What Can You Cook in an Air Fryer for Dinner Tonight

You can cook a wide variety of delicious, crispy, and healthy dinners in an air fryer—from juicy chicken breasts and salmon fillets to roasted vegetables and even frozen favorites like french fries or mozzarella sticks. With minimal oil and fast cooking times, the air fryer is perfect for whipping up flavorful weeknight meals like garlic butter shrimp, stuffed bell peppers, or one-pan teriyaki chicken with broccoli in under 30 minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Air fryers cook fast: Whip up crispy meals in under 20 minutes.
• No preheating needed: Start cooking immediately for quick dinners.
• Healthier options: Use little to no oil for guilt-free favorites.
• Versatile cooking: Roast, bake, or reheat with one appliance.
• Easy cleanup: Non-stick baskets simplify post-meal cleanup.
• Perfect for leftovers: Reheat pizza or fries without sogginess.

What Can You Cook in an Air Fryer for Dinner Tonight?

If you’re like me, your weeknights are a juggling act—work, kids, chores, and the eternal question: “What’s for dinner?” The last thing you want is to stand over a hot stove or wait 45 minutes for the oven to preheat. Enter the air fryer: that little countertop appliance that’s been quietly revolutionizing home cooking. I remember the first time I used mine. I was skeptical. Could something that looks like a tiny spaceship really replace my oven, skillet, and toaster oven? Spoiler: it can—and it’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners.

The beauty of the air fryer lies in its simplicity and speed. It uses hot air circulation to crisp food without drowning it in oil, which means you get that satisfying crunch with less guilt. But it’s not just for reheating frozen nuggets. From juicy meats to crispy veggies and even desserts, the air fryer can handle a surprising range of dishes. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family of four, you can have a delicious, hot dinner on the table in under 30 minutes—sometimes even under 15. And the cleanup? Minimal. No greasy pans, no splattered stovetops. Just pop in the basket, press a few buttons, and walk away.

Protein Power: Air Fryer Meats and Poultry

When it comes to dinner, protein is often the star of the show. The air fryer excels at cooking meats and poultry quickly while locking in flavor and moisture. Unlike traditional frying, which can leave you with greasy, uneven results, air frying gives you a consistent, crispy exterior without overcooking the inside.

Chicken: Juicy and Crispy Every Time

Chicken is a weeknight staple, and the air fryer makes it foolproof. Whether you’re working with boneless breasts, thighs, or drumsticks, the air fryer delivers tender meat with a golden, crispy skin. Here’s a simple method I use:

• Prep: Pat the chicken dry, season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. For extra crispiness, lightly coat with a teaspoon of oil or cooking spray.
• Cook: Place in a single layer in the basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. For bone-in pieces, add 3–5 minutes.
• Check: Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

One of my favorite tricks is to marinate chicken thighs in buttermilk and spices overnight, then air fry them for a healthier version of fried chicken. The result? Crispy, juicy, and way less messy than deep frying.

Beef and Pork: Fast and Flavorful

Ground beef, steak, and pork chops all work beautifully in the air fryer. For beef burgers, form 4-ounce patties and cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping once. They come out juicy with a slight crust—no grill needed. For steak, choose thinner cuts like ribeye or flank steak. Season well, cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes (medium-rare), and let rest before slicing.

Pork chops can be tricky on the stovetop, but the air fryer solves that. A 1-inch thick chop needs about 12–14 minutes at 375°F. Pro tip: brine them in salt water for 30 minutes before cooking to prevent dryness. And don’t forget bacon—lay strips in the basket and cook at 390°F for 8–10 minutes. No splatter, no flipping, just perfect crispiness.

Fish and Seafood: Delicate and Done Right

Fish can be intimidating, but the air fryer makes it easy. Salmon fillets (skin on) cook beautifully at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. The skin crisps up, and the flesh stays moist. For breaded fish sticks or shrimp, lightly spray with oil and cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes. They come out crunchy without being greasy. Just be sure not to overcrowd the basket—air circulation is key.

Vegetables and Sides: Crispy, Tender, and Tasty

Let’s be honest: veggies often get the short end of the stick at dinner. They’re either boiled into oblivion or forgotten entirely. But the air fryer transforms vegetables into something you’ll actually crave—crispy, flavorful, and ready in minutes.

Roasted Veggies: No Oil, No Fuss

One of the biggest wins with the air fryer is how little oil you need. A light spray is enough to get that perfect crunch. Try these combos:

• Broccoli: Toss florets with a teaspoon of oil, salt, and garlic powder. Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. Crisp edges, tender inside.
• Brussels sprouts: Halve them, toss with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and air fry at 390°F for 12–15 minutes. They caramelize beautifully.
• Sweet potatoes: Cut into wedges or cubes, toss with paprika and a dash of oil. Cook at 380°F for 15–18 minutes. Crispy outside, fluffy inside.

Pro tip: cut veggies evenly so they cook at the same rate. And don’t be afraid to shake the basket halfway through—this ensures even browning.

Fries and Taters: Healthier Comfort Food

Who doesn’t love fries? The air fryer makes them guilt-free. Regular fries: Cut potatoes into sticks, soak in water for 30 minutes to remove starch, pat dry, then toss with oil and salt. Cook at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking once. Sweet potato fries: Same method, but add a pinch of cinnamon for a sweet twist.

For a fun twist, try tater tots or hash browns—no need to preheat the oven. Just pop them in at 400°F for 12–15 minutes. They’re crispier than the oven and use way less oil.

Grain-Free and Vegan Sides

The air fryer is a godsend for plant-based eaters. Roasted chickpeas make a crunchy, protein-packed snack or side. Toss with cumin, chili powder, and a little oil, then cook at 390°F for 15–20 minutes, shaking occasionally. For stuffed bell peppers, fill them with quinoa, black beans, and corn, then air fry at 375°F for 20 minutes. They come out tender with a slight char.

One-Pan Wonders: Complete Dinners in One Basket

One of the best things about the air fryer is its ability to cook entire meals in one go. No need to juggle multiple pans or timers. Just layer, season, and let the air fryer do the work.

Sheet-Pan Style Dinners (Air Fryer Edition)

Think of the air fryer basket as a mini sheet pan. For a chicken and veggie tray, place chicken thighs in the center, surround with broccoli, carrots, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with rosemary and garlic, then cook at 375°F for 20–25 minutes. The chicken juices flavor the veggies—no extra sauce needed.

For a fajita-style dinner, layer chicken strips, bell peppers, and onions. Toss with fajita seasoning and a splash of lime juice. Cook at 390°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking once. Serve with tortillas and guacamole.

Foil Packs and Parchment Pouches

Want even easier cleanup? Use foil or parchment. For salmon and asparagus, place salmon on a foil sheet, top with asparagus, lemon slices, and a pat of butter. Fold the foil into a packet and cook at 380°F for 12–15 minutes. The steam keeps everything moist and flavorful.

For shrimp scampi, combine shrimp, garlic, butter, lemon juice, and parsley in a parchment pouch. Cook at 390°F for 10–12 minutes. Unwrap and serve over rice or pasta.

Stuffed and Rolled Dishes

The air fryer is perfect for stuffed items. Try stuffed chicken breasts: butterfly a breast, fill with spinach, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes, then roll and secure with toothpicks. Cook at 375°F for 20–22 minutes. Or make beef and broccoli rolls: flatten flank steak, layer with broccoli and cheese, roll, and cook at 380°F for 15 minutes. Slice and serve.

Frozen and Leftovers: Quick, Crispy, and Delicious

Let’s face it—sometimes you just don’t have time to cook from scratch. The air fryer is your best friend for frozen foods and reheating leftovers, giving them a fresh, crispy texture without drying them out.

Frozen Favorites, Air-Fried

Forget soggy microwaved nuggets. The air fryer turns frozen foods into crispy, restaurant-quality bites. Here’s how to do it right:

• Chicken nuggets: Cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking once. They’re crispier than the oven.
• Frozen pizza rolls: 10–12 minutes at 390°F. No need to thaw—just cook straight from the freezer.
• Frozen fish fillets: 12–15 minutes at 375°F. Lightly spray with oil for extra crispness.

Pro tip: don’t overcrowd the basket. Frozen foods need space for air to circulate. Cook in batches if needed.

Reheating Leftovers: Better Than the Microwave

Microwaves turn leftovers into rubbery, uneven messes. The air fryer restores texture. For pizza, place a slice in the basket and cook at 350°F for 3–4 minutes. The crust crisps up, and the cheese melts just enough. For chicken wings, reheat at 380°F for 5–6 minutes. They come out as good as new.

Even rice and pasta dishes can be revived. Spread them in a thin layer, spray with water or broth, and heat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes. The air fryer evaporates excess moisture, leaving you with fluffy, flavorful leftovers.

Beyond the Basics: Creative and Unexpected Dinners

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative. The air fryer can handle more than you think—from whole chickens to desserts. It’s all about thinking outside the basket.

Whole Chicken and Roast Dinners

Yes, you can cook a whole chicken in the air fryer! Choose a 3–4 lb bird, season with salt, pepper, and herbs, and place breast-side down in the basket. Cook at 350°F for 30 minutes, flip, and cook another 25–30 minutes. The skin gets crispy, and the meat stays juicy. For a roast chicken dinner, add carrots, potatoes, and onions to the basket. They cook in the chicken’s juices—flavor overload.

Breakfast-for-Dinner (and Other Twists)

Breakfast foods make great dinners. Try air fryer breakfast burritos: wrap scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese in a tortilla, spray with oil, and cook at 375°F for 5–6 minutes. Or make hash brown casserole: layer shredded potatoes, cheese, and bacon in a heatproof dish, cover with foil, and cook at 390°F for 20 minutes. Remove foil and cook 5 more minutes for a golden top.

For a fun twist, try quesadillas. Place a tortilla in the basket, add cheese and fillings, top with another tortilla, and cook at 375°F for 4–5 minutes per side. They come out perfectly crispy.

Desserts and Sweets (Yes, Really!)

The air fryer isn’t just for savory dishes. You can make desserts too! Try apple slices tossed with cinnamon and sugar, cooked at 375°F for 8–10 minutes. Or make banana boats: slice a banana lengthwise, fill with chocolate chips and marshmallows, wrap in foil, and cook at 380°F for 6–8 minutes. Melty, gooey perfection.

For a quick treat, baked apples stuffed with oats, brown sugar, and nuts cook at 375°F for 15–20 minutes. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—dinner and dessert in one.

Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting

Even the best air fryer can have hiccups. Here’s how to get the most out of your appliance—and avoid common pitfalls.

Mastering the Basics

• Preheat when needed: For crispy results, preheat the air fryer for 3–5 minutes before adding food.
• Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between items for air to circulate. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Shake or flip: Most foods benefit from a mid-cook shake or flip for even browning.

Adjusting for Your Model

Air fryers vary in size and power. A smaller basket (3–4 quarts) may cook faster than a larger one (5–6 quarts). Always check food a few minutes before the recipe time. Use an instant-read thermometer for meats.

If food is browning too fast, lower the temperature by 25°F and extend the time slightly. If it’s not crispy enough, spray with a little more oil and cook 2–3 minutes longer.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The non-stick basket is easy to clean—just wash with warm, soapy water. For stuck-on bits, soak in hot water for 10 minutes. Avoid metal utensils to prevent scratching. For the heating element, wipe with a damp cloth when cool.

One thing to note: the air fryer can smoke if there’s excess oil or food debris. Keep it clean, and avoid cooking overly greasy foods without a drip tray.

Food Type	Temp (°F)	Time (min)	Tips
Chicken breasts (boneless)	375	12–15	Flip halfway; check internal temp (165°F)
Salmon fillet	375	10–12	Skin side down; lightly oil
Broccoli	375	10–12	Toss with oil and garlic powder
Sweet potato fries	380	15–18	Shake once; cut evenly
Frozen chicken nuggets	400	8–10	No thawing needed

The air fryer is more than just a trendy gadget—it’s a practical tool for busy people who want delicious, healthy dinners without the hassle. From crispy chicken to roasted veggies, frozen favorites to creative one-pan meals, the possibilities are endless. And the best part? You don’t have to be a chef to get great results. Just pop in your food, set the timer, and enjoy a hot, satisfying dinner in minutes.

So the next time you’re staring into the fridge wondering “What can I cook in an air fryer for dinner tonight?”, remember: the answer is almost anything. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, the air fryer delivers speed, flavor, and ease—without sacrificing taste. Give it a try tonight. Your future self will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you cook in an air fryer for dinner tonight?

You can make quick, delicious dinners like crispy chicken tenders, garlic butter shrimp, or even stuffed bell peppers—all with minimal oil and maximum flavor. The air fryer’s speed and versatility make it perfect for last-minute meals.

Can I cook frozen foods in an air fryer for dinner?

Absolutely! The air fryer excels at cooking frozen foods like chicken nuggets, fish sticks, or even frozen veggie burgers with a crispy finish. No thawing needed—just adjust cooking time slightly for best results.

What are some healthy dinner options in an air fryer?

Try air-fried salmon, roasted sweet potatoes, or turkey meatballs for low-oil, nutrient-rich meals. The air fryer locks in moisture while achieving a golden, crispy texture without excess fat.

Can you cook a full dinner (entree + sides) in an air fryer at once?

Yes! Use dividers or cook in batches to make a balanced meal like chicken thighs with broccoli and carrots. Many air fryer baskets have enough space for small portions of multiple dishes.

What meats work best in an air fryer for dinner?

Chicken breasts, pork chops, steak bites, and sausages cook exceptionally well in an air fryer. The high heat sears the outside while keeping the inside juicy—ideal for fast weeknight dinners.

Are there vegetarian or vegan dinner ideas for an air fryer?

Definitely! Make crispy tofu nuggets, roasted chickpeas, or stuffed portobello mushrooms. The air fryer adds crunch to plant-based proteins and veggies in minutes.