What Can I Make in the Air Fryer 10 Easy Recipes to Try

The air fryer is a versatile kitchen powerhouse that lets you make everything from crispy snacks to full meals with minimal oil. You can whip up 10 easy recipes—including golden french fries, juicy chicken wings, roasted vegetables, and even desserts like air-fried apples—quickly and healthily. Perfect for busy home cooks, this appliance delivers delicious, crispy results in minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Master quick meals: Whip up crispy chicken tenders in 15 minutes with minimal oil.
• Reinvent leftovers: Revive pizza and fries to crispy perfection in under 5 minutes.
• Try healthy swaps: Make guilt-free mozzarella sticks using whole-grain breadcrumbs.
• Cook frozen foods: Achieve golden, even results with frozen dumplings or spring rolls.
• Roast veggies effortlessly: Toss broccoli or Brussels sprouts for caramelized edges in 12 minutes.
• Bake without oven: Prepare fluffy muffins or cookies using air fryer-safe pans.

What Can I Make in the Air Fryer? Let’s Break It Down

If you’ve ever stared at your air fryer, wondering, “What can I make in the air fryer?”—you’re not alone. I was in that exact spot a few years ago. I bought mine on a whim, lured by the promise of crispy, guilt-free food without the hassle of deep frying. But then I opened the box, read the manual (well, skimmed it), and realized I had no clue where to start. Was it just for reheating leftovers? Could I actually cook full meals in it?

Turns out, the answer is a resounding yes. From golden fries to juicy chicken, flaky fish, and even baked desserts, the air fryer is a kitchen superhero. It uses hot air circulation to crisp food with little to no oil—making it healthier, faster, and less messy than traditional methods. And the best part? You don’t need to be a chef. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who hates scrubbing greasy pans, the air fryer can simplify your life. In this post, I’ll walk you through 10 easy recipes you can make in your air fryer, share my favorite tips, and help you answer that burning question: What can I make in the air fryer that actually tastes good?

1. Classic Comfort Foods – Crisp, Quick, and Oil-Light

Let’s start with the basics—comfort foods that most of us already love but often avoid due to the mess of frying. The air fryer transforms these into crispy, satisfying dishes with minimal effort. I’ll never forget my first air fryer success: homemade mozzarella sticks. I was skeptical—would they melt and leak? But with a few tricks, they came out golden and gooey, with just a light spray of oil.

Air Fryer French Fries (From Frozen or Fresh)

One of the most popular air fryer recipes is fries. You can use frozen store-bought fries for convenience or slice up fresh potatoes for a more homemade touch. I prefer fresh—russet or Yukon Gold—because they give that perfect balance of crisp outside and fluffy inside.

• Fresh Fries: Slice 2 large potatoes into ¼-inch sticks. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes to remove starch (this prevents sogginess). Pat dry, toss with 1 tsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Air fry at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway.
• Frozen Fries: No prep needed! Just place in the basket (don’t overcrowd), spray lightly with oil, and cook at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking once.

Pro tip: For extra crispiness, preheat the air fryer for 3–5 minutes before adding the fries. And never use too much oil—it can cause smoke and uneven cooking.

Chicken Wings – Restaurant-Quality at Home

Wings are a game-changer in the air fryer. No deep fryer, no greasy mess, just sticky, saucy, crunchy perfection. I’ve made these for game nights and they always disappear first.

• Pat dry 1 lb of chicken wings (whole or split).
• Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of paprika.
• Air fry at 380°F for 20 minutes, flip, then 15 minutes more.
• Toss in your favorite sauce (buffalo, honey garlic, BBQ) and serve.

Bonus: You can even make “naked” wings by skipping the sauce and serving with blue cheese or ranch. They’re still crispy and delicious!

Onion Rings and Mozzarella Sticks

These are where the air fryer really shines. The high heat creates a golden crust without soaking the breading in oil.

• Onion Rings: Use large onions, slice into rings, dip in flour, egg wash, then panko breadcrumbs. Spray lightly with oil. Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Mozzarella Sticks: Use frozen ones for best results (they hold shape better). Air fry at 390°F for 6–8 minutes. Watch closely—cheese can leak if overcooked!

These are perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer. And cleanup? Just wipe the basket—no greasy stovetop to scrub.

2. Healthy Alternatives – Lighter Versions of Your Favorites

One of the biggest perks of the air fryer is its ability to make healthier versions of indulgent foods. You get the crunch and flavor without the 10 cups of oil. As someone who used to avoid fried foods due to health concerns, this was a game-changer.

Zucchini Fries and Sweet Potato Chips

These are my go-to veggie sides. They’re low-calorie, packed with nutrients, and surprisingly addictive.

• Zucchini Fries: Cut zucchini into sticks, coat in egg, then seasoned breadcrumbs (try adding Parmesan and garlic powder). Spray with oil. Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes.
• Sweet Potato Chips: Thinly slice sweet potatoes (use a mandoline for even slices). Toss with a tiny bit of oil and salt. Air fry in a single layer at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Tip: Don’t overlap the slices—airflow is key for crispiness. And if your chips are soggy, they probably needed a few more minutes.

Air Fryer Salmon – Tender, Flaky, and Ready in 12 Minutes

Fish in the air fryer? Absolutely. Salmon cooks beautifully—moist inside, slightly crisp on the outside. No fishy smell lingering in your kitchen, either.

• Season 1 salmon fillet (6–8 oz) with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Place skin-side down in the basket. Air fry at 390°F for 10–12 minutes.
• Serve with a squeeze of lemon and fresh herbs.

This is one of my favorite weeknight dinners. It’s ready before the rice even finishes cooking. And if you’re worried about overcooking, remember: salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Parmesan

Brussels sprouts get a bad rap, but in the air fryer, they’re caramelized, crispy, and delicious. I’ve converted many a skeptic with this recipe.

• Trim and halve 1 lb Brussels sprouts.
• Toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• Air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway.
• Top with grated Parmesan and a splash of balsamic glaze before serving.

The high heat brings out their natural sweetness. And no more soggy, steamed sprouts!

3. One-Pan Dinners – Easy, Balanced Meals in One Basket

When you’re short on time or don’t want to wash multiple pans, the air fryer is your best friend. You can cook protein, veggies, and even carbs all in one go. I use this trick at least three times a week.

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots

This is my go-to Sunday dinner. Minimal prep, maximum flavor.

• Season 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
• Toss 1 lb baby potatoes and 2 chopped carrots with oil and rosemary.
• Place chicken on top of veggies in the basket (skin side up).
• Air fry at 380°F for 25–30 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F internally.

The chicken skin gets incredibly crispy, and the potatoes soak up all the juices. I usually add a lemon wedge to the basket for brightness. One basket, one cleanup—perfect.

Sheet-Pan-Style Veggie and Sausage Medley

Think of this as a sheet-pan dinner, but with even better airflow and crispiness.

• Slice 4 sausages (chicken, turkey, or plant-based) and 2 bell peppers.
• Add 1 zucchini, 1 red onion, and 1 cup cherry tomatoes.
• Toss with oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
• Air fry at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway.

I love this for meal prep. Cook a big batch on Sunday and reheat for lunches. The veggies stay crisp, and the sausages get that perfect snap.

Foil Packet Meals – For Tender, Moist Results

Sometimes you want something juicier—like fish or chicken breasts. That’s where foil packets come in. They trap steam, keeping food moist while still getting some crisp from the air.

• Place 1 chicken breast or fish fillet in a foil square.
• Add sliced lemon, herbs, and a splash of white wine or broth.
• Seal tightly and air fry at 375°F for 15–20 minutes.

I use this method for delicate proteins or when I want to infuse flavor without drying them out. Just be careful when opening—steam is hot!

4. Snacks and Appetizers – Perfect for Parties or Cravings

Snacking just got a whole lot healthier. The air fryer makes it easy to whip up crispy, flavorful bites without the guilt. And they’re ready in minutes—no preheating, no mess.

Air Fryer Popcorn – Yes, Really!

Believe it or not, you can make popcorn in the air fryer. It’s faster than stovetop and uses less oil.

• Add ¼ cup popcorn kernels and 1 tsp oil to a heat-safe bowl (like a metal mixing bowl).
• Cover with foil, poke 6–8 small holes in the top.
• Place in air fryer at 400°F for 5–7 minutes, until popping slows.
• Season with salt, nutritional yeast, or your favorite spice blend.

Just make sure the bowl fits and doesn’t block airflow. And never use glass—it can crack from the heat.

Stuffed Mushrooms and Mini Quiches

These are perfect for brunch or as a fancy appetizer.

• Stuffed Mushrooms: Remove stems from 12 button mushrooms. Mix stems with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, and herbs. Fill caps, spray with oil, air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
• Mini Quiches: Whisk 3 eggs, ¼ cup milk, salt, and pepper. Add cheese, spinach, and diced ham. Pour into silicone muffin cups, air fry at 320°F for 12–15 minutes.

Both can be made ahead and reheated. The quiches are especially great for meal prep—freeze and reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes.

Sweet Potato Toast and Avocado Rounds

For a trendy, healthy snack, try these:

• Sweet Potato Toast: Slice sweet potatoes into ½-inch thick rounds. Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flip, 5–7 more minutes. Top with avocado, egg, or nut butter.
• Avocado Rounds: Halve and pit avocados, brush with oil, sprinkle with salt. Air fry at 375°F for 5–6 minutes. Serve with lime and chili flakes.

These are Instagram-worthy and actually good for you. Win-win.

5. Baking and Desserts – Yes, You Can Bake in an Air Fryer!

Most people don’t realize you can bake in an air fryer. I was skeptical too—until I made my first air fryer brownie. It was dense, fudgy, and ready in 15 minutes. Mind blown.

Air Fryer Brownies and Cookies

You can use regular cake or cookie batter in the air fryer. Just adjust the time and temperature.

• Brownies: Pour boxed or homemade batter into a greased 6-inch pan. Air fry at 320°F for 15–18 minutes. Let cool before cutting.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies: Scoop dough onto parchment paper. Air fry at 320°F for 8–10 minutes. They’ll be soft in the middle—perfect!

Tip: Use smaller pans or silicone molds. The air fryer cooks faster than an oven, so check early. And never use non-stick spray on silicone—it can degrade the material.

Apple Chips and Banana “Ice Cream”

For healthy treats, try these:

• Apple Chips: Thinly slice apples (remove core). Air fry at 360°F for 8–10 minutes, flip, 5–7 more minutes. No oil needed!
• Banana Ice Cream: Freeze banana slices, blend until smooth. For an air fryer twist: slice banana, air fry at 375°F for 5 minutes, then blend with a splash of milk. Creamy, warm “ice cream”!

These are great for kids—or adults who want a sweet fix without the sugar crash.

Mini Cakes and Muffins

Perfect for single servings or portion control.

• Use silicone muffin cups or small ramekins.
• Fill with batter (vanilla, chocolate, or lemon).
• Air fry at 320°F for 12–15 minutes.

I make these for breakfast or as a quick dessert. And cleanup is a breeze—just pop out the silicone cup.

6. Reheating and Leftovers – The Air Fryer’s Hidden Superpower

Here’s a secret: the air fryer is the best way to reheat leftovers. No more soggy pizza or rubbery chicken. The hot air restores crispness like magic.

Pizza, Fried Chicken, and French Fries

Forget the microwave. These come out better than when they were fresh.

• Pizza: Place slice in basket, air fry at 375°F for 3–4 minutes. Crispy crust, melted cheese—perfect.
• Fried Chicken: Reheat at 375°F for 5–6 minutes. Skin stays crispy, meat stays juicy.
• Fries: 375°F for 3–5 minutes. Shake once. They’re back to golden perfection.

I use this daily. My kids actually fight over who gets to reheat the pizza. That’s how good it is.

Reheating Bread and Baked Goods

Bagels, muffins, croissants—revive them with a quick air fry.

• Place in basket, air fry at 320°F for 2–3 minutes.
• For crusty bread, spray lightly with water first.

This is a game-changer for breakfast. No more stale pastries.

Data: Air Fryer vs. Oven/Microwave – Reheating Time Comparison

Food	Air Fryer (Time)	Oven (Time)	Microwave (Time)	Crispiness
Pizza	3–4 min	10–12 min	1–2 min	Excellent (Air Fryer)
Fried Chicken	5–6 min	15–20 min	2–3 min	Good (Air Fryer)
French Fries	3–5 min	12–15 min	1–2 min	Excellent (Air Fryer)
Muffins	2–3 min	10–12 min	1–2 min	Good (Air Fryer)

As you can see, the air fryer wins on speed and texture. It’s not just for cooking—it’s a reheating powerhouse.

So, back to that original question: What can I make in the air fryer? The answer is almost anything. From crispy snacks to full dinners, healthy sides to decadent desserts, the air fryer is one of the most versatile tools in your kitchen. I’ve used mine for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even late-night snacks. And the best part? It’s simple, fast, and clean.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try new seasonings, swap ingredients, and don’t stress if something doesn’t turn out perfect the first time. I’ve had my share of burnt fries and undercooked chicken. But each time, I learned a little more. And now, I can’t imagine cooking without it.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the air fryer has something for you. So dust it off, grab a potato, and start cooking. You’ll be amazed at what you can make—and how much easier your life can be. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can make easy air fryer recipes like crispy chicken tenders, garlic butter shrimp, or stuffed bell peppers in under 30 minutes. The air fryer’s rapid cooking and minimal oil make it perfect for fast, healthy meals.

Can I bake desserts in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Try air fryer brownies, apple chips, or mini fruit crisps for a quick, guilt-free treat. The air fryer circulates heat evenly, giving desserts a golden finish without drying them out.

What can I make in the air fryer that’s kid-friendly?

Kids love air fryer mozzarella sticks, sweet potato fries, or bite-sized chicken meatballs. These recipes are crunchy, mess-free, and require less oil than traditional frying.

Are there healthy snacks I can make in the air fryer?

Yes! Roasted chickpeas, zucchini chips, or kale crisps are nutritious, crunchy options. The air fryer uses up to 80% less oil than deep frying, making them a healthier alternative.

Can I cook frozen foods in the air fryer without thawing?

Definitely! Frozen foods like fish sticks, tater tots, or dumplings cook perfectly in the air fryer with no thawing needed. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for even results.

What are the easiest air fryer recipes for beginners?

Start with simple air fryer recipes like hard-boiled eggs, garlic bread, or roasted potatoes. These require minimal prep and teach you how to master timing and temperature settings.