What Can I Make in Air Fryer 15 Delicious Recipes to Try Today

Discover 15 delicious, easy-to-make recipes that unlock the full potential of your air fryer, from crispy appetizers to juicy mains and even desserts—all with minimal oil and maximum flavor. Whether you’re craving golden chicken wings, roasted vegetables, or decadent chocolate chip cookies, this guide answers what you can make in an air fryer to save time and eat healthier without sacrificing taste.

Key Takeaways

• Start simple: Perfect crispy fries and chicken wings in minutes.
• Reheat leftovers: Restore crunch to pizza and fried foods effortlessly.
• Cook frozen foods: No thawing needed—air fry straight from freezer.
• Make healthy meals: Use less oil for guilt-free fried favorites.
• Try desserts: Bake cookies, churros, or fruit crisps with ease.
• Save time: Faster than oven cooking with minimal cleanup required.

What Can I Make in Air Fryer? 15 Delicious Recipes to Try Today

Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling family meals, or someone looking to eat better, this countertop appliance delivers crispy, golden results with minimal oil. But if you’re staring at your air fryer wondering what can I make in air fryer beyond frozen snacks, you’re not alone. The truth is, your air fryer is a culinary powerhouse capable of transforming everything from vegetables to desserts with ease.

The versatility of the air fryer lies in its rapid air circulation technology, which evenly cooks food while creating a satisfying crunch. With just a fraction of the oil used in deep frying, you can achieve restaurant-quality results in a fraction of the time. From quick weeknight dinners to impressive party appetizers, the possibilities are nearly endless. In this guide, we’ll explore 15 delicious recipes to try today, categorized by meal type and cooking technique, so you can unlock the full potential of your air fryer. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned user, these ideas will inspire your next kitchen adventure.

Breakfast & Brunch: Start Your Day the Crispy Way

Breakfast doesn’t have to be boring or time-consuming. Your air fryer can whip up morning favorites in minutes, with a fraction of the cleanup. The high heat and rapid airflow create perfectly toasted textures and fluffy interiors—ideal for starting your day on a delicious note.

Air Fryer French Toast Sticks

Transform stale bread into golden, custardy sticks with this quick recipe. Cut bread into strips, dip in a mixture of eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla, then coat lightly in panko or breadcrumbs. Spray with cooking oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway. Serve with maple syrup or powdered sugar. Pro tip: Use thick-cut challah or brioche for maximum flavor and texture.

Hard-Boiled Eggs (Yes, Really!)

Forget boiling water—air fryer eggs are easier and more consistent. Place raw eggs in the basket and cook at 270°F (132°C) for 15 minutes. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. The shells peel effortlessly, and the yolks stay creamy. Bonus: No risk of cracked shells or messy cleanup.

Hash Browns & Breakfast Potatoes

Shredded potatoes tossed with olive oil, salt, and paprika turn into crispy, golden hash browns in 12–15 minutes at 400°F (205°C). For breakfast potatoes, dice russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, toss with oil and seasonings, and cook in batches. Stir occasionally for even browning. Tip: Pre-cook potatoes in the microwave for 2 minutes to reduce air fryer time.

Lunch & Dinner: Hearty Mains in Minutes

When time is tight, your air fryer can deliver satisfying, full-flavored meals without heating up the kitchen. From protein-packed entrees to vegetable-forward dishes, these recipes prove that convenience doesn’t mean compromise.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are a game-changer. Pat them dry, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, then spray lightly with oil. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once. The skin becomes crackling-crisp, while the meat stays juicy. Flavor twist: Add a glaze of honey and soy sauce in the last 5 minutes.

Salmon with Lemon & Dill

Salmon fillets cook perfectly in the air fryer—no more dry, overcooked fish. Place seasoned fillets (skin-side down) on parchment paper, top with lemon slices and fresh dill, and cook at 390°F (199°C) for 10–12 minutes. The result? Tender, flaky salmon with a delicate sear. Tip: Line the basket with parchment to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Hollow out bell peppers and fill with a mixture of cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Top with cheese, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes. The peppers soften while the filling stays flavorful. Vegetarian option: Use lentils instead of meat.

Meatloaf & Mini Meatballs

Shape ground beef (or turkey) into a loaf or 1-inch balls, mix with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes (meatloaf) or 10–12 minutes (meatballs). For a glaze, brush with ketchup or BBQ sauce in the last 3 minutes. Pro tip: Place a small oven-safe dish under the meat to catch drippings.

Vegetables & Sides: Crispy, Flavorful, and Nutritious

Vegetables shine in the air fryer, transforming into caramelized, crunchy delights with minimal effort. The high heat draws out natural sugars, creating a flavor profile that even picky eaters will love.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Toss halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The outer leaves crisp up while the centers stay tender. Flavor boost: Add crispy bacon bits before serving.

Sweet Potato Fries

Cut sweet potatoes into ¼-inch sticks, toss with oil, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne. Air fry at 400°F (205°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping once. For extra crispiness, soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes first to remove excess starch. Serve with chipotle mayo or honey mustard.

Roasted Garlic & Herb Cauliflower

Break cauliflower into florets, toss with minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme. Air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 14–16 minutes. The edges char slightly, adding a smoky depth. Tip: Sprinkle with lemon zest after cooking for brightness.

Corn on the Cob

Leave the husk on and air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 12–15 minutes. The steam trapped inside keeps the kernels juicy, while the husk chars for a grilled effect. Peel and serve with butter or chili-lime seasoning. No-husk method: Soak ears in water for 10 minutes, then wrap in foil and cook for 15 minutes.

Appetizers & Snacks: Crowd-Pleasing Bites

Impress guests (or satisfy your snack cravings) with these easy, addictive appetizers. The air fryer’s speed and consistency make it perfect for batch-cooking party favorites.

Mozzarella Sticks

Use store-bought or homemade mozzarella sticks. Freeze for 30 minutes, then coat in seasoned breadcrumbs. Lightly spray with oil and air fry at 400°F (205°C) for 6–8 minutes. Serve with marinara sauce. Pro tip: Double-freeze to prevent cheese from leaking.

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Coat cauliflower florets in flour, egg, and panko, then air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 12 minutes. Toss with buffalo sauce and return to the basket for 2–3 minutes to set the glaze. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing. Vegan option: Use plant-based butter in the sauce.

Garlic Knots

Roll store-bought pizza dough into ropes, tie into knots, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. Brush with garlic butter and sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan. The knots puff up and develop a golden crust. Tip: Preheat the air fryer for 2 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Loaded Nachos

Layer tortilla chips with shredded cheese, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes until cheese melts. Top with sour cream, avocado, and jalapeños. Protein add-in: Sprinkle with shredded chicken or ground beef.

Desserts & Sweet Treats: Indulge Without the Guilt

Yes, you can bake desserts in your air fryer! The rapid air circulation creates a crisp exterior while keeping the interior soft and gooey—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with less guilt.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet

Press cookie dough into a greased oven-safe skillet or cake pan. Air fry at 325°F (163°C) for 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Tip: Use a 6-inch skillet to prevent over-spreading.

Apple Chips

Thinly slice apples (use a mandoline for even cuts), toss with cinnamon, and air fry at 350°F (177°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. The chips crisp up beautifully and last for days in an airtight container. Variations: Try pear, banana, or even kiwi slices.

Brownie Bites

Fill silicone molds or cupcake liners with brownie batter. Air fry at 325°F (163°C) for 12–15 minutes. The center stays fudgy while the tops develop a crackly crust. Top with powdered sugar or chocolate chips. Pro tip: Check doneness with a toothpick—it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Donut Holes

Roll biscuit dough into balls, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes until puffed and golden. Roll in cinnamon sugar or dip in glaze. For a decadent twist, inject with chocolate or fruit jam using a piping bag.

Air Fryer Cooking Guide: Tips, Times & Temperatures

To help you master your air fryer, here’s a quick-reference table for common foods. Always preheat your air fryer for 2–3 minutes when cooking dense items like meats or frozen foods. Remember, cooking times may vary based on appliance model and food thickness.

Food	Temperature	Cooking Time	Tips
Chicken Breast	375°F (190°C)	12–15 minutes	Flip halfway; use meat thermometer (165°F internal)
Frozen Fries	400°F (205°C)	12–15 minutes	Shake basket halfway; avoid overcrowding
Asparagus	390°F (199°C)	8–10 minutes	Toss with oil; trim woody ends
Frozen Fish Sticks	400°F (205°C)	8–10 minutes	Lightly spray with oil for extra crispiness
Banana Chips	350°F (177°C)	8–10 minutes	Flip halfway; store in airtight container
Egg Rolls	375°F (190°C)	10–12 minutes	Spray with oil; serve with sweet chili sauce

General Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Leave space between items for air circulation.
• Shake or flip halfway: Ensures even cooking and prevents soggy spots.
• Use parchment liners: Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.
• Adjust for frozen foods: Add 2–3 minutes to cooking time and preheat the basket.
• Experiment with oils: Avocado, grapeseed, or coconut oil add flavor and crispness.

Now that you’ve discovered the answer to what can I make in air fryer, it’s time to get cooking! With these 15 recipes—from crispy chicken thighs to decadent brownie bites—you’ll turn your air fryer into a go-to tool for every meal. Whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast, a weeknight dinner, or a show-stopping dessert, this appliance delivers speed, flavor, and convenience without compromising on health. So preheat your basket, gather your ingredients, and let the air frying begin. Your taste buds (and your busy schedule) will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I make in an air fryer for quick weeknight dinners?

You can make juicy chicken tenders, crispy salmon fillets, or garlic butter shrimp in under 20 minutes. The air fryer’s rapid circulation cooks proteins evenly while keeping them tender inside.

Are there healthy recipes I can try in my air fryer?

Absolutely! Try air fryer roasted vegetables, baked sweet potatoes, or skin-on chicken thighs for low-oil, nutrient-rich meals. The air fryer reduces oil use by up to 80% compared to traditional frying.

What can I make in air fryer for breakfast?

Make fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or even breakfast potatoes with minimal prep. For a sweet option, try air-fried banana chips or oatmeal cups.

Can I cook frozen foods in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fryers are perfect for frozen foods like mozzarella sticks, tater tots, or fish sticks—no thawing needed. They cook faster than ovens and deliver crispier results.

What desserts can I make in an air fryer?

Try air-fried apple chips, churros, or even mini cheesecakes. The air fryer caramelizes sugars beautifully for desserts with a crisp, golden finish.

What can I make in air fryer for a crowd?

Opt for crowd-pleasers like buffalo wings, garlic parmesan fries, or stuffed jalapeños. The air fryer cooks batches quickly, making it ideal for entertaining.