Home | Food and Recipes | 10 Quick and Easy Recipes to Cook in Your Air Fryer
The air fryer has become one of the most popular kitchen appliances, and for good reason. It cooks food quickly, uses less oil than traditional frying methods, and produces crispy, delicious results. Whether you're a seasoned air fryer pro or just getting started, there’s a world of possibilities when it comes to easy, weeknight-friendly recipes that make the most of this handy gadget.
Here are 10 quick and easy air fryer recipes that will have you cooking up mouthwatering meals in no time. From savory snacks to sweet treats, these recipes are perfect for busy days or when you want something fast without compromising on flavor.
1. Air Fryer French Fries
Let’s start with a classic: crispy, golden French fries. The air fryer is the perfect tool for making fries that are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and much healthier than deep-fried versions.
Ingredients:
- 2 large potatoes
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Wash and peel (optional) the potatoes, then cut them into thin fries.
- Toss the fries in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Once crispy and golden, serve immediately with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.
2. Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Air fryer chicken wings are crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. You can make them as spicy or mild as you like by adjusting the seasoning or sauce.
Ingredients:
- 10 chicken wings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder (or your favorite seasoning blend)
- Buffalo sauce or BBQ sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up well.
- Toss the wings in olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through.
- If desired, toss the wings in your favorite sauce after cooking for extra flavor.
3. Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, air fryer mozzarella sticks are the ultimate snack or appetizer. They’re quick and easy to make, and so much healthier than deep-fried versions.
Ingredients:
- 8 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions:
- Cut the mozzarella sticks in half if you'd like smaller pieces.
- Set up a breading station: place flour in one dish, beaten egg in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.
- Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, dip it in egg, and coat it in breadcrumbs.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the mozzarella sticks in the basket in a single layer.
- Air fry for 6–8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Serve with marinara sauce.
4. Air Fryer Shrimp
Air fryer shrimp is a quick, easy, and healthy meal that’s perfect for busy nights. You can serve it with a salad, over pasta, or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Toss the shrimp in olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 5–6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the shrimp is pink and cooked through.
- Serve with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.
5. Air Fryer Veggie Chips
If you're craving a crunchy snack but want something healthier than regular chips, air fryer veggie chips are a great option. You can use sweet potatoes, zucchini, or even kale.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes or zucchini
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and optional seasoning (e.g., paprika, garlic powder)
Instructions:
- Slice the vegetables into thin rounds or strips.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings.
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
- Place the veggie slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve immediately for a crispy, guilt-free snack!
6. Air Fryer Breakfast Sandwich
If you love a hearty breakfast sandwich, the air fryer is the perfect tool to make a quick and delicious version with a perfectly cooked egg, cheese, and your choice of protein.
Ingredients:
- 1 English muffin, split
- 1 egg
- 1 slice cheese (cheddar, American, etc.)
- 2 slices cooked bacon or sausage patty
Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the English muffin halves in the air fryer basket and cook for 2–3 minutes, just to toast them.
- Crack the egg into a small oven-safe dish that fits inside the air fryer basket.
- Cook the egg in the air fryer for 5–6 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Assemble the sandwich with the toasted muffin, egg, cheese, and bacon or sausage. Serve warm.
7. Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Forget greasy, deep-fried chicken tenders—air fryer chicken tenders are perfectly crispy and healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken strip into the egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
8. Air Fryer Falafel
Falafel made in the air fryer is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—perfect for a healthy Mediterranean meal. Serve it with pita bread and tahini sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Blend all the ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
- Form the mixture into small balls or patties.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the falafel with olive oil and place them in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve with pita, veggies, and tahini sauce.
9. Air Fryer Apple Chips
Looking for a sweet, healthy snack? These homemade apple chips are a perfect choice. They’re naturally sweet, crispy, and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 apples, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
- Slice the apples as thin as possible using a mandolin or sharp knife.
- Toss the slices in cinnamon and sugar (if using).
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the apple slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
- Let them cool slightly before serving.
10. Air Fryer Banana Bread
Yes, you can make banana bread in your air fryer! It’s quick, easy, and so comforting. Plus, you don’t need to heat up your oven for this one.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
- Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan that fits in your air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 20–25 minutes