What Can You Fry in an Air Fryer Discover 20 Delicious Ideas

You can fry almost anything in an air fryer, from crispy french fries and juicy chicken wings to vegetables, seafood, and even desserts—all with little to no oil. This versatile appliance delivers golden, crunchy results using rapid hot air circulation, making it perfect for healthier versions of fried favorites and unexpected treats like donuts, mozzarella sticks, and roasted nuts.

Key Takeaways

• Versatile cooking: Air fryers handle meats, veggies, snacks, and even desserts with ease.
• Healthier frying: Achieve crispy results with little to no oil required.
• Reheat leftovers: Revive pizza, fries, and more without sogginess.
• Batch prep: Cook frozen foods like nuggets and tater tots quickly and evenly.
• Experiment freely: Try baking, roasting, or dehydrating beyond traditional frying.
• Easy cleanup: Most baskets are non-stick and dishwasher-safe for convenience.

What Can You Fry in an Air Fryer Discover 20 Delicious Ideas

The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying without sacrificing flavor or crispiness. This innovative kitchen appliance uses rapid air circulation to cook food, creating a golden, crispy exterior with minimal oil—often just a fraction of what’s needed for deep frying. Whether you’re a busy parent, a health-conscious eater, or someone who simply loves crunchy snacks, the air fryer is a game-changer. But what exactly can you fry in an air fryer? The answer is: almost everything.

From classic fried favorites to creative, unexpected dishes, the air fryer is a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of ingredients. In this guide, we’ll explore 20 delicious ideas that showcase the air fryer’s potential. Whether you’re craving crispy chicken wings, golden fries, or even desserts, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the world of air frying and discover how this appliance can transform your meals.

1. Classic Fried Favorites: Air-Fried Versions

One of the most popular uses for an air fryer is recreating beloved fried foods with a fraction of the oil. These classics are crowd-pleasers and perfect for satisfying cravings without the guilt. Here are some staples you can easily make in your air fryer.

Air-Fried French Fries

Nothing beats the crispiness of homemade fries. To make them in an air fryer:

• Cut potatoes into 1/4-inch sticks and soak in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
• Toss with 1-2 teaspoons of oil, salt, and pepper.
• Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Pro tip: Sprinkle with paprika or garlic powder after cooking for extra flavor.

Crispy Chicken Wings

Forget the deep fryer—air-fried wings are just as crispy and much easier to make. Here’s how:

• Pat chicken wings dry and toss with a light coating of oil and your favorite seasoning.
• Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 20 minutes, then increase to 400°F (204°C) for 5-7 minutes to crisp up.
• Toss in buffalo sauce, honey garlic, or BBQ sauce after cooking.

Bonus: Try dry-brining wings with salt and spices overnight for even more flavor.

Onion Rings and Mozzarella Sticks

These party favorites are simple to make in an air fryer:

• Dip onion rings or mozzarella sticks in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
• Lightly spray with oil and air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 8-10 minutes.

Tip: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.

2. Seafood: From Shrimp to Fish Fillets

Seafood cooks quickly in an air fryer, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or appetizers. The high heat ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the interior tender and juicy.

Air-Fried Shrimp

Perfect for tacos, salads, or as a standalone snack:

• Toss shrimp with oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
• Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway.

Variation: Bread shrimp with panko for a “crispy fried” texture without the oil.

Fish Fillets (Cod, Salmon, or Tilapia)

Lightly coat fillets in seasoned flour or breadcrumbs and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. For a healthier option, skip the breading and use a marinade of lemon juice, herbs, and a touch of oil.

• Pro tip: Add a slice of lemon on top for a fresh, zesty flavor.

Calamari Rings

Skip the deep fryer and make tender, crispy calamari in minutes:

• Dip rings in buttermilk, then coat with seasoned flour.
• Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 8-10 minutes.

Serve with marinara sauce or aioli for dipping.

3. Vegetables: Crispy and Nutritious

Vegetables shine in an air fryer, becoming crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This method is a great way to encourage kids (and adults) to eat more veggies.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Cut sprouts in half, toss with oil, salt, and pepper, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes. For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze or sprinkle with Parmesan after cooking.

Zucchini Fries

A lighter alternative to potato fries:

• Slice zucchini into sticks and coat with breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan.
• Air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Serve with ranch or marinara sauce.

Sweet Potato Fries

Cut sweet potatoes into wedges, toss with oil and cinnamon (or chili powder for a spicy kick), and air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 15-18 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Pickles and Green Beans

For a fun twist, try breaded pickle slices or green beans:

• Dip in flour, egg, and seasoned breadcrumbs.
• Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.

These are perfect for game-day snacks.

4. Snacks and Appetizers: Party-Ready Treats

Air fryers are ideal for making quick, crowd-pleasing snacks. Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a late-night bite, these ideas are sure to impress.

Spring Rolls and Egg Rolls

Store-bought or homemade, air-fried spring rolls are crispy and delicious. Lightly spray with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.

Jalapeño Poppers

Halve jalapeños, fill with cream cheese and cheddar, wrap in bacon or breadcrumbs, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Fill mushroom caps with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, and herbs. Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Tater Tots and Hash Browns

No need to preheat the oven—just place frozen tots or hash browns in the air fryer at 400°F (204°C) for 10-12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway for even browning.

Chicken Tenders and Nuggets

Coat chicken strips or nuggets in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. Serve with ketchup, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.

5. Desserts: Sweet and Surprising Treats

Yes, you can even make desserts in an air fryer! These sweet treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with less oil.

Apple Chips

Thinly slice apples, toss with cinnamon, and air fry at 350°F (177°C) for 10-12 minutes. Flip halfway for even crispiness.

Churros

Pipe churro batter into the air fryer basket, lightly spray with oil, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes. Roll in cinnamon sugar while warm.

Donuts and Cinnamon Rolls

Store-bought or homemade dough can be air-fried at 350°F (177°C) for 6-8 minutes. Glaze with powdered sugar or cream cheese frosting.

Banana Fritters

Mash ripe bananas, mix with flour, egg, and cinnamon, and form into patties. Lightly coat in breadcrumbs and air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 8-10 minutes.

Brownies and Mug Cakes

Pour brownie batter into a greased air fryer-safe dish and cook at 325°F (163°C) for 15-20 minutes. For mug cakes, cook at 320°F (160°C) for 8-10 minutes.

6. Leftovers and Reheating: The Air Fryer Advantage

One of the best uses for an air fryer is reheating leftovers. Unlike a microwave, which can make food soggy, the air fryer restores crispiness to fried foods, pizza, and more.

Reheating Fried Chicken

Place chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (177°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore its crispy skin.

Pizza Slices

Reheat pizza at 360°F (182°C) for 3-5 minutes for a crispy crust and melty cheese.

Fried Rice and Noodles

Stir-fry leftovers in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, tossing occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frozen Foods

From mozzarella sticks to chicken patties, air frying frozen foods is quick and efficient. No need to thaw—just add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time.

Data Table: Reheating Times for Common Leftovers

Food Item	Temperature	Time (Minutes)	Tips
Fried Chicken	350°F (177°C)	5-7	Flip halfway
Pizza	360°F (182°C)	3-5	Cover with foil to prevent cheese from burning
French Fries	380°F (193°C)	4-6	Shake basket halfway
Chicken Nuggets	400°F (204°C)	3-5	Lightly spray with oil
Fried Rice	375°F (190°C)	5-7	Stir occasionally

The air fryer is more than just a trendy gadget—it’s a versatile tool that can handle everything from main dishes to desserts. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these 20 delicious ideas prove that the air fryer is a must-have in any kitchen. So, dust off your air fryer, experiment with these recipes, and discover the joy of healthier, crispy, and flavorful cooking. Happy frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you fry in an air fryer besides frozen foods?

You can air fry fresh vegetables, chicken breasts, salmon fillets, and even homemade mozzarella sticks. The air fryer’s circulating heat crisps food beautifully without excess oil, making it ideal for healthier versions of traditionally fried dishes.

Can you cook raw meat in an air fryer?

Yes, raw meats like chicken wings, pork chops, and hamburgers cook evenly in an air fryer. Just season and place them in the basket—no preheating or oil required for juicy, crispy results.

What can you fry in an air fryer to replace deep-fried snacks?

Air fryers are perfect for making crispy onion rings, jalapeño poppers, and even doughnuts with a fraction of the oil. You’ll get the same crunchy texture as deep frying but with fewer calories and less mess.

Can I reheat leftovers in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Reheat pizza, fried chicken, or french fries to restore their crispiness. The air fryer’s rapid heat circulation prevents sogginess better than microwaves.

Are air fryers good for cooking vegetables?

Yes, air fryers excel at roasting or “frying” vegetables like Brussels sprouts, sweet potato fries, and zucchini slices. A light spray of oil enhances crispness while keeping calories low.

What can you fry in an air fryer for dessert?

From churros to apple turnovers and even donut holes, the air fryer bakes desserts with a golden, crispy finish. Try refrigerated dough or homemade recipes for easy, healthier treats.