10 Easy Things to Cook in Air Fryer for Beginners to Try Today

Discover the easiest and most satisfying foods to cook in an air fryer—perfect for beginners ready to enjoy crispy, delicious results in minutes. From golden fries and juicy chicken tenders to roasted veggies and even desserts, these 10 beginner-friendly recipes require minimal prep and deliver maximum flavor. Start with foolproof favorites like mozzarella sticks or salmon bites, and unlock your air fryer’s full potential today.

Key Takeaways

• Start simple: Begin with frozen foods like fries or nuggets for foolproof results.
• Prep matters: Lightly oil foods to enhance crispiness and prevent sticking.
• Timing is key: Adjust cook times by 20% less than oven recipes.
• Batch cooking: Cook proteins and veggies together for quick, balanced meals.
• Clean easily: Use liners or foil to minimize mess and cleanup time.
• Experiment safely: Test small portions first to master temperature control.

Why Air Frying Is the Perfect Starting Point for Kitchen Newbies

Let’s be honest: cooking can feel overwhelming when you’re just starting out. Between mastering knife skills, learning heat control, and figuring out how to avoid burning everything, it’s no wonder so many beginners feel defeated before they even begin. But here’s a secret I wish someone told me years ago: your air fryer is the ultimate beginner’s kitchen sidekick. It’s forgiving, fast, and surprisingly versatile—perfect for turning simple ingredients into crispy, delicious meals with minimal effort.

When I first got my air fryer, I was skeptical. I thought it was just a glorified toaster oven. But after a few tries—starting with frozen fries and working my way up to salmon and veggies—I realized how much easier it made cooking. No preheating. No messy oil. No constant flipping. Just toss, set, and walk away. That’s why I’m excited to share 10 easy things to cook in air fryer for beginners. These recipes are simple, delicious, and designed to build your confidence one crispy bite at a time.

1. Frozen Foods: The Ultimate Beginner-Friendly Starting Point

One of the best things about air fryers is how well they handle frozen foods. You don’t need to thaw, prep, or even think too hard—just grab what’s in your freezer and let the machine do the work. This makes it ideal for beginners who want quick, reliable results without the stress of cooking from scratch.

Why Frozen Works So Well in the Air Fryer

Frozen foods are pre-cooked and designed to crisp up quickly. The air fryer’s rapid air circulation mimics deep frying but with little to no oil. The result? Crispy outsides, tender insides, and way less mess. Plus, you avoid the soggy texture that often happens in microwaves.

• No oil needed for most frozen items—just a light spray if you want extra crispiness.
• Even cooking thanks to hot air circulating around all sides.
• Less cleanup than stovetop frying or baking.

Top 3 Frozen Foods to Try First

Start with these foolproof picks:

• Frozen french fries: 12–15 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Shake the basket halfway. Result: golden, crispy, and restaurant-worthy.
• Frozen mozzarella sticks: 8–10 minutes at 390°F (199°C). No oil needed. Tip: don’t overcrowd, or they’ll stick together.
• Frozen chicken tenders: 10–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Flip halfway for even browning.

Pro tip: Always check the package instructions, but reduce cooking time by 2–3 minutes since air fryers cook faster than conventional ovens.

Bonus: Frozen Veggie Nuggets and Spring Rolls

These are great for quick snacks or sides. Veggie nuggets (like cauliflower or broccoli) take about 10 minutes at 400°F. Spring rolls? 8 minutes at 380°F, and they come out perfectly crispy without greasiness. Just make sure to leave space between items so the air can circulate.

2. Simple Proteins: Chicken, Fish, and Beyond

Once you’re comfortable with frozen foods, it’s time to try fresh proteins. The air fryer excels at cooking chicken, fish, and even tofu with minimal effort. The key? Don’t overcomplicate it. A little seasoning goes a long way, and you’ll get juicy, flavorful results every time.

Chicken Breasts: Juicy Every Time

One of the most common beginner mistakes? Overcooking chicken breasts. They dry out fast. But in the air fryer, they stay moist and tender. Here’s how:

• Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
• Spray lightly with oil (optional).
• Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Note: Thicker breasts may need an extra 2–3 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) internal temp.

For extra flavor, marinate for 15–30 minutes in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking.

Salmon: Crispy Skin, Flaky Inside

Salmon is a great high-protein, heart-healthy option. The air fryer gives it a beautiful sear without drying it out.

• Place skin-side down (if skin-on).
• Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon.
• Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes.

Tip: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before cooking for a sweet-savory glaze. Pair with roasted veggies or a simple salad.

Shrimp: Fast, Flavorful, and Foolproof

Shrimp cooks in under 10 minutes and is perfect for tacos, pasta, or salads.

• Pat dry with paper towels (this helps them crisp up).
• Toss with olive oil, garlic, and Old Bay seasoning.
• Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes, shaking halfway.

For a fun twist, try breaded shrimp: coat in panko or breadcrumbs and spray with oil. Cook 6–7 minutes at 380°F.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Crispy, Caramelized, and Hands-Off

Roasting vegetables in the air fryer is a game-changer. You get that oven-roasted sweetness and crisp edges, but in half the time. And cleanup is a breeze—no sticky baking sheets or splattered oil.

Best Veggies for Air Frying

Some vegetables work better than others. Here are the top picks:

• Broccoli: 8–10 minutes at 390°F. Toss with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Brussels sprouts: 12–15 minutes at 375°F. Halve them for faster cooking. Finish with balsamic glaze.
• Carrots: 10–12 minutes at 380°F. Cut into sticks or rounds. Season with honey and thyme.
• Zucchini: 8–10 minutes at 390°F. Slice into half-moons. Toss with Italian seasoning.

How to Avoid Soggy or Burnt Veggies

Two common issues—and how to fix them:

• Soggy veggies? Don’t overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if needed. Also, pat them dry before cooking.
• Burnt edges? Reduce temperature by 10–20°F and shake the basket more often. Leafy greens (like kale) cook fast—check after 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Add a splash of lemon juice or soy sauce after cooking for a bright, savory finish.

One-Pan Meals with Veggies

Try cooking veggies with your protein. Example: add halved Brussels sprouts to the basket with chicken breasts. Just adjust timing—cook the chicken first, then add veggies for the last 5–7 minutes.

4. Breakfast Foods: Start Your Day the Air Fryer Way

Who said air fryers are only for dinner? They’re fantastic for quick, healthy breakfasts—no stovetop mess, no burnt pancakes. Whether you’re in a rush or just want a lazy morning, these ideas will make your day brighter.

Toasted Bagels and English Muffins

Forget the toaster. The air fryer gives you a perfectly crisp exterior and soft interior.

• Slice bagels or muffins in half.
• Spray lightly with oil (optional).
• Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes.

Top with cream cheese, avocado, or your favorite jam. For a fun twist, try cinnamon sugar on the cut side.

Scrambled Eggs and Breakfast Burritos

Yes, you can cook eggs in the air fryer—just use a heat-safe dish or silicone mold.

• Whisk 2–3 eggs with salt, pepper, and a splash of milk.
• Pour into a greased ramekin.
• Cook at 320°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway.

For burritos: wrap scrambled eggs, cheese, and sausage in a tortilla. Spray with oil. Cook 5–6 minutes at 360°F. Crispy outside, hot inside.

Hash Browns and Breakfast Potatoes

Frozen hash browns take 10–12 minutes at 400°F. For homemade, shred potatoes, squeeze out water, season, and form into patties. Cook 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Tip: Add diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.

5. Snacks and Sides: Crispy, Crunchy, and Addictive

Snacks are where the air fryer truly shines. You get deep-fried crunch with a fraction of the oil—and none of the guilt. These are perfect for movie nights, after-school munching, or just satisfying a craving.

Homemade French Fries

Skip the frozen bag. Make your own with just a few ingredients:

• Cut russet potatoes into ¼-inch sticks.
• Soak in water for 10 minutes to remove starch.
• Dry thoroughly, then toss with 1 tbsp oil, salt, and pepper.
• Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 15–18 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes.

For extra crispiness, spray with oil halfway through. Serve with ketchup or aioli.

Onion Rings and Zucchini Chips

Onion rings: slice onions, dip in flour, egg, and panko. Spray with oil. Cook 10–12 minutes at 375°F. Flip halfway.

Zucchini chips: slice zucchini thin, toss with oil and seasoning. Cook 8–10 minutes at 390°F. Watch closely—they burn fast.

Garlic Bread and Stuffed Mushrooms

Garlic bread: slice baguette, spread with garlic butter, sprinkle with Parmesan. Cook 5–6 minutes at 350°F.

Stuffed mushrooms: mix cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Fill mushroom caps. Cook 10–12 minutes at 375°F.

6. Desserts: Yes, You Can Bake in an Air Fryer!

Most people don’t think of the air fryer as a dessert machine—but it absolutely can be. From brownies to fruit crisps, it’s perfect for small-batch treats that don’t require a full oven.

Single-Serve Brownies and Cookies

Use a small ramekin or silicone mold. Pour brownie batter (boxed or homemade) into the dish. Cook at 320°F (160°C) for 12–15 minutes. The edges will be crispy, the center fudgy.

For cookies: place spoonfuls of dough on parchment. Cook 8–10 minutes at 325°F. They’ll spread less than in an oven, so space them out.

Apple Chips and Banana Slices

Apple chips: slice apples thin, toss with cinnamon. Cook 15–20 minutes at 360°F, flipping halfway. They crisp up as they cool.

Banana slices: toss with honey and cinnamon. Cook 10–12 minutes at 350°F. Serve with yogurt or ice cream.

Mini Fruit Crisps

Mix sliced peaches or berries with a little sugar and cornstarch. Top with oats, brown sugar, and butter. Cook in a small dish for 12–15 minutes at 350°F. Warm, gooey, and delicious.

Air Fryer Cooking Time & Temperature Guide (Beginner-Friendly)

Below is a quick-reference table to help you get started. These are general guidelines—always check your food and adjust as needed.

Food	Temperature (°F)	Time (Minutes)	Notes
Frozen Fries	400	12–15	Shake halfway
Chicken Breast	375	12–15	Flip halfway; check temp
Salmon	375	8–10	Skin-side down
Broccoli	390	8–10	Toss with oil & seasoning
Hash Browns	400	10–12	Shake occasionally
Brownies (single)	320	12–15	Use ramekin
Apple Chips	360	15–20	Flip halfway

Final Thoughts: Your Air Fryer Is a Beginner’s Best Friend

When I first started using my air fryer, I made mistakes—overcrowding the basket, undercooking chicken, even burning a batch of sweet potato fries. But each mishap taught me something new. And now? It’s one of my most-used kitchen tools. The 10 easy things to cook in air fryer for beginners I’ve shared here are designed to help you skip the frustration and jump straight to the fun part: eating delicious, crispy, home-cooked food.

Remember, the air fryer isn’t perfect. Some foods won’t be *exactly* like deep-fried versions (though they’re close). But it’s fast, healthy, and forgiving—perfect for building confidence. Start with frozen foods, then move to proteins, veggies, and even desserts. Before you know it, you’ll be experimenting with your own recipes.

So grab your air fryer, pick one of these ideas, and give it a try today. You might just discover your new favorite way to cook. And who knows? That first batch of crispy fries might be the start of a lifelong kitchen adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the easiest things to cook in an air fryer for beginners?

Frozen foods like french fries, mozzarella sticks, and chicken nuggets are perfect for beginners—just pop them in and set the timer. These require no prep and teach you how to adjust cooking times for crispiness.

Can I cook raw meat in an air fryer as a beginner?

Absolutely! Start with boneless chicken breasts or salmon fillets—season simply and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes. The air fryer locks in moisture while giving you a golden, crispy exterior.

What snacks can I make with an air fryer for beginners?

Try roasted chickpeas, kale chips, or even reheating leftover pizza for a quick crunch. These healthy snacks require minimal oil and are great for mastering temperature control in your air fryer.

Are there any quick breakfast ideas for the air fryer?

Yes! Air fryer hard-boiled eggs, breakfast sausages, or even reheated pastries take minutes and free up stovetop space. It’s a game-changer for busy mornings.

What frozen foods work best in an air fryer?

Frozen tater tots, fish sticks, and veggie spring rolls are foolproof and ready in 10-15 minutes. They’re ideal for learning how to avoid overcrowding the basket for even cooking.

Can I bake desserts in an air fryer as a beginner?

Start with simple treats like banana bread, churros, or even chocolate chip cookies in ramekins. The air fryer bakes evenly and cuts down on oven preheating time.