What Can You Cook with Air Fryer 15 Delicious Recipes to Try

You can cook almost anything in an air fryer, from crispy fries and juicy chicken wings to baked potatoes and even desserts like churros. This versatile appliance delivers golden, crunchy results with little to no oil, making it perfect for healthier versions of your favorite fried foods in minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Crisp vegetables perfectly: Achieve golden, crunchy textures with minimal oil in under 15 minutes.
• Reheat leftovers like new: Restore crispiness to fries, pizza, and more without sogginess.
• Cook proteins evenly: Air-fry chicken, fish, or steak with juicy interiors and crispy exteriors.
• Make guilt-free snacks: Whip up mozzarella sticks, wings, or nuggets with 80% less fat.
• Bake desserts effortlessly: Try air-fried donuts, apples, or cookies for quick sweet treats.
• Freezer-to-table meals: Skip thawing—cook frozen foods straight in the air fryer.

What Can You Cook with Air Fryer? 15 Delicious Recipes to Try

So, you’ve got an air fryer. Maybe it’s sitting on your counter, still wrapped in plastic, or maybe you’ve already tried a few things but are wondering, “What can I cook with air fryer?” You’re not alone. I remember when I first brought mine home—I stared at it like it was a spaceship. I knew it could “fry” things without oil, but beyond frozen nuggets, I had no clue where to start.

Fast forward a few months, and that air fryer is now one of my most-used kitchen tools. It’s not just for crispy fries or reheating pizza. This little appliance is a multitasking powerhouse. From juicy chicken breasts to flaky salmon, even desserts and veggies that taste like they’ve been grilled—air fryers do it all. And the best part? They’re fast, easy, and way healthier than deep frying. Whether you’re a busy parent, a meal-prep pro, or just someone who hates scrubbing greasy pans, the air fryer has something for you.

In this post, I’m sharing 15 delicious air fryer recipes that go way beyond the basics. We’ll cover breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and even sweet treats—all made with minimal oil and maximum flavor. No hype, no fluff. Just real talk about what works, what doesn’t, and how to get the most out of your air fryer.

Breakfast & Brunch: Start Your Day the Crispy Way

Breakfast doesn’t have to be boring. With an air fryer, you can whip up hot, crispy, satisfying meals in under 15 minutes—without turning on the oven or dealing with a greasy stovetop. It’s perfect for those rushed mornings when you still want something homemade.

1. Air Fryer Hash Browns (Crispy on the Outside, Fluffy Inside)

Forget soggy store-bought hash browns. Shredded potatoes tossed with a little salt, pepper, and a tiny drizzle of oil turn golden and crunchy in just 12 minutes at 390°F (200°C). Pro tip: squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the shredded potatoes—this is key to crispiness. I like to use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to wring them out. Then, press them into a flat layer in the basket and flip halfway. Serve with a fried egg (yes, you can fry eggs in an air fryer!) and hot sauce.

2. Breakfast Burritos (Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly)

Prep a batch of scrambled eggs, black beans, cheese, and salsa, then wrap in tortillas. Place in the air fryer at 360°F (182°C) for 6–8 minutes. The tortilla gets lightly toasted, and the filling heats evenly. I love making 4–6 at once and freezing extras. Just reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. No soggy tortillas, no microwave mush.

3. Cinnamon Rolls (Yes, Really!)

Store-bought or homemade cinnamon rolls rise beautifully in the air fryer. Spray the basket, place rolls in a single layer (don’t crowd!), and cook at 330°F (165°C) for 8–10 minutes. They come out golden, with a slightly crisp exterior and a soft, gooey center. Drizzle with icing while warm. My kids think I’m a breakfast wizard.

4. Hard-Boiled Eggs (Peel Like a Dream)

Place eggs in the basket, set to 270°F (132°C), and cook for 15 minutes. Then, transfer to an ice bath. The result? Perfectly cooked yolks and eggs that peel in seconds. I’ve tried this method dozens of times—it’s foolproof. Great for salads, snacks, or meal prep.

5. French Toast Sticks (Kid-Approved & Crispy)

Cut bread into sticks, dip in egg mixture (eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla), and place in the air fryer at 360°F (182°C) for 8 minutes. Flip halfway. Serve with maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. My nephew calls these “air fryer magic sticks,” and honestly, he’s not wrong.

Main Dishes: Protein-Packed & Full of Flavor

When it comes to dinner, the air fryer shines. It cooks meat quickly, locks in moisture, and gives you that golden, slightly crisp crust—without deep frying. And unlike the oven, it doesn’t heat up your whole kitchen.

6. Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Place in the basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). The result? Tender, juicy chicken every time. I like to slice it for salads or shred it for tacos. Pro tip: pound the chicken to even thickness so it cooks uniformly.

7. Crispy Salmon (Ready in 10 Minutes)

Salmon fillets with skin on work best. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 8–10 minutes. The skin becomes crackly, and the flesh stays moist. I serve it over a bed of greens or with roasted veggies. It’s restaurant-quality at home.

8. Pork Chops (No More Dry Chops!)

Season bone-in pork chops with rosemary, garlic, and a little brown sugar. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 12 minutes, flipping halfway. The sugar helps caramelize the outside, while the bone keeps the inside juicy. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Pair with applesauce or mashed potatoes.

9. Turkey Meatballs (Gluten-Free & Delicious)

Mix ground turkey with breadcrumbs (use almond flour for gluten-free), egg, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Roll into 1-inch balls. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. They come out tender and slightly browned. Toss with marinara or serve over zucchini noodles. I make a big batch and freeze extras.

10. Crispy Tofu (Vegan & Packed with Protein)

Press tofu to remove water, then cut into cubes. Toss with cornstarch, soy sauce, and a touch of maple syrup. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. The outside gets crunchy, while the inside stays soft. Add to stir-fries or grain bowls. Even my meat-loving husband asks for seconds.

Vegetables & Sides: Crispy, Caramelized, and Irresistible

Vegetables in the air fryer? Yes—and they’re better than roasted. The circulating hot air gives them that charred, caramelized flavor without turning your oven on. Plus, they cook in half the time.

11. Roasted Broccoli (No Soggy Greens!)

Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes. The edges turn crispy, and the stems stay tender. I love adding a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parmesan at the end. It’s the only way my kids will eat broccoli.

12. Sweet Potato Fries (Crispy Without the Oil)

Cut sweet potatoes into thin strips, toss with a tiny bit of oil and salt. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. They come out crisp on the outside, fluffy inside. Serve with a side of garlic aioli or plain Greek yogurt. Tip: don’t overcrowd—cook in batches if needed.

13. Brussels Sprouts (Crispy, Not Slimy)

Trim and halve Brussels sprouts. Toss with oil, salt, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes. The outer leaves get crunchy, and the inside is tender. Top with crumbled bacon or toasted almonds. I used to hate Brussels sprouts—now I make them weekly.

14. Zucchini Fries (Low-Carb & Crispy)

Slice zucchini into sticks, coat in egg, then roll in almond flour or panko. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. They’re light, crunchy, and perfect with marinara. I serve these as a side or a snack. Great for keto or low-carb diets.

15. Garlic Bread (Ready in 6 Minutes)

Split a baguette, spread with garlic butter, and top with mozzarella. Wrap in foil and air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 6 minutes. The cheese melts, and the bread gets warm and slightly toasted. No need to preheat the oven. Perfect with pasta or soup.

Snacks & Appetizers: Crispy, Crunchy, and Addictive

Need a quick bite before dinner? Or a party-friendly appetizer? The air fryer has you covered. These snacks cook fast, taste amazing, and are way healthier than deep-fried versions.

Mozzarella Sticks (Guilt-Free & Gooey)

Frozen mozzarella sticks work great. No need to thaw. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 6–8 minutes. The cheese stays gooey, and the outside is perfectly crispy. Serve with marinara. I’ve served these at game nights, and no one believes they’re not deep-fried.

Chicken Wings (Crispy Skin, Juicy Meat)

Toss wings with baking powder (yes, really—it helps crisp the skin) and salt. Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway. Then, toss in buffalo sauce or BBQ. They’re crispy, juicy, and perfect for game day. No deep fryer mess.

Spring Rolls (Crispy Without the Oil)

Use frozen spring rolls or make your own. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 8–10 minutes. The wrapper turns golden and crisp. Serve with sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce. I love making a big batch for movie night.

Onion Rings (Light & Crispy)

Coat onion rings in a light batter (flour, egg, breadcrumbs). Air fry at 390°F (199°C) for 10 minutes. They’re crunchy without being greasy. Serve with ranch or ketchup. A fun, healthier alternative to drive-thru.

Popcorn (Yes, Popcorn!)

Add 3–4 tablespoons of popcorn kernels to a parchment paper liner (or use an air fryer popcorn bowl). Set to 390°F (199°C) for 5–6 minutes. Listen for the pops to slow down. Toss with butter, salt, or nutritional yeast. I make this for family movie nights—no stovetop, no mess.

Desserts: Sweet Treats in Minutes

Yes, you can bake in an air fryer. It’s perfect for small batches, quick desserts, or when you don’t want to heat up the oven. The key? Use oven-safe ramekins or silicone molds.

Chocolate Chip Cookies (Single-Serve & Delicious)

Make a small batch of cookie dough. Scoop into a greased ramekin. Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes. The edges get crispy, and the center stays soft. Top with a scoop of ice cream for a mini sundae.

Apple Chips (Healthy & Addictive)

Thinly slice apples (use a mandoline for even slices). Sprinkle with cinnamon. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. They come out crisp and slightly sweet. A great snack for kids or adults.

Brownies (Fudgy & Fast)

Use a boxed mix or make your own. Pour into a greased, oven-safe pan. Air fry at 325°F (163°C) for 15–18 minutes. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs. Let cool before slicing. I make these when I need a quick chocolate fix.

Donut Holes (Cinnamon Sugar Perfection)

Use canned biscuit dough. Cut into quarters, roll into balls. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5–6 minutes. Toss in cinnamon sugar while warm. They puff up and get golden. My kids love helping with this one.

Peach Crisp (Warm & Cozy)

Mix sliced peaches with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Top with oats, brown sugar, and butter. Place in a ramekin. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes. Serve with vanilla ice cream. A summer dessert in minutes.

Tips, Tricks & What to Avoid: Making the Most of Your Air Fryer

Now that you’ve got 15 recipes to try, let’s talk about how to get the best results. Air fryers are simple, but a few tips can make a big difference.

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

This is the #1 mistake. If you pile in too much food, it steams instead of crisps. Cook in batches if needed. Leave at least a little space between items for air to circulate. Think of it like grilling—crowding leads to soggy results.

Shake or Flip Halfway

For even cooking, give the basket a shake (for small items like fries) or flip larger items like chicken. This ensures all sides get crispy. Set a timer so you don’t forget.

Use a Light Oil Spray

Most air fryer recipes need just a light coating of oil—1–2 teaspoons is plenty. Use a spray bottle or brush it on. Too much oil can cause smoke or make food greasy.

Preheat When Possible

While not always necessary, preheating (3–5 minutes) helps food start cooking immediately. This is especially important for meats and baked goods. Check your manual—some models have a preheat setting.

Clean It After Every Use

Food residue can burn and cause smoke. Wash the basket and tray with warm, soapy water. For stuck-on bits, soak in hot water first. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can damage non-stick surfaces.

What NOT to Cook

• Wet batters: Like tempura—they’ll drip and make a mess.
• Large whole chickens: They won’t cook evenly. Use cut-up pieces instead.
• Loose leafy greens: They’ll fly around and burn. Use sturdy veggies like broccoli or carrots.
• Cheese by itself: It can melt and drip, causing smoke.

Food Type	Temp (°F)	Time (Minutes)	Notes
Chicken Breast	375	12–15	Flip halfway, use thermometer
Salmon	400	8–10	Skin-on for crispiness
Broccoli	380	10–12	Toss with oil, don’t overcrowd
Sweet Potato Fries	400	12–15	Shake basket halfway
Cinnamon Rolls	330	8–10	Use oven-safe dish
Hard-Boiled Eggs	270	15	Ice bath after cooking

Your air fryer is more than a “fryer.” It’s a grill, a toaster, a mini oven, and a dehydrator—all in one. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, it saves time, cuts down on oil, and delivers delicious results. The recipes above? They’re just the beginning. Once you get comfortable, you’ll start experimenting—marinating chicken, stuffing mushrooms, even baking small cakes.

Remember, every air fryer is a little different. Some run hot, some take longer. Don’t be afraid to adjust time or temperature. And if something doesn’t turn out perfect the first time? That’s okay. I’ve burned a batch of fries and undercooked a chicken breast. But each time, I learned something new.

So, what can you cook with air fryer? Pretty much anything—breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and desserts. It’s not magic, but it sure feels like it. Grab your air fryer, pick a recipe from this list, and give it a try. You might just find yourself wondering how you ever cooked without it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you cook with an air fryer besides fries?

You can make everything from crispy chicken wings and mozzarella sticks to roasted vegetables and even desserts like churros. The air fryer’s versatility makes it perfect for achieving a golden, crunchy texture without excess oil.

Can you cook frozen foods in an air fryer?

Absolutely! The air fryer is ideal for cooking frozen foods like nuggets, fish sticks, and tater tots with little to no preheating. Just adjust cooking time slightly, and enjoy crispy results in minutes.

What are some healthy recipes you can make with an air fryer?

Try air-fried salmon, roasted Brussels sprouts, or skinless chicken tenders for low-oil, nutrient-packed meals. The air fryer reduces fat content by up to 75% compared to traditional frying while keeping food juicy.

Can you bake or reheat leftovers in an air fryer?

Yes! The air fryer works great for reheating pizza, pastries, or casseroles while keeping them crispy. It’s also perfect for baking small batches of cookies, brownies, or even a mini quiche.

What can you cook with air fryer if you’re on a diet?

Opt for lean proteins like air-fried shrimp, tofu, or turkey meatballs, paired with veggie “fries” or cauliflower steaks. The air fryer’s rapid circulation cooks food evenly with minimal oil, making it diet-friendly.

Can you cook raw meat in an air fryer?

Definitely! The air fryer cooks raw chicken, pork chops, or steak to juicy perfection with a crispy exterior. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches safe levels, and shake the basket halfway for even browning.