What Items Can We Cook in Air Fryer Discover Tasty Options

You can cook a surprisingly wide variety of foods in an air fryer—from crispy fries and juicy chicken wings to roasted vegetables and even baked desserts. This versatile appliance uses rapid hot air circulation to deliver golden, crunchy results with little to no oil, making it perfect for healthier versions of fried favorites, reheating leftovers, and preparing quick weeknight meals.

Key Takeaways

• Air fryers cook proteins perfectly: Try chicken wings, salmon, or tofu with crispy results.
• Vegetables become crispy delights: Roast broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or fries with minimal oil.
• Reheat leftovers like a pro: Restore crunch to pizza, fries, and fried foods effortlessly.
• Bake snacks and desserts easily: Make cookies, muffins, or even small cakes in minutes.
• Frozen foods shine in air fryers: Cook nuggets, mozzarella sticks, or tater tots to golden perfection.
• Experiment with unexpected items: Try pickles, kale chips, or even hard-boiled eggs for unique treats.

What Makes the Air Fryer a Kitchen Hero?

If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen, staring at a pile of frozen chicken tenders or a sad-looking sweet potato, wondering if there’s a faster, healthier way to cook them—chances are, your air fryer is the answer. I remember the first time I used mine. I was skeptical. Could a small countertop appliance really deliver crispy, golden results without drowning my food in oil? Spoiler: It did. And not just for fries. That moment sparked a full-on air fryer obsession. Now, I use mine almost daily, and it’s changed how I think about cooking.

The air fryer works by circulating super-hot air around food, creating a crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist. Think of it as a mini convection oven with a turbocharger. It’s not magic, but it feels like it. And the best part? You can cook what items can we cook in air fryer without flipping through endless cookbooks. From meats to veggies, desserts to leftovers, the possibilities are surprisingly vast. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student in a dorm, or just someone who hates scrubbing greasy pans, the air fryer can be your new best friend.

Meats & Proteins: Crispy, Juicy, and Oil-Free

Let’s start with what most people associate with air fryers: meats. And for good reason. The air fryer excels at cooking proteins with minimal effort and maximum flavor. No more splattering oil, no more uneven browning—just consistent, restaurant-quality results. But it’s not just about chicken nuggets (though they’re amazing). Here’s how to get the most out of your air fryer when it comes to proteins.

Chicken: From Tenders to Whole Birds

Chicken is a go-to for air fryer fans. Whether you’re working with boneless breasts, wings, or even a whole spatchcocked bird, the air fryer delivers. I once made air fryer chicken tenders for a family dinner, and my nephew—normally a picky eater—ate three servings. The key? A light spray of oil and a good seasoning blend.

• Chicken tenders or nuggets: Preheat to 375°F (190°C), cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. No need to thaw frozen ones—just add 2–3 minutes.
• Wings: 20–25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Toss with sauce after cooking for that sticky, crispy finish.
• Whole chicken (spatchcocked): 35–40 minutes at 360°F (180°C). Crispy skin, juicy meat—no basting required.

Tip: Pat chicken dry before seasoning. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. And if you’re marinating, do it for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 4 hours. Over-marinating can make the surface too wet.

Beef & Pork: Steaks, Burgers, and More

Yes, you can cook steaks and burgers in your air fryer. I was shocked too. I tried a ribeye once—seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and garlic powder—and it came out medium-rare with a perfect sear. The trick? High heat (400°F/200°C) and short cook time (8–10 minutes, depending on thickness).

• Beef steaks: 8–12 minutes at 400°F. Let rest 5 minutes after cooking.
• Hamburgers (1/4 lb): 10–12 minutes at 375°F. Add cheese in the last 1–2 minutes.
• Pork chops: 12–15 minutes at 380°F. Brine first for extra juiciness.
• Bacon: 8–10 minutes at 350°F. Lay flat in a single layer—no overlapping.

One thing to note: The air fryer won’t give you a deep char like a grill, but it’s close. And for weeknight dinners, that’s more than enough.

Seafood: Light, Flaky, and Fast

Seafood cooks fast in an air fryer—often in under 10 minutes. Shrimp, salmon, and cod are all excellent choices. I love making garlic butter shrimp for a quick weeknight meal. Just toss with butter, garlic, and lemon, then cook at 375°F for 6–8 minutes. The shrimp come out plump and juicy, with a slight crisp on the edges.

• Shrimp: 5–8 minutes at 375°F. Toss halfway.
• Salmon fillets: 10–12 minutes at 390°F. Add a honey-mustard glaze for extra flavor.
• Cod or tilapia: 8–10 minutes at 380°F. Lightly coat with panko for crunch.

Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the basket. Seafood needs space to cook evenly. And if you’re using frozen fish, pat it dry and add 1–2 minutes to the cook time.

Vegetables: Roasted, Crispy, and Nutrient-Rich

Vegetables in the air fryer? Absolutely. And they’re not just a side dish—they can be the star. I used to hate roasting veggies because it took 40 minutes and left my oven dirty. Now, I can have perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts in 15. The air fryer concentrates flavors, bringing out natural sweetness and creating a crisp exterior without mushy interiors.

Root Vegetables: Potatoes, Carrots, and Sweet Potatoes

These are air fryer staples. Cut them into even pieces (1-inch cubes or matchsticks), toss with a little oil and seasoning, and let the machine work its magic.

• French fries: 15–18 minutes at 400°F. Shake the basket halfway.
• Sweet potato wedges: 16–20 minutes at 390°F. Sprinkle with cinnamon and brown sugar after cooking.
• Carrot coins: 12–15 minutes at 380°F. Toss with honey and thyme.
• Beets: 18–22 minutes at 375°F. Let cool slightly before peeling.

Tip: Soak potato cuts in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking to remove excess starch. This helps them crisp up instead of steam.

Cruciferous & Leafy Greens: Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Kale

These often turn soggy in the oven, but the air fryer keeps them crisp. I make roasted broccoli weekly—just toss with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. The edges get charred, and the insides stay tender.

• Broccoli florets: 10–12 minutes at 375°F. Add Parmesan after cooking.
• Cauliflower: 12–15 minutes at 380°F. Try buffalo-style for a spicy kick.
• Kale chips: 6–8 minutes at 350°F. Watch closely—they burn fast.

Note: For kale chips, use a light oil spray. Too much oil makes them greasy instead of crisp.

Other Veggies: Zucchini, Asparagus, and Mushrooms

These cook quickly and take on great flavor. I love making air fryer zucchini coins—just slice, season, and cook for 8–10 minutes at 375°F. They’re perfect for a low-carb alternative to chips.

• Zucchini rounds: 8–10 minutes at 375°F. Top with breadcrumbs and cheese.
• Asparagus: 6–8 minutes at 390°F. Drizzle with lemon juice after cooking.
• Mushrooms: 10–12 minutes at 380°F. Try portobellos for a “burger” substitute.

Bonus: The air fryer is great for reheating leftover roasted veggies. Just 3–5 minutes at 350°F restores their crispness.

Baking & Desserts: Yes, You Can Bake in an Air Fryer

When I first heard you could bake in an air fryer, I laughed. Then I tried a chocolate mug cake. It was ready in 8 minutes, warm, gooey, and perfectly cooked. The air fryer’s small space and rapid heat make it ideal for single-serve desserts and small batches.

Mug Cakes & Brownies

These are perfect for late-night cravings or when you don’t want to heat up the whole oven. I keep a mix of cocoa powder, flour, sugar, and baking powder in a jar for quick mug cakes. Just add milk, egg, and a splash of oil, mix, and cook in an oven-safe mug for 6–8 minutes at 350°F.

• Chocolate mug cake: 7–9 minutes at 350°F. Let cool 1 minute before eating.
• Brownie bites: 10–12 minutes at 340°F. Use silicone molds for easy removal.

Tip: Use oven-safe dishes (ceramic, silicone, or metal). Avoid plastic or paper mugs—they can melt or catch fire.

Fruit-Based Desserts

Fruit caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer. I make apple chips weekly—just slice apples thin, toss with cinnamon, and cook at 360°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. They’re crunchy, sweet, and guilt-free.

• Apple chips: 10–12 minutes at 360°F. Use firm apples like Honeycrisp.
• Peach halves: 8–10 minutes at 375°F. Top with yogurt and granola.
• Bananas: 6–8 minutes at 350°F. Sprinkle with brown sugar and walnuts.

Note: Add a splash of lemon juice to apples or pears to prevent browning.

Small Baked Goods: Muffins, Scones, and Biscuits

You can bake mini muffins or scones in silicone molds. I made blueberry muffins in my air fryer—just filled the molds 3/4 full and baked at 330°F for 12–14 minutes. They came out fluffy and golden.

• Mini muffins: 10–12 minutes at 330°F. Use paper liners for easy cleanup.
• Biscuits: 8–10 minutes at 340°F. Brush with butter before cooking.

Pro tip: Preheat the air fryer for 3–5 minutes before baking. This ensures even rising.

Frozen Foods: A Game-Changer for Busy Days

Let’s be real: We all have days when cooking from scratch isn’t an option. That’s where the air fryer shines. It’s the ultimate tool for transforming frozen foods into crispy, delicious meals—no thawing required.

Frozen Appetizers & Snacks

From mozzarella sticks to jalapeño poppers, the air fryer handles frozen appetizers like a pro. I keep a bag of frozen spring rolls in my freezer for impromptu movie nights. Just 10 minutes at 400°F, and they’re crispy outside, hot and gooey inside.

• Frozen fries/chips: 12–15 minutes at 400°F. Shake halfway.
• Spring rolls/egg rolls: 10–12 minutes at 390°F. Spray with oil for extra crisp.
• Onion rings: 10–12 minutes at 400°F. Serve with dipping sauce.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd. Frozen items release steam, which can make them soggy if packed too tightly.

Frozen Entrees: Pizzas, Burritos, and More

Yes, you can cook frozen mini pizzas and burritos in your air fryer. I’ve made personal pizzas in 10 minutes at 375°F. The crust gets crispy, and the cheese melts perfectly. For burritos, 8–10 minutes at 380°F is all you need.

• Mini pizzas: 8–10 minutes at 375°F. Add fresh basil after cooking.
• Frozen burritos: 9–11 minutes at 380°F. Serve with salsa and sour cream.
• Fish sticks: 8–10 minutes at 400°F. Pair with tartar sauce.

Note: Check packaging. Some frozen foods recommend oven baking, but the air fryer often works just as well—and faster.

Frozen Meals: From Pasta to Stir-Fries

Frozen meals like lasagna or stir-fries can be reheated in the air fryer. I’ve reheated a frozen mac and cheese cup—just 6 minutes at 360°F, and it was creamy with a crispy top. For stir-fries, 8–10 minutes at 375°F keeps veggies crisp.

Tip: Pierce the film on frozen meals to let steam escape. This prevents sogginess.

Reheating & Leftovers: Crispy Again, Not Soggy

One of the air fryer’s best-kept secrets? Reheating. It restores crispiness to leftovers that would normally turn soggy in the microwave. I reheat pizza in my air fryer all the time—just 3–4 minutes at 350°F, and the crust is crisp, the cheese melty.

Reheating Pizza, Fried Chicken, and Fries

These are the ultimate test for a reheating method. The air fryer passes with flying colors.

• Pizza: 3–4 minutes at 350°F. Place directly on the basket.
• Fried chicken: 4–5 minutes at 375°F. Flip halfway.
• French fries: 3–4 minutes at 380°F. Shake the basket.

Tip: For pizza, add a slice of bread under the pizza to absorb excess grease.

Reheating Baked Goods & Pastries

Croissants, muffins, and even bagels can be reheated in the air fryer. I reheat a croissant for 2–3 minutes at 320°F, and it’s warm with a crisp exterior. For muffins, 3–4 minutes at 330°F brings back their fresh-baked texture.

Note: Avoid overcooking. Pastries dry out quickly in the air fryer.

Reheating Casseroles & Baked Dishes

For dishes like lasagna or shepherd’s pie, use an oven-safe dish. I reheat a slice of lasagna for 6–8 minutes at 360°F. The top gets crispy, and the inside is heated through.

Pro tip: Cover with foil for the first half of cooking to prevent drying, then remove for a crisp top.

Data Table: Air Fryer Cooking Times at a Glance

Item	Temp (°F)	Time (Min)	Notes
Chicken tenders	375	10–12	Flip halfway
French fries	400	15–18	Shake basket
Salmon fillet	390	10–12	Light oil spray
Broccoli	375	10–12	Toss with oil
Chocolate mug cake	350	7–9	Oven-safe mug
Frozen spring rolls	390	10–12	Don’t overcrowd
Reheat pizza	350	3–4	Add bread under

Final Thoughts: The Air Fryer’s True Potential

So, what items can we cook in air fryer? The list is longer than you might think. From crispy meats to tender veggies, baked desserts to reheated leftovers, the air fryer is a versatile tool that fits into almost any lifestyle. It’s not just for “air frying” in the traditional sense—it’s a mini oven, a reheating station, and a quick-baking solution all in one.

I’ve learned that the key to success is experimentation. Not every recipe will work perfectly the first time. Some foods need more oil, others less. Some need flipping, others don’t. But that’s part of the fun. Every batch teaches you something new. And with a little practice, you’ll find yourself reaching for the air fryer more than the stove.

Is it perfect? No. It has a smaller capacity than a full oven. Some foods still need pre-cooking (like raw potatoes). And yes, you’ll need to clean the basket regularly. But for speed, convenience, and flavor, it’s hard to beat. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, the air fryer opens up a world of tasty, healthy options—without the mess or hassle. So go ahead, try something new. Your taste buds (and your kitchen) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What items can we cook in an air fryer besides frozen foods?

You can cook fresh meats, vegetables, seafood, and even baked goods like muffins or cookies. The air fryer’s versatility lets you roast, reheat, or crisp almost anything with less oil.

Can I cook raw meat in an air fryer?

Yes, raw chicken, beef, pork, and even fish cook beautifully in an air fryer. Just season, set the temperature, and enjoy juicy, evenly cooked results in less time than an oven.

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

Try air-fried mozzarella sticks, sweet potato fries, kale chips, or even donuts. These snacks turn out crispy and delicious while using up to 80% less oil than traditional frying.

Can you cook vegetables in an air fryer without them getting soggy?

Absolutely! Toss veggies like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini in a little oil and seasoning for crispy, caramelized results. The air fryer’s rapid airflow ensures even browning without sogginess.

What items can we cook in an air fryer for breakfast?

Make fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, breakfast potatoes, or even reheat pastries. The air fryer speeds up morning prep while delivering consistent, golden-brown results.

Is it possible to bake desserts in an air fryer?

Yes! Small-batch desserts like brownies, apple turnovers, or even mini cheesecakes work well. Just adjust the temperature and time, and enjoy perfectly baked treats with a crispy edge.