Seems like I’ve developed a little trick. My trick is when I don’t know what to make for dinner and have zero energy, I just turn to my air fryer. It takes all the work out of making a delicious meal!
Whether it’s perfectly cooked salmon or crispy chicken fajitas, the air fryer makes weeknight dinners a breeze. And these recipes? They are good, too! And wayyy healthy.
1. Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Let me just lay it all out there: this air fryer fried chicken is my new obsession. It is seriously next level. This is a spin on that classic Southern fried chicken that’ll have you licking every last crumb from your fingers.
The air fryer takes this dish to a whole new world of crispiness. A little tip: if you marinate the chicken first, you will get the most amazing flavor.
2. Air Fryer Arancini (Rice Balls)
These arancini rice balls are just so delightful and always satisfying. You’ll be making the classic Italian dish using leftover risotto or rice along with a few other things.
You can absolutely get creative with this one and throw in any veggies you have that are about to be tossed. Don’t be afraid to make this one completely yours!
3. Air Fryer Pork Roast
While your other dishes are cooking away in the oven, it’s the perfect time to let the air fryer work its magic on this delicious pork roast. Oil it up, season it like you mean it, and pop it right in.
Could a recipe be any more straightforward? I seriously don’t think so. Just a heads up, it could take as long as an hour to roast, depending on the pork’s size.
4. Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
These air fryer chicken tenders are a total hit with everyone. They get marinated in creamy buttermilk and coated with breadcrumbs, so you just know this recipe is going to become a go-to in your home.
The secret here is a spice mix inspired by KFC that makes these chicken tenders absolutely sing. Why get fast food when you can make it ten times better at home?
5. Air Fryer Hamburgers
I know what you might be thinking. Hamburgers in an air fryer? Really? But yes, it’s true! Your air fryer just might be the secret to making the juiciest, most flavorful burgers you’ve ever had.
It’s definitely one of the simplest ways to cook them, that’s for sure! You’ll have to be the judge on whether they’re also the most delicious. (They are!)
6. Air Fryer Grilled Cheese
There aren’t many things more comforting than a perfectly made grilled cheese sandwich. The greatest ones have that crispy outside with ooey-gooey cheese on the inside.
This one, though, has a little something extra. Instead of the usual American or cheddar, you’re using pimento cheese. It adds a whole other layer of flavor to an already amazing dish.
7. Air Fryer Nashville Hot Chicken
Have you ever had Nashville hot chicken? If you haven’t, you are in for a serious treat. (Actually, you’re in for a treat regardless!) This recipe is the perfect copycat version of all the best Nashville hot chicken out there.
It’s juicy and so tender, with unbelievably crisp skin and so much heat and flavor. You even get that little bit of tang from the pickle juice. YUM!
8. Air Fryer Fish Tacos
Pair these super vibrant air fryer fish tacos with some citrus salsa and a spicy chipotle mayo for a dinner that you won’t forget. Don’t skip whipping up some fresh guacamole to spread on these beauties.
While the recipe suggests a white fish fillet, you could totally use salmon or even shrimp instead.
9. Air Fryer Steak
You can never go wrong when you put a thick, juicy steak on the table. Kids love it, adults love it, it’s a meal that’s pretty much universally adored.
And when you cook it in the air fryer, it turns into a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Just make sure to look at the recipe’s notes so you can get that perfect level of doneness.
10. Air Fryer Pork Chops
The greatest thing about air frying is the incredible crispiness you’re guaranteed to get. These air fryer pork chops are no exception. They are so juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside.
You also coat them in breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese for an extra layer of crunch. Don’t be shy about going wild with the seasoning if you want a little more spice.
11. Air Fryer Turkey Croquettes
Trying to figure out what to do with that leftover turkey? How about giving these amazing air fryer turkey croquettes a try?
This dish is basically Thanksgiving rolled into a ball, since it’s made from turkey and stuffing. Dip these little guys into some gravy or cranberry sauce for the ultimate leftover meal.
12. Air Fryer Spanish Spicy Potatoes (Patatas Bravas)
Thanks to the air fryer, potatoes are now even more golden and so delicious. Instead of oven roasting or frying them, using the air fryer takes just a fraction of the time and they are never greasy.
Remember to make an iconic bravas dipping sauce to really complete the whole meal.
13. Air Fryer Chicken Breast
An air fryer is pretty much a rapid cooker since it’s much faster than a standard oven. Just look at this yummy chicken breast recipe, for example. It takes only 20 minutes to make and is perfect for a fast meal.
This one-ingredient recipe is so good and full of spices that I bet you have in your cabinet right now. Just add a few sides to the plate, and you’re all set!
14. Air Fryer Fried Rice
If you’re anything like me and often find yourself with way too much rice, this recipe is for you. Grab that leftover rice and make some restaurant-level fried rice in your air fryer.
This recipe is so convenient because it uses frozen veggies instead of fresh. You can also change the flavors and ingredients to whatever you like. Toss in a protein like shrimp or calamari for some extra goodness!
15. Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
This coconut shrimp recipe is restaurant quality but for way less money. I suggest looking for a good sale on frozen shrimp and keeping a bag in your freezer until you’re ready to make this.
Just defrost, season, and bread the shrimp, then pop them into the air fryer. It really couldn’t be simpler to make! Plus, it’s packed with coconut flavor and has such a satisfying crunchy texture.
16. Air Fryer Pepperoni Cheese Pizza
I was totally shocked when I found out you could make the most delicious pizza ever right in the air fryer! This dish is surprisingly low in calories and is an ideal light dinner.
With just 200 calories in each pizza, you won’t feel bad for enjoying this cheesy meal. I totally recommend customizing your pizza with some extra toppings like olives, bacon, or a handful of fresh herbs.
17. Air Fryer Meatloaf
This keto-friendly meatloaf is just the thing for anyone at your table with carb-related dietary needs. It’s made with a meatloaf mix, parmesan, and bacon, so it’s high in fat, protein, and flavor while being low in carbs and sugar.
And if you have guests who aren’t on a keto diet, don’t worry! This meatloaf is so good, they’ll love it just as much.
18. Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
These chicken taquitos make a perfect dinner for game day or when you’re having people over. It’s really hard to go wrong with a dish that’s filled with creamy and cheesy goodness.
This spicy chicken mixture is just perfection and is so much better than buying the frozen kind. It’s also the best way to use up leftover chicken from the night before!
19. Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
This gorgeous recipe is just oozing with deliciousness! The moment you take this dish out of the air fryer, it’ll be gone in a flash.
These little buffalo cauliflower bites are low-carb, keto-friendly, and surprisingly good for you. It’s pretty much a vegan option for buffalo wings.
You still get all the spice and kick without the extra calories. Feel free to go a little wild with your favorite BBQ or hot sauce.
20. Air Fryer Turkey Tacos
These yummy turkey tacos are one of those air fryer recipes that the whole family will be obsessed with. And they are so customizable!
There’s nothing better than a fun taco night to bring everybody together. After you load up the tacos just how everyone likes them, put them in the air fryer so the cheese can melt.
The crunch is going to be out of this world and will have everyone asking for more. Don’t say I didn’t tell you so!
21. Air Fryer Baked Potato
Air fryer baked potatoes are one of my all-time favorite easy dinners. They work great as a side dish but are also a hearty main course. Especially when you stuff them with some BBQ, cheese, green onions, and all the good things.
Just coat your potatoes in cooking spray, sprinkle with sea salt and garlic powder, and toss them in the fryer. They’ll be all ready in about 40 minutes!
22. Air Fryer Chicken Chimichangas
These chimichangas use whole wheat tortillas and leftover rotisserie chicken for a really satisfying dinner. They are loaded up with fresh pico de gallo, pepper jack cheese, and sour cream, making this dish so filling it might just send you into a happy food coma.
After you’re done putting them together, just place the chimichangas in the air fryer to get that extra crispiness.
23. Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich
This mouthwatering Chick-fil-A copycat is so simple to make. You’ll let the chicken hang out in pickle juice and buttermilk for that juicy tenderness. Then, you’ll pack the breading with paprika, garlic, and cayenne for some extra heat.
But do you want to know what the best part is? This recipe is totally oil-free! Who needs all those calories from deep-fried fast food when you can get that same crispy crunch from an air fryer?
24. Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Thanks to the air fryer, these chicken wings are guaranteed to be some of the most delicious you’ve ever tasted! Who wants wings dripping in extra fat and oil when you can just use the air fryer instead?
Say goodbye to deep-fried food and say hello to an even crispier and crunchier way of life.
25. Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes
I am obsessed with all kinds of air fryer vegetable recipes. But potatoes will always be my number one.
This recipe has the perfect mix of garlic and herbs along with a couple of other spices. If you’re hoping for a super soft and fluffy inside, just boil the potatoes before you put them in the air fryer.