What Can I Do With an Air Fryer 10 Delicious Ideas to Try

An air fryer is a versatile kitchen powerhouse that lets you cook crispy, delicious meals with little to no oil, making it perfect for healthier versions of fried favorites like chicken wings, french fries, and mozzarella sticks. Beyond frying, it excels at roasting vegetables, reheating leftovers, baking small desserts, and even cooking proteins like salmon or tofu to perfection—all in a fraction of the time of conventional ovens.

Key Takeaways

• Cook healthier meals: Use less oil for crispy, guilt-free dishes.
• Reheat leftovers perfectly: Restore crunch without sogginess in minutes.
• Roast vegetables evenly: Achieve caramelized edges with minimal effort.
• Bake small desserts: Make cookies or mug cakes in under 15 mins.
• Dehydrate fruits/veggies: Create healthy snacks using low, slow heat.
• Crisp up proteins fast: Chicken wings or fish fillets cook evenly.

What Can I Do With an Air Fryer? 10 Delicious Ideas to Try

Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. These compact kitchen appliances promise crispy, golden results with little to no oil—making them a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying. But the versatility of an air fryer goes far beyond just replicating fried foods. Whether you’re a busy parent, a health-conscious eater, or someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, an air fryer can revolutionize the way you cook.

From perfectly roasted vegetables to juicy steaks and even baked goods, the possibilities are nearly endless. In this guide, we’ll explore what you can do with an air fryer through 10 delicious and practical ideas that will inspire your next meal. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned air fryer user, you’ll discover new techniques, flavor combinations, and time-saving tricks to make the most of this modern kitchen marvel.

1. Crispy, Oil-Fried-Like Snacks and Appetizers

One of the most popular uses of an air fryer is recreating the crispy texture of deep-fried snacks—without the guilt. Thanks to rapid hot air circulation, air fryers can achieve that satisfying crunch with just a light mist of oil or even none at all. This makes them perfect for guilt-free snacking or preparing crowd-pleasing appetizers.

Classic Fried Favorites Made Healthier

Think French fries, mozzarella sticks, chicken tenders, and onion rings—all staples of the deep fryer that can be easily adapted for the air fryer. The key is preheating the basket, arranging food in a single layer, and flipping halfway through for even browning.

• Homemade French Fries: Cut potatoes into 1/4-inch strips, soak in water for 30 minutes to remove starch, pat dry, toss with 1 tsp of oil and seasoning, then air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway.
• Mozzarella Sticks: Use frozen or homemade breaded cheese sticks. Spray lightly with oil and air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden and melty inside.
• Chicken Tenders: Bread chicken strips with panko or seasoned flour, spray with oil, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–14 minutes, flipping once.

Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, lightly spray food with cooking oil or use an oil mister. Avoid overcrowding—air needs to circulate!

Vegetarian and Vegan Snack Ideas

Air fryers are a game-changer for plant-based eaters. You can achieve crispy textures on vegetables and tofu with minimal oil, making them ideal for vegan versions of fried favorites.

• Tofu Bites: Press extra-firm tofu, cube it, toss with soy sauce, garlic powder, and cornstarch, then air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 15 minutes until crispy. Serve with peanut sauce.
• Zucchini Fries: Slice zucchini into sticks, coat with breadcrumbs and Parmesan (or vegan cheese), spray with oil, and air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes.
• Sweet Potato Chips: Thinly slice sweet potatoes, toss with olive oil and sea salt, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Bonus: Try air-fried cauliflower wings—coat florets in buffalo sauce and panko, spray with oil, and cook at 400°F (204°C) for 12 minutes. Serve with ranch or vegan dip.

2. Roast and Reheat Vegetables to Perfection

Roasting vegetables in the oven can take 30–45 minutes, but an air fryer cuts that time in half while delivering better caramelization and texture. The high heat and airflow create a Maillard reaction, enhancing natural sweetness and giving veggies a delicious roasted finish.

Quick Roasting Techniques

Most vegetables can be roasted in 10–15 minutes at 375–400°F (190–204°C). The key is cutting them uniformly and avoiding overcrowding.

• Roasted Broccoli: Toss florets with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes. Finish with a squeeze of lemon.
• Brussels Sprouts: Halve sprouts, toss with oil, salt, and pepper. Air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 12–14 minutes until crisp on the edges.
• Carrot Coins: Slice carrots into rounds, toss with honey, thyme, and oil. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or chili flakes before roasting.

Reheating Leftover Veggies

One of the best uses of an air fryer is reviving leftover roasted or steamed vegetables. Unlike microwaving, which turns them soggy, air frying restores crispness in just 5–7 minutes.

• Reheat leftover roasted potatoes at 375°F (190°C) for 6 minutes.
• Bring back steamed broccoli by air frying at 360°F (182°C) for 5 minutes with a light oil spray.
• Even sautéed greens like kale or spinach can be crisped up at 350°F (177°C) for 4–5 minutes.

Why it works: The air fryer dehydrates the surface moisture quickly, creating a crisp exterior while keeping the interior tender—perfect for salads or grain bowls.

3. Cook Juicy Meats and Seafood with Ease

Air fryers aren’t just for sides and snacks—they’re excellent for cooking main proteins. From chicken breasts to salmon fillets, the air fryer delivers juicy, evenly cooked meat with a seared-like exterior in record time.

Perfect Chicken Every Time

Chicken is one of the most forgiving proteins in an air fryer. With the right seasoning and timing, you can achieve tender, juicy results every time.

• Chicken Breasts: Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Chicken Wings: Toss with oil and seasoning (or sauce after cooking). Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 20–25 minutes, shaking every 8 minutes. Finish with buffalo or BBQ sauce.
• Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs cook beautifully at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes. The skin crisps up while the meat stays juicy.

Pro Tip: For boneless cuts, avoid overcooking. Start checking doneness at 15 minutes. Let chicken rest for 3–5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Seafood Made Simple

Delicate fish and shellfish cook quickly in an air fryer, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

• Salmon Fillets: Season with lemon pepper, dill, and olive oil. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes. The skin gets crispy while the flesh stays moist.
• Shrimp: Toss with garlic butter and parsley. Air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 6–8 minutes. Serve with cocktail sauce.
• Fish Sticks: Use frozen or homemade breaded fish. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 10–12 minutes.

Bonus: Try air-fried scallops—sear them for 2 minutes per side at 400°F (204°C) for a golden crust and buttery interior.

4. Bake and Roast Small Batches of Desserts and Breads

Yes, you can bake in an air fryer! While it’s not a full replacement for an oven, the air fryer excels at small-batch baking—perfect for singles, couples, or when you don’t want to heat up a large oven.

Mini Desserts and Baked Goods

The compact size of an air fryer basket makes it ideal for individual portions of desserts. Use oven-safe ramekins, silicone molds, or small cake pans.

• Brownies: Prepare brownie batter and pour into a greased 6-inch pan. Air fry at 325°F (163°C) for 18–22 minutes. Insert a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s done.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies: Use a small cookie scoop, space them apart, and air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes.
• Apple Crisp: Layer sliced apples, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a ramekin. Air fry at 350°F (177°C) for 12–15 minutes. Top with ice cream!

Pro Tip: Always preheat the air fryer for baking. Line pans with parchment paper for easy removal.

Quick Breads and Muffins

Banana bread, cornbread, and muffins bake beautifully in an air fryer. Just adjust the time and temperature slightly from oven recipes.

• Banana Muffins: Use a standard muffin batter in silicone liners. Air fry at 325°F (163°C) for 12–15 minutes.
• Cinnamon Rolls: Use store-bought or homemade dough. Air fry at 330°F (165°C) for 10–12 minutes. Frost after cooling.
• Cornbread: Bake in a greased 6-inch pan at 350°F (177°C) for 18–20 minutes.

Why it’s great: No need to preheat a full oven, and cleanup is easy. Plus, you avoid over-baking since the heat is more concentrated.

5. Reheat and Revive Leftovers Like a Pro

One of the most underrated uses of an air fryer is reheating leftovers. Unlike microwaves, which make food soggy or rubbery, air fryers restore crispiness, texture, and flavor.

Reheating Fried and Baked Foods

Fried chicken, pizza, fries, and even baked pastries come back to life in the air fryer.

• Pizza: Place slices in a single layer. Air fry at 350°F (177°C) for 3–4 minutes until the crust is crisp and cheese is melty.
• Fried Chicken: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes. The skin regains its crunch!
• Pasta Dishes: For crispy-topped casseroles (like lasagna), air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 5–7 minutes. For saucy pasta, use a lower temp (320°F/160°C) to avoid drying.

Pro Tip: For saucy or moist dishes, cover with foil for the first half of cooking to prevent drying, then remove to crisp the top.

Reviving Breakfast Foods

Breakfast items like waffles, pancakes, and hash browns reheat beautifully.

• Hash Browns: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 4–5 minutes until crispy.
• Waffles: Reheat at 350°F (177°C) for 2–3 minutes. Add a pat of butter for extra richness.
• Breakfast Burritos: Wrap in foil and air fry at 330°F (165°C) for 6–8 minutes.

Bonus: Use the air fryer to warm tortillas or flatbreads at 300°F (149°C) for 1–2 minutes.

6. Experiment with Global Flavors and Creative Recipes

The air fryer is a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Its speed and efficiency make it perfect for exploring international cuisines and fusion dishes.

Global-Inspired Dishes

Try these easy, flavorful recipes from around the world:

• Korean-Style Chicken Bites: Marinate chicken in gochujang, soy sauce, and honey. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Serve with rice and kimchi.
• Indian-Spiced Cauliflower: Toss florets with turmeric, cumin, coriander, and yogurt. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 12 minutes. Finish with cilantro.
• Mexican Street Corn: Coat corn on the cob with mayo, chili powder, and cheese. Air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 10–12 minutes. Squeeze lime on top.

Creative Fusion Ideas

Mix and match flavors for unique meals:

• Air-Fried Sushi Bowl: Cook salmon and edamame in the air fryer, then assemble with rice, avocado, and spicy mayo.
• BBQ Pulled Jackfruit: Season jackfruit with BBQ rub, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, then shred. Serve on buns with slaw.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites: Cut store-bought garlic bread into cubes, air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 6 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Pro Tip: Use parchment paper liners or silicone mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Air Fryer Cooking Times and Temperatures at a Glance

Food	Temperature (°F)	Cooking Time (Minutes)	Notes
French Fries	380	15–20	Shake halfway, spray with oil
Chicken Breasts (boneless)	375	18–22	Flip halfway, check internal temp
Salmon Fillet	380	10–12	Season well, avoid overcooking
Broccoli	380	10–12	Toss with oil and garlic
Mozzarella Sticks	400	8–10	Use frozen or homemade
Brownies (6-inch pan)	325	18–22	Test with toothpick
Reheated Pizza	350	3–4	Single layer only
Tofu Bites	400	15	Coat with cornstarch for crispness

Note: Cooking times may vary based on air fryer model, food thickness, and starting temperature. Always check for doneness and adjust as needed.

Final Thoughts: Unlock the Full Potential of Your Air Fryer

The question “what can I do with an air fryer?” has countless answers. From crispy snacks and roasted vegetables to juicy meats, baked desserts, and global-inspired meals, this appliance is a multitasking powerhouse. It saves time, reduces oil use, and delivers restaurant-quality results in a fraction of the time.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, the air fryer encourages experimentation, healthier eating, and less cleanup. Try one new recipe each week—swap oven-roasted potatoes for air-fried ones, or turn leftover pizza into a crispy snack. The more you use it, the more you’ll discover its versatility.

So dust off your air fryer, grab your favorite ingredients, and start exploring. With these 10 delicious ideas and countless more to discover, your kitchen is about to get a whole lot more exciting. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do with an air fryer besides frying?

An air fryer is great for roasting vegetables, baking desserts, and reheating leftovers with a crispy texture. You can even dehydrate fruits or make homemade jerky using low-temperature settings.

Can you cook frozen foods in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fryers excel at cooking frozen foods like fries, chicken nuggets, or fish sticks—no thawing needed. They deliver a crispy result faster than an oven while using less oil.

What can I make in an air fryer for quick snacks?

Try air-fried mozzarella sticks, sweet potato wedges, or kale chips for healthy, crunchy bites. The air fryer’s rapid cooking makes it perfect for last-minute cravings.

Is an air fryer good for reheating food?

Absolutely! Unlike microwaves, air fryers reheat pizza, fried chicken, or fries while keeping them crispy. Just use medium heat for 3-5 minutes to avoid drying out leftovers.

What can I bake in an air fryer?

You can bake cookies, muffins, small cakes, or even garlic bread in most air fryer baskets. Use oven-safe dishes or parchment paper to avoid messes.

Can I cook proteins like chicken or fish in an air fryer?

Yes! Air-fried chicken wings, salmon fillets, or pork chops come out juicy with crispy skin. Marinate proteins first for extra flavor and cook at 375°F–400°F (190°C–200°C).