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The best things to cook in an air fryer for beginners are quick, foolproof recipes like crispy chicken tenders, golden french fries, and roasted vegetables that deliver delicious results with minimal effort. These easy air fryer favorites require little prep, use common ingredients, and teach essential techniques like timing and oil use—perfect for building confidence. With no preheating and easy cleanup, beginners can enjoy healthier, flavorful meals in minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Start simple: Begin with frozen foods like fries or nuggets for quick, foolproof results.
- Use minimal oil: Air fryers need little to no oil for crispy, healthy meals.
- Preheat when needed: Preheating ensures even cooking and better texture for certain recipes.
- Try versatile proteins: Chicken, salmon, and shrimp cook perfectly with minimal prep time.
- Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between items for optimal air circulation and crispiness.
- Experiment with veggies: Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and zucchini turn tender-crisp in minutes.
📑 Table of Contents
Why the Air Fryer is a Game-Changer for Beginners
Let me tell you a little secret: I was once a kitchen novice who burned toast and thought scrambled eggs were a culinary challenge. Then I discovered the air fryer. At first, I was skeptical—how could a countertop appliance that looks like a futuristic coffee maker actually make crispy, delicious food without drowning it in oil? But after my first batch of air fryer chicken wings, I was hooked. The skin was golden, the meat juicy, and I didn’t have to deal with a greasy stovetop or a smoke alarm going off. That’s the magic of the air fryer: it simplifies cooking while delivering results that taste like they came from a restaurant.
If you’re new to air frying, you’re in the right place. This guide is packed with the best things to cook in air fryer for beginners—recipes that are foolproof, quick, and delicious. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone just trying to make weeknight dinners less stressful, these ideas will help you unlock the full potential of your air fryer. And don’t worry—I’ll keep things simple, with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor. Let’s dive in!
1. Classic Comfort Foods Made Crispy
When you’re just starting out, stick to foods you already know and love. The air fryer excels at turning comfort classics into healthier, crispy versions without sacrificing taste. Think of it as your shortcut to guilt-free indulgence.
French Fries and Tater Tots
Forget about deep-frying. With the air fryer, you can get golden, crispy fries using just a light spray of oil. Here’s how:
- Cut russet potatoes into 1/4-inch sticks or use frozen fries (no thawing needed).
- Soak fresh fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch (optional but worth it).
- Toss with 1 tsp oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer in the basket.
- Cook at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway. For extra crispiness, flip the fries.
Tip: For tater tots, no prep is needed—just toss them in and cook at 400°F for 12–15 minutes. They come out perfectly crunchy on the outside and fluffy inside.
Chicken Tenders and Nuggets
Kids (and adults) love these. The air fryer makes them crispy without the mess of breading or deep-frying.
- For homemade tenders: Cut chicken breasts into strips, dip in egg, then coat with seasoned breadcrumbs or panko.
- Place in the basket, spray lightly with oil, and cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- For frozen nuggets: Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes. They’re ready when the outside is golden and the inside is hot.
Pro tip: Add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try using crushed cornflakes for a crunchier coating.
Onion Rings
Onion rings are notoriously tricky to make at home—until now. The air fryer gives them that perfect balance of crunch and soft onion.
- Slice onions into 1/2-inch rings. Separate the layers.
- Dip in buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar), then coat in a mix of flour, cornstarch, and spices (salt, pepper, paprika).
- Spray with oil and cook at 390°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Why it works: The air fryer circulates hot air evenly, so the rings cook through without getting soggy. Plus, you use 70% less oil than traditional frying.
2. Easy Protein-Packed Meals
Protein is the backbone of a healthy diet, and the air fryer makes it easy to cook it perfectly—no more dry chicken or rubbery fish. Here are some best things to cook in air fryer for beginners when you need a protein boost.
Chicken Breasts
Chicken breasts often turn out dry in the oven, but the air fryer keeps them juicy. Try this simple method:
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Place in the basket and cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes (flip halfway for even browning).
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F internally.
Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, soy sauce, or your favorite sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. Just pat it dry first to prevent smoking.
Salmon Fillets
Salmon is rich in omega-3s, and the air fryer cooks it in half the time of the oven.
- Season with salt, pepper, lemon slices, and a drizzle of olive oil or honey.
- Cook at 390°F for 8–10 minutes (depending on thickness). The salmon should flake easily with a fork.
Why it’s great: The air fryer sears the outside while keeping the inside moist. No more overcooking!
Hard-Boiled Eggs
Yes, you can make hard-boiled eggs in an air fryer—no boiling water, no peeling struggles.
- Place eggs directly in the basket (no oil needed).
- Cook at 270°F for 15 minutes for hard-boiled, 12 minutes for soft-boiled.
- Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking and make peeling easier.
Bonus: These eggs are perfect for meal prep. Store them in the fridge for up to a week.
3. Vegetarian and Vegan Favorites
You don’t need meat to make delicious air fryer meals. These plant-based dishes are crispy, satisfying, and perfect for beginners.
Roasted Vegetables
The air fryer turns veggies into crispy, caramelized bites in minutes.
- Toss broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini with 1 tsp oil, salt, and pepper.
- Cook at 390°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
Pro tip: For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (vegan if needed) or a dash of balsamic glaze after cooking.
Falafel
Store-bought or homemade falafel turns out crispy and golden in the air fryer.
- For store-bought: Cook at 360°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- For homemade: Shape chickpea mixture into balls, lightly oil, and cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.
Why it’s better: No oil splatters, and the outside gets perfectly crispy while the inside stays tender.
Sweet Potato Fries
A healthier twist on classic fries, sweet potato fries are naturally sweet and crispy when air-fried.
- Cut sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch sticks.
- Toss with 1 tsp oil, salt, and a pinch of cinnamon or paprika.
- Cook at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway.
Tip: For extra crispiness, soak the fries in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking to remove starch.
4. Sweet Treats and Snacks
The air fryer isn’t just for savory dishes—it’s also a great tool for making desserts and snacks. These recipes are simple, quick, and perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.
Churros
Churros are traditionally deep-fried, but the air fryer gives them a crispy exterior with less oil.
- Make a dough with flour, water, butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Pipe into strips (use a ziplock bag with a star tip if you don’t have a piping bag).
- Spray with oil, cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, then roll in cinnamon sugar.
Pro tip: Serve with chocolate sauce or caramel for dipping. Kids will love these!
Apple Chips
These are a healthy, crunchy snack that’s easy to make.
- Thinly slice apples (use a mandoline for even slices).
- Toss with cinnamon and a light spray of oil (optional).
- Cook at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Why it works: The air fryer dehydrates the apples slightly, giving them a crisp texture without frying.
Mini Pies
Use store-bought pie crusts to make individual-sized pies in minutes.
- Cut circles of pie crust, fill with fruit preserves or canned pie filling.
- Top with another crust circle, crimp the edges, and brush with egg wash.
- Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden.
Bonus: These are perfect for portion control and make great party snacks.
5. Leftovers and Quick Reheats
One of the best things about the air fryer is how well it reheats leftovers. Unlike the microwave, which makes food soggy, the air fryer restores crispiness and flavor.
Reheating Pizza
Microwaving pizza turns the crust into rubber. The air fryer brings it back to life.
- Place a slice in the basket and cook at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
- The crust gets crispy again, and the cheese melts perfectly.
Tip: Add a sprinkle of water to the basket to prevent the top from drying out.
Fried Rice
Reheated fried rice in the microwave is often mushy. The air fryer fixes that.
- Spread rice in a single layer in the basket.
- Cook at 375°F for 5–6 minutes, stirring halfway.
Pro tip: Add a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil after reheating for extra flavor.
Chicken Wings (Leftover)
Reheat leftover wings at 375°F for 5–6 minutes to restore their crispiness.
- No need to add oil—the wings will re-crisp on their own.
Why it’s better: The air fryer circulates hot air, so the wings heat evenly without drying out.
6. Tips and Tricks for Air Fryer Success
Now that you’ve got some recipes to try, here are a few tips to make your air frying experience even better.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Air fryers work by circulating hot air, so if you pile food too high, it won’t cook evenly. Always leave space between items for air to flow.
Shake or Flip Halfway
For even cooking, shake the basket (for small items like fries) or flip larger items (like chicken breasts) halfway through.
Use Oil Spray (Not Pouring)
A light spray of oil gives food a crispy texture without adding too much fat. Avoid pouring oil directly into the basket.
Clean the Basket After Each Use
Grease and food particles can build up, affecting performance. Most baskets are dishwasher-safe, but check your manual.
Preheat for Crispier Results
Some air fryers have a preheat function, but if yours doesn’t, run it empty for 3–5 minutes at your cooking temperature before adding food.
| Food | Temperature (°F) | Cooking Time (Minutes) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Fries | 400 | 15–20 | Shake halfway |
| Chicken Breasts | 375 | 12–15 | Flip halfway |
| Salmon | 390 | 8–10 | Flake with a fork |
| Roasted Veggies | 390 | 10–12 | Toss with oil |
| Churros | 375 | 8–10 | Roll in cinnamon sugar |
Final Thoughts: Your Air Fryer Journey Starts Here
When I first got my air fryer, I thought it was just a trendy gadget. But after trying these best things to cook in air fryer for beginners, I realized it’s a kitchen essential. From crispy fries to juicy chicken and even desserts, the air fryer delivers consistent, delicious results with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or just treating yourself to a healthier version of your favorite comfort foods.
The key to success is starting simple. Pick one recipe from this list—maybe air fryer chicken tenders or roasted veggies—and give it a try. Once you see how easy and tasty it is, you’ll be hooked. And remember, the air fryer is forgiving. If something doesn’t turn out perfect the first time, adjust the time or temperature and try again. Cooking is a journey, and your air fryer is the perfect companion to get you started.
So go ahead—fire up that air fryer and discover the joy of quick, crispy, delicious meals. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to cook in an air fryer for beginners?
For beginners, the best things to cook in an air fryer include frozen foods like French fries, chicken tenders, and mozzarella sticks—they require no prep and turn out crispy every time. Simple recipes like roasted vegetables, salmon, or hard-boiled eggs are also foolproof and delicious.
Can I cook frozen food in an air fryer as a beginner?
Yes! Frozen foods like fries, nuggets, and fish sticks are some of the easiest and best things to cook in an air fryer for beginners. Just place them in the basket and follow the package instructions, adjusting time slightly for crispier results.
Do I need to use oil when cooking in an air fryer?
Most recipes don’t require oil, as the air fryer circulates hot air to create crispiness. However, a light spray of oil on foods like vegetables or chicken wings can enhance browning and flavor.
What are quick and easy air fryer recipes for weeknight dinners?
Try air fryer chicken breasts, salmon fillets, or stuffed bell peppers—they cook in under 20 minutes. These are among the best things to cook in an air fryer for beginners who want fast, healthy meals.
Can I bake or reheat leftovers in an air fryer?
Absolutely! The air fryer is perfect for reheating pizza, fries, or even baked goods like muffins. It restores crispiness better than a microwave, making it ideal for leftovers.
Are air fryers safe for beginners with no cooking experience?
Yes, air fryers are very beginner-friendly—just preheat, set the timer, and avoid overcrowding the basket. Stick to simple recipes like the best things to cook in an air fryer for beginners, and you’ll get great results every time.