What Can You Put in an Air Fryer Discover Top Foods to Try

You can cook almost anything in an air fryer—from crispy fries and juicy chicken wings to roasted vegetables and even baked desserts—making it one of the most versatile kitchen appliances. Its rapid air circulation delivers crispy, golden results with little to no oil, perfect for reheating leftovers, toasting nuts, or cooking frozen foods quickly and evenly.

Key Takeaways

• Air fryers cook almost anything: From meats to veggies, even baked goods.
• Use minimal oil: Achieve crispy textures with just a light spray.
• Frozen foods work great: No thawing needed—perfect for quick meals.
• Reheat leftovers perfectly: Revive pizza, fries, and more without sogginess.
• Experiment with baking: Try cookies, muffins, and small cakes effortlessly.
• Avoid liquid batters: They drip and won’t crisp properly in the basket.
• Clean-up is easy: Non-stick baskets simplify post-cooking maintenance.

What Can You Put in an Air Fryer? Discover Top Foods to Try

Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying without sacrificing flavor or texture. These countertop appliances use rapid air circulation to cook food, creating a crispy outer layer with minimal oil. But what can you put in an air fryer? The answer might surprise you. From vegetables to meats, desserts to frozen foods, the possibilities are nearly endless. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer enthusiast or just starting out, understanding what foods work best in this versatile appliance can elevate your meals and save time in the kitchen.

One of the biggest misconceptions about air fryers is that they’re limited to frozen snacks or reheating leftovers. In reality, air fryers can handle a wide variety of fresh ingredients, making them a go-to tool for busy families, health-conscious eaters, and culinary experimenters alike. With the right techniques, you can achieve restaurant-quality results at home—think golden fries, juicy chicken, perfectly roasted vegetables, and even decadent desserts. This guide dives into the top foods to try in your air fryer, offering practical tips, cooking times, and flavor-boosting tricks to help you get the most out of your appliance.

1. Vegetables: Crispy, Nutritious, and Flavorful

Vegetables are one of the best foods to cook in an air fryer. The high heat and circulating air create a crispy exterior while preserving nutrients and natural flavors. Unlike boiling or steaming, air frying adds texture and depth, making even the most reluctant vegetable eater take notice.

Best Vegetables for Air Frying

Not all vegetables are created equal when it comes to air frying. Some thrive in the dry, hot environment, while others may steam instead of crisp. Here are the top performers:

• Broccoli: Cut into small florets, toss with olive oil and garlic powder, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. The result? Crispy edges and tender centers.
• Brussels Sprouts: Halve or quarter them, season with salt, pepper, and a dash of balsamic vinegar, and cook at 390°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes. They caramelize beautifully.
• Sweet Potatoes: Cut into wedges or cubes, brush with oil, and air fry at 400°F (205°C) for 18–22 minutes. Flip halfway for even browning.
• Zucchini and Yellow Squash: Slice into rounds or sticks, coat lightly in oil, and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. Perfect as a side or in salads.
• Asparagus: Toss with olive oil, lemon zest, and Parmesan, then air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes. The spears stay tender inside but crispy outside.

Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Vegetables

To avoid soggy results and ensure even cooking, follow these guidelines:

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Leave space between pieces so air can circulate. Cook in batches if needed.
• Use a light oil coating: A thin layer of olive, avocado, or sesame oil helps with browning and prevents sticking.
• Season after cooking: Adding salt or acidic ingredients (like lemon juice) too early can draw out moisture. Sprinkle after cooking for maximum crispiness.
• Shake or flip halfway: This ensures even browning, especially for dense vegetables like potatoes or carrots.

For an extra flavor boost, try tossing cooked vegetables with a drizzle of honey, soy sauce, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast. You can also experiment with spice blends like cajun, za’atar, or smoked paprika.

2. Meats and Proteins: Juicy, Crispy, and Flavorful

Air fryers are excellent for cooking meats, offering a crispy exterior and juicy interior without the need for deep frying. From chicken wings to salmon fillets, the appliance handles proteins with ease—often in less time than conventional methods.

Chicken: Wings, Breasts, and Thighs

Chicken is a favorite in air fryers due to its versatility and quick cook time. Here’s how to nail it:

• Chicken Wings: Toss with your favorite sauce (buffalo, honey garlic, or teriyaki) and air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once. For extra crispiness, pat dry before cooking.
• Chicken Breasts: Season with herbs, garlic, and olive oil, then cook at 360°F (182°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Chicken Thighs: These stay juicy due to their fat content. Marinate in yogurt and spices for 30 minutes, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes.

Fish and Seafood

Delicate proteins like salmon, cod, and shrimp benefit from the air fryer’s precise heat control:

• Salmon Fillets: Brush with olive oil, lemon juice, and dill. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. The skin crisps beautifully.
• Cod or Tilapia: Coat in panko breadcrumbs and parmesan, then cook at 380°F (193°C) for 12–14 minutes. No oil needed if using a non-stick basket.
• Shrimp: Toss with olive oil, garlic, and paprika. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes. Perfect for tacos or salads.

Beef and Pork

For heartier proteins, the air fryer delivers impressive results:

• Steak: Season with salt and pepper, then air fry at 400°F (205°C) for 8–10 minutes for medium-rare. Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Ground Beef (for tacos or burgers): Form into patties or crumble and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
• Pork Chops: Marinate in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, then air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 12–14 minutes. Flip halfway.

Pro Tips for Cooking Meats

• Pat proteins dry: Moisture inhibits crisping. Always blot chicken, fish, or pork before seasoning.
• Use a meat thermometer: Ensures safe cooking and prevents overcooking, especially for lean cuts.
• Marinate for flavor: A 30-minute marinade in acidic ingredients (lemon, vinegar, yogurt) tenderizes and adds depth.
• Add a crust: Breadcrumbs, panko, or crushed nuts create a crunchy exterior. Spray with oil for extra browning.

3. Frozen Foods: Quick, Easy, and Crispy

Frozen foods are a staple for many air fryer users, and for good reason. The appliance heats them evenly and quickly, often with better results than a microwave or oven. Whether you’re craving comfort food or need a last-minute meal, frozen items deliver convenience without sacrificing quality.

Best Frozen Foods for Air Frying

• Frozen Fries: Skip the oil! Air fry at 400°F (205°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway. Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside.
• Chicken Nuggets/Tenders: Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes. No preheating needed.
• Fish Sticks: Arrange in a single layer and cook at 390°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes. Serve with tartar sauce or lemon.
• Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls: Spray lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. Crispy and golden.
• Frozen Pizza (personal size): Place directly in the basket and cook at 370°F (188°C) for 8–10 minutes. Top with extra cheese if desired.

Tips for Perfect Frozen Foods

• No preheating required: Unlike ovens, most air fryers can cook frozen foods directly from the freezer.
• Shake or flip halfway: Prevents uneven cooking and ensures crispy edges.
• Use parchment liners: Prevents sticking, especially for items like mozzarella sticks or dumplings.
• Adjust cook time: Larger batches may need an extra 2–3 minutes. Check for golden color and bubbling.

Beyond the Basics: Creative Frozen Ideas

Think outside the box with these unexpected frozen treats:

• Frozen Meatballs: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. Serve in pasta or on a sub.
• Frozen Dumplings: Spray with oil and cook at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes. Dip in soy sauce or chili oil.
• Frozen Veggie Burgers: Cook at 370°F (188°C) for 10–12 minutes. Serve on a bun with avocado.

4. Baked Goods and Desserts: Sweet Treats in Minutes

Yes, you can bake in an air fryer! The appliance’s compact size and rapid heat make it ideal for small batches of cookies, brownies, and even cakes. Plus, desserts cook faster than in a traditional oven, making them perfect for late-night cravings.

Easy Air Fryer Desserts

• Chocolate Chip Cookies: Scoop dough onto parchment paper, space evenly, and air fry at 330°F (165°C) for 7–9 minutes. The edges crisp while the center stays chewy.
• Brownies: Use a silicone mold or small oven-safe dish. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 12–15 minutes. Check for a gooey center.
• Apple Turnovers: Fill store-bought puff pastry with apples and cinnamon, seal, and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. Brush with egg wash for shine.
• Donuts: Make doughnuts from scratch or use canned biscuit dough. Air fry at 340°F (171°C) for 5–6 minutes. Glaze while warm.
• Cinnamon Rolls: Use frozen or homemade. Cook at 330°F (165°C) for 10–12 minutes. Frost after cooling.

Baking Tips for Air Fryers

• Use oven-safe containers: Silicone molds, ramekins, or small metal pans work best. Avoid plastic.
• Reduce temperature by 25°F: Air fryers cook faster than ovens. Start low and adjust as needed.
• Check early: Baked goods can go from golden to burnt quickly. Set a timer for 5 minutes less than the recipe suggests.
• Don’t overfill: Leave space for rising. Cookies and cakes need room to expand.

Creative Dessert Ideas

• Banana “Fries”: Slice bananas, coat in cinnamon sugar, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes. Serve with yogurt.
• Churros: Pipe dough into the basket and cook at 370°F (188°C) for 6–8 minutes. Roll in cinnamon sugar.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Use a muffin tin and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 12–15 minutes. Top with fruit or chocolate.

5. Leftovers and Reheating: Crispy Second Acts

One of the air fryer’s unsung talents is reheating leftovers. Unlike microwaves, which can make food soggy, the air fryer restores crispiness to fried foods, pizza, and more—making second-day meals taste fresh.

Best Foods to Reheat

• Fried Chicken: Air fry at 350°F (177°C) for 5–7 minutes. Crispy skin, juicy meat.
• Pizza: Place slices in the basket and cook at 325°F (163°C) for 3–4 minutes. Melty cheese, crispy crust.
• French Fries: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. Shake halfway.
• Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls: Cook at 370°F (188°C) for 4–5 minutes. No soggy wrappers.
• Roasted Vegetables: Toss with a little oil and reheat at 350°F (177°C) for 4–6 minutes.

Reheating Tips

• Use a single layer: Overcrowding leads to steaming. Cook in batches if needed.
• Spritz with water or oil: Adds moisture to dry items like chicken or fries.
• Start low and slow: High heat can burn edges before the center heats. Begin at 325°F (163°C) and increase if needed.
• Check frequently: Leftovers heat quickly. Set a timer for 2 minutes and monitor.

Creative Leftover Combos

• Breakfast Hash: Reheat leftover roasted potatoes, bacon, and veggies at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes. Top with a fried egg.
• Chicken Tacos: Reheat shredded chicken at 350°F (177°C) for 5 minutes. Warm tortillas in the air fryer for 1 minute.

6. What NOT to Put in an Air Fryer: Safety and Best Practices

While the air fryer is incredibly versatile, some items are better suited for other cooking methods. Knowing what to avoid prevents damage to your appliance and ensures safety.

Foods to Avoid

• Wet batters: Items like tempura or beer-battered fish will drip and create smoke.
• Large whole chickens: The size can block airflow. Use cut-up pieces instead.
• Leafy greens (raw): Kale or spinach can fly around and burn. Roast in a bowl instead.
• Cheese (alone): Melts and drips, creating a mess. Melt cheese on pizza or sandwiches, not by itself.
• Water-based soups or stews: The liquid will steam, not fry.

Appliance Safety Tips

• Use oven-safe cookware: Avoid plastic, paper, or non-air-fryer-safe containers.
• Don’t block vents: Ensure the air fryer has space on all sides for ventilation.
• Clean regularly: Grease buildup can smoke or cause odors. Wash the basket and tray after each use.
• Preheat when needed: For meats or baked goods, preheating ensures even cooking.

Data Table: Quick Reference Guide

Food Type	Temp (°F)	Time (min)	Tips
Broccoli	375	10–12	Shake halfway, season after
Chicken Wings	380	20–25	Pat dry, flip once
Frozen Fries	400	12–15	Shake halfway, no oil
Chocolate Chip Cookies	330	7–9	Space evenly, use parchment
Reheat Pizza	325	3–4	Single layer, check early

The air fryer is a culinary Swiss Army knife, capable of transforming everything from vegetables to desserts into crispy, flavorful masterpieces. By understanding what can you put in an air fryer—and how to cook it properly—you unlock a world of quick, healthy, and delicious possibilities. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a family, or satisfying a late-night craving, this appliance delivers consistent results with minimal effort. So fire up your air fryer and start experimenting—your taste buds will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

What foods can you cook in an air fryer?

You can cook a wide variety of foods in an air fryer, including frozen snacks, meats, vegetables, and even baked goods. It’s perfect for achieving crispy textures without excess oil, making it ideal for fries, chicken wings, and roasted veggies.

Can you put raw meat in an air fryer?

Yes, raw meats like chicken breasts, pork chops, and ground beef cook beautifully in an air fryer. The circulating hot air ensures even browning and juicy results with minimal preheating.

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

Beyond frozen items, fresh foods like salmon, Brussels sprouts, and even eggs work well in an air fryer. It’s also great for reheating leftovers, giving them a fresh-out-of-the-oven crispness.

Can you use aluminum foil or parchment in an air fryer?

Yes, you can line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup, but ensure it doesn’t block airflow. Avoid covering the entire bottom to maintain proper circulation.

What are the best snacks to make in an air fryer?

Top air fryer snacks include mozzarella sticks, sweet potato fries, and even homemade kale chips. The air fryer delivers crunchy results with less oil than traditional frying.

Can you bake desserts in an air fryer?

Absolutely! You can bake cookies, brownies, or even small cakes in an air fryer. Just adjust cooking times, as air fryers typically work faster than conventional ovens.