What Can You Use Air Fryer for 10 Surprising Ways to Cook Smarter

An air fryer is a versatile kitchen powerhouse that goes far beyond crispy fries—it can bake, roast, reheat, and even dehydrate with little to no oil. From perfectly cooked salmon and fluffy baked potatoes to guilt-free donuts and crispy tofu, it delivers fast, even results while cutting calories and cleanup time. Discover 10 surprising ways to cook smarter and transform everyday ingredients into delicious, healthier meals.

Key Takeaways

• Reheat leftovers perfectly: Crisp up pizza and fries without sogginess.
• Cook frozen foods faster: Skip thawing; air fry from frozen in minutes.
• Bake small desserts effortlessly: Make cookies, brownies, or mug cakes easily.
• Dehydrate fruits and veggies: Create healthy snacks with low, slow heat.
• Roast veggies to perfection: Achieve caramelized edges with minimal oil.
• Make crunchy toppings quickly: Toast nuts, breadcrumbs, or croutons in seconds.

What Can You Use Air Fryer for? 10 Surprising Ways to Cook Smarter

Remember that time you burned your fingers trying to pull a crispy chicken wing out of a deep fryer, only to find it was still raw inside? Or maybe you’ve stared at your oven, waiting for it to preheat, while your stomach growled like a caged lion? If you’ve ever wished for a kitchen gadget that could deliver that golden, crunchy texture without the oil, mess, or long wait, your prayers might have been answered—meet the air fryer.

Air fryers have taken kitchens by storm, and for good reason. They’re not just for reheating frozen mozzarella sticks (though they do that *really* well). These compact countertop wonders use rapid hot air circulation to mimic deep frying, giving you that satisfying crunch with up to 80% less oil. But what can you use an air fryer for beyond the usual suspects? Turns out, the answer is: *almost everything*. From breakfast to dessert, leftovers to gourmet meals, the air fryer is a multitasking marvel that can save time, cut calories, and even spark a little kitchen creativity. Let’s dive into 10 surprising ways to use your air fryer and cook smarter—without turning your kitchen into a grease trap.

1. Crispy, Oil-Fried-Like Meals Without the Guilt

Let’s start with the obvious but essential: air fryers excel at making foods crispy, golden, and delicious—without drowning them in oil. This isn’t just a healthier option; it’s a game-changer for texture lovers who want that satisfying crunch without the greasy aftermath.

Classic Favorites: Wings, Fries, and Tenders

Chicken wings? Yes. French fries? Absolutely. Breaded chicken tenders? You bet. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, creating a Maillard reaction (that’s the science behind browning and crisping) with minimal oil. For example, toss frozen fries with just a teaspoon of oil or a spritz of cooking spray, and in 15 minutes, you’ve got fries that rival your favorite fast-food joint—only with less fat and no guilt.

Pro tip: Shake or flip your food halfway through cooking. This ensures even browning and prevents soggy spots. For wings, pat them dry before seasoning to remove excess moisture—this helps the skin crisp up beautifully.

Reheating Leftovers Like a Pro

Ever tried reheating leftover pizza in the microwave? It turns into a soggy, rubbery mess. But in the air fryer? Magic. A few minutes at 350°F, and your pizza crust is crisp again, the cheese melts just right, and the toppings stay intact. The same goes for fried chicken, onion rings, and even samosas.

One friend told me she used her air fryer to reheat leftover fried rice from takeout. She added a splash of water to a paper towel, placed it over the rice, and cooked it for 3 minutes. The result? Fluffy, hot rice with a slight crust on the bottom—like a mini stir-fry. Genius.

Homemade “Fried” Foods

You can make your own “fried” chicken at home using a light breading (flour, panko, or crushed cornflakes) and just a drizzle of oil. The air fryer crisps the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Try this: coat chicken breasts in a mix of flour, paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cornstarch, then air fry at 375°F for 18–20 minutes. Flip halfway. No deep fryer, no mess, just crispy, juicy perfection.

2. Roasting Vegetables and Baking Without an Oven

Ovens take forever to preheat. Microwaves steam food into submission. But the air fryer? It’s fast, efficient, and perfect for roasting or baking small batches of food. And the best part? It doesn’t heat up your whole kitchen in the summer.

Roasted Veggies That Don’t Sog Out

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a caramelized edge. But in a regular oven, it can take 30–40 minutes. In an air fryer? 12–15 minutes, tops. Try tossing broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Air fry at 375°F for 12 minutes, shaking halfway. The result? Crispy edges, tender centers, and a side dish that even veggie-haters might enjoy.

One reader shared that she air fries sweet potato cubes with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup. “It’s like dessert,” she said. “But it’s healthy!”

Baking Mini Desserts and Breads

Yes, you can bake in an air fryer! It’s ideal for small batches of cookies, brownies, or even mini loaves of banana bread. The hot air circulates evenly, so your treats cook uniformly. Use oven-safe ramekins, silicone molds, or a small metal pan that fits in your basket.

Try this: mix up a batch of chocolate chip cookie dough, press it into a greased ramekin, and air fry at 320°F for 10–12 minutes. You’ll get a soft, gooey center with a slightly crisp top—perfect for one or two people. No need to heat up the oven for a single cookie.

Toasting Nuts and Seeds

Toasting nuts in a pan on the stove can be tricky—they burn easily. But in the air fryer, you just toss them in, set the timer for 3–5 minutes, and walk away. They come out evenly golden and fragrant. Same goes for seeds like pumpkin or sunflower. Great for salads, trail mix, or just snacking.

3. Cooking Proteins to Perfection

Proteins can be tricky. Overcook them, and they’re dry. Undercook them, and you’re calling your doctor. But the air fryer’s consistent heat and rapid circulation make it a protein powerhouse—especially for chicken, fish, and even tofu.

Juicy Chicken Breasts Without the Guesswork

Chicken breasts are notorious for drying out. But in the air fryer, they cook evenly and stay juicy. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. Place it in the basket, and cook at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Pro tip: Brining the chicken for 30 minutes in saltwater (1/4 cup salt to 4 cups water) before cooking adds moisture and flavor. No brine? Try a dry rub with a bit of sugar—it helps with browning.

Fish Fillets That Flake Like Butter

Delicate fish like salmon, cod, or tilapia can overcook in a pan or oven. But in the air fryer, they cook quickly and evenly. Season your fillet, place it skin-side down (if it has skin), and cook at 375°F for 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness.

One trick: place a lemon slice or two on top of the fish while it cooks. The steam from the lemon keeps the fish moist and adds a bright, citrusy note. No flipping required.

Plant-Based Proteins: Tofu and Beyond

Air fryers are a tofu lover’s dream. Press your tofu to remove excess water, then cut it into cubes. Toss with a little oil, soy sauce, and cornstarch (for crispiness), and air fry at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway. The result? Crispy, golden tofu that’s perfect for stir-fries, grain bowls, or salads.

You can even air fry tempeh, seitan, or store-bought veggie burgers. Just follow the same principles: a light coating of oil, even spacing in the basket, and a shake or flip halfway through.

4. Reheating, Reviving, and Reimagining Leftovers

Let’s face it: leftovers are the unsung heroes of meal prep. But reheating them often ruins the texture. The air fryer changes that. It revives foods with a crisp, fresh-out-of-the-oven feel—without the microwave’s soggy curse.

Reheating Pizza, Fried Chicken, and More

As mentioned earlier, pizza reheats beautifully in the air fryer. But so does fried chicken, samosas, egg rolls, and even falafel. Place them in the basket, set the temp to 350°F, and cook for 3–5 minutes. The outside crisps up, and the inside heats through without drying out.

One mom told me she air fries leftover pancakes for her kids. “They think it’s magic,” she said. “They come out warm and fluffy, with a slight crust.”

Reviving Stale Bread and Pastries

Got a stale baguette or a dry muffin? The air fryer can bring it back to life. Wrap the bread in a damp paper towel and air fry at 300°F for 2–3 minutes. For pastries, just place them in the basket and cook at 320°F for 2–3 minutes. They’ll be warm, slightly crispy, and ready to eat.

Reimagining Leftover Meals

Got leftover roasted veggies? Toss them with a little oil and air fry for a few minutes to crisp them up. Add them to a salad, grain bowl, or omelet. Leftover rice? Air fry it with a splash of water and some soy sauce for a quick fried rice side. The air fryer turns leftovers into *new* meals with minimal effort.

5. Cooking Breakfast and Snacks with Ease

Breakfast doesn’t have to be toast and coffee. And snacks don’t have to be chips and cookies. The air fryer makes it easy to cook quick, satisfying morning and midday bites—without turning on the stove or oven.

Perfectly Crispy Bacon (Yes, Really)

Cooking bacon in a pan can splatter grease everywhere. But in the air fryer? It’s clean, quick, and perfectly crispy. Lay the bacon strips in a single layer in the basket. No oil needed. Cook at 375°F for 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness. The fat renders out, and the bacon crisps up beautifully.

Pro tip: Place a paper towel in the drip tray to catch the grease. And if you’re making a lot, cook in batches—don’t overcrowd the basket.

Breakfast Potatoes and Hash Browns

Cut potatoes into cubes, toss with oil, salt, and pepper, and air fry at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway. You’ll get crispy, golden potatoes in half the time of an oven. For frozen hash browns, just place them in the basket and cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. No thawing needed.

Snacks and Appetizers in Minutes

Want a quick snack? Air fry mozzarella sticks, jalapeño poppers, or even homemade kale chips. For kale chips, tear the leaves into pieces, toss with a little oil and salt, and air fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes. They’ll be crispy, not burnt. For sweet snacks, try air frying apple slices with a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar. They come out warm, slightly caramelized, and totally addictive.

6. Creative Uses: From Dehydrating to Melting Cheese

The air fryer isn’t just for cooking—it can also help with food prep, preservation, and even fun kitchen experiments. Here are a few creative uses you might not have thought of.

Dehydrating Fruits and Herbs

Want to make your own fruit leather or dried herbs? The air fryer can help. Slice apples, bananas, or strawberries thinly, place them in the basket, and cook at the lowest setting (usually 170°F) for 1–2 hours, checking frequently. For herbs, spread them out and cook at 170°F for 30–60 minutes. They’ll dry evenly and retain flavor.

Melting Cheese for Nachos or Quesadillas

Got a craving for nachos? Place tortilla chips in an oven-safe dish, top with cheese and toppings, and air fry at 350°F for 3–5 minutes. The cheese melts perfectly, and the chips stay crisp. For quesadillas, place them in the basket and cook at 375°F for 4–5 minutes per side. The cheese oozes, and the tortilla gets golden and crunchy.

Warming Tortillas and Flatbreads

Need warm tortillas for tacos? Just place them in the air fryer basket (don’t overlap) and cook at 300°F for 1–2 minutes. They’ll be warm, pliable, and ready to fill. Same goes for naan or pita bread.

Data Table: Air Fryer Cooking Times for Common Foods

Food	Temperature (°F)	Time (Minutes)	Notes
Chicken Wings	375	20–25	Flip halfway; pat dry first
Frozen Fries	400	12–15	Shake halfway
Salmon Fillet	375	8–12	Skin-side down; check temp
Roasted Veggies	375	12–15	Toss with oil and seasoning
Bacon	375	8–12	No oil; use drip tray
Chicken Breast	375	15–20	Flip halfway; brine first
Reheated Pizza	350	3–5	Single layer; no overlapping
Apple Slices (snack)	350	8–10	Toss with cinnamon/sugar

So, what can you use an air fryer for? The answer is: *a lot*. From crispy proteins to roasted veggies, reheated leftovers to creative snacks, the air fryer is a versatile, efficient, and surprisingly fun kitchen tool. It’s not just about cutting oil or saving time—it’s about making cooking easier, more enjoyable, and more flexible.

Sure, it’s not perfect. The basket is small, so it’s not ideal for big families or large batches. And some foods (like soups or stews) don’t work. But for most everyday cooking tasks, the air fryer shines. It’s like having a mini convection oven on your countertop—one that delivers crispy, delicious results with minimal effort.

The next time you’re staring at a fridge full of leftovers or craving a crunchy snack, don’t reach for the microwave or the deep fryer. Grab your air fryer. Try one of these 10 surprising uses. You might just find yourself wondering how you ever cooked without it. After all, cooking smarter isn’t about fancy gadgets or complicated recipes. It’s about using what you have—and making it work better. And the air fryer? It’s working *very* well.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you use an air fryer for beyond frying?

An air fryer isn’t just for frying—it’s great for baking, roasting, grilling, and even reheating leftovers. You can make crispy vegetables, fluffy muffins, or tender meats with minimal oil. Its versatility makes it a kitchen essential.

Can you use an air fryer to cook frozen foods?

Yes! Air fryers excel at cooking frozen foods like fries, nuggets, or fish sticks with a crispy texture. No thawing needed—just adjust cooking time and enjoy evenly heated results.

What can you use an air fryer for in baking?

From cookies to small cakes, air fryers bake desserts quickly and evenly. The compact space ensures faster heat circulation, cutting baking time by 20-30% compared to ovens.

Is it safe to use an air fryer for reheating leftovers?

Absolutely! Air fryers revive soggy pizza, fries, or fried chicken with a crispy finish. Avoid overheating by using short 2-3 minute bursts at 350°F (175°C).

Can you use an air fryer for dehydrating fruits or herbs?

Yes, many air fryers have a dehydrate function or low-temperature settings perfect for drying fruits, herbs, or jerky. It’s a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks.

What can you use an air fryer for in meal prep?

Air fryers are ideal for batch-cooking proteins, roasting veggies, or crisping snacks ahead of time. Their quick cleanup and energy efficiency save time during busy weeks.