suggest mixing the chicken with extra BBQ sauce first.

Cook the pizza in the air fryer at 390°F for 4-5 minutes. The cheese should melt and bubble. For added flavor, sprinkle cilantro on top after cooking.

This quick method gives you crispy crust and gooey cheese. It’s an easy way to enjoy homemade pizza with less mess than traditional baking.

30. Air Fryer Steak Bites with Garlic Butter

Air fryer steak bites are a quick and tasty dinner option. Cut steak into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.

Place the steak bites in the basket and cook for 4-6 minutes, shaking halfway through.

While the steak cooks, melt butter and add minced garlic in a skillet. When the steak is done, toss it in the garlic butter mixture.

For extra flavor, try adding your favorite steak sauce to the garlic butter. Serve these juicy, flavorful bites immediately for a satisfying meal.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer

Air fryers offer healthier cooking and save time in the kitchen. They make meals easier and quicker to prepare.

Health Advantages

Air fryers use less oil than deep frying. This cuts down on calories and fat in your food. You can make crispy favorites like fries with up to 75% less fat.

Air fryers also keep more nutrients in food. The quick cooking time helps veggies stay crisp and colorful. This means you get more vitamins and minerals from your meals.

Some air fryers have features to drain excess fat from foods. This is great for cooking meats like chicken or bacon. You end up with leaner, healthier proteins.

Efficiency and Convenience

Air fryers cook food fast. Most meals are ready in 10-20 minutes. This saves you time on busy weeknights.

You can cook many foods at once in an air fryer. Put chicken and veggies together for a full meal. Some models have multiple trays to cook even more at a time.

Cleanup is easy with an air fryer. Many parts are dishwasher safe. There’s no messy oil to deal with like with deep frying.

Air fryers don’t heat up your kitchen. This is nice in summer when you don’t want to use the oven. You save energy too, since air fryers use less power than a full-size oven.

Tips for Cooking Dinner with an Air Fryer

Air fryers can help you make tasty, quick dinners. These tips will help you get the best results when cooking meals in your air fryer.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Pick foods that work well in an air fryer. Meats like chicken, fish, and pork chops are great choices. Cut them into even pieces so they cook the same. Vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and potatoes also turn out crispy and tasty.

Avoid very wet foods or loose batters. They can make a mess in the basket. Opt for dry seasonings or light coatings instead.

Use just a little oil to help food crisp up. A spray bottle works well for even coating. Too much oil can make food greasy.

Maximizing Flavor and Texture

Don’t overcrowd the basket. Leave space between food items so hot air can flow.

This helps everything cook evenly and get crispy. You may need to cook in batches for larger meals.

Shake the basket or flip food halfway through cooking. This ensures all sides get crispy.

Use tongs to turn bigger items like chicken breasts.

Try different spices and herbs to add flavor. Garlic powder, paprika, and Italian herbs work well on many foods.

Marinate meats before cooking for extra taste.

Preheat your air fryer for the best results. This helps food start cooking right away.

Check food often near the end of cooking time to avoid burning.