The air fryer revolutionized cooking—so that we may enjoy crispy, delicious fried food with no remorse (and no grease). A beginner at air frying or looking to build on your repertoire? These 5 air fryer recipes will light up your next meal.
We’ll walk you through recipes for juicy chicken, crispy fries, tender salmon, roasted veggies, and even a dessert—yes, desserts work in the air fryer too! Plus, we’ll answer all your common questions like:
- What are the best air fryer recipes?
- Can you cook frozen food in an air fryer?
- Are air fryer recipes healthy?
Let’s get started on your journey to easy, crispy, healthy air fryer cooking!
1. Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Yes, and it turns out beautifully—moist inside, golden and crispy outside. Chicken thighs are ideal because they retain moisture better than breasts.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken dry and coat with olive oil.
- Rub with seasoning mix.
- Place in air fryer basket skin-side up.
- Cook for 22–25 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispness.
Tip: Use a meat thermometer—chicken is safe at 165°F.
2. Crispy Air Fryer French Fries
No more soggy oven fries—air frying is the key to golden, crispy perfection without deep frying.
Ingredients:
- 2 large russet potatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary
Instructions:
- Peel (optional) and slice potatoes into 1/4-inch sticks.
- Soak in cold water for 30 minutes to remove starch.
- Drain and pat dry thoroughly.
- Toss with oil and seasoning.
- Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 18–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed!
3. Garlic Butter Air Fryer Salmon
Cooking salmon in the air fryer is shockingly simple—and perfect every time.
Ingredients:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
- Mix butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
- Brush fillets and season with salt and pepper.
- Place skin-side down in basket.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes depending on thickness.
Tip: Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
4. Air Fryer Roasted Vegetables
Absolutely! Air fryers create perfect texture—crisp-tender with caramelized edges.
Ingredients:
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
Instructions:
- Toss veggies with oil and seasoning.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes.
Bonus: Great way to use up leftover veggies from the fridge.
5. Air Fryer Chocolate Lava Cakes
Yes, your air fryer is a dessert maker too! This one is a showstopper.
Ingredients (for 2 small ramekins):
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 egg + 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Melt butter and chocolate together.
- Whisk eggs, sugar, and salt.
- Combine all ingredients and pour into greased ramekins.
- Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 9–10 minutes.
Let cool for 1 minute, invert onto a plate, and enjoy the gooey center!
Can You Cook Frozen Food in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely—air fryers are perfect for frozen items like:
- Chicken nuggets
- French fries
- Mozzarella sticks
- Frozen salmon or shrimp
Just increase cook time by 2–4 minutes and check internal temperature. No need to thaw first!
What Is the Easiest Air Fryer Meal?
The answer is: frozen breaded chicken tenders or pre-seasoned salmon. Toss them in the basket, air fry for 10–15 minutes, and dinner is done.
For a homemade option: air fryer quesadillas with cheese and beans cook in 5–6 minutes at 370°F!
Can You Reheat Food in an Air Fryer?
Yes! In fact, it’s one of the best ways to revive leftover pizza, fries, fried chicken, and egg rolls—without making them soggy.
How to do it:
- Preheat to 350°F
- Reheat food for 3–6 minutes, flipping halfway
It’s quicker, crispier, and more energy-efficient than an oven.
What Are the Best Air Fryer Recipes?
Here are reader-favorite air fryer recipes you’ll keep coming back to:
| Type | Recipe Ideas |
| Protein | Chicken thighs, salmon, meatballs |
| Snacks | French fries, onion rings, zucchini chips |
| Veggies | Roasted cauliflower, Brussels sprouts |
| Desserts | Lava cakes, cookies, mini donuts |
| Frozen Foods | Nuggets, fish sticks, potstickers |
Are Air Fryer Recipes Healthy?
Generally, yes—air fryers use up to 80% less oil than traditional deep frying. This means:
- Fewer calories
- Lower saturated fat
- Less mess and no oil splatter
- Retained nutrients in vegetables
Choose lean meats, minimize added salt, and load up on veggies for the healthiest results.
Air Fryer Cooking Chart (Quick Reference)
| Food Item | Temp | Time |
| Chicken Thighs | 375°F | 22–25 min |
| French Fries | 380°F | 18–20 min |
| Salmon Fillets | 400°F | 8–10 min |
| Mixed Veggies | 375°F | 12–15 min |
| Lava Cakes | 370°F | 9–10 min |
| Reheating Leftovers | 350°F | 3–6 min |
RELATED RECIPES TO TRY:-
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Bread Recipe
- Easy Fluffy Vanilla Cake Recipe
- Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup (Avgolemono) Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use aluminum foil in the air fryer?
Yes, but make sure it doesn’t block the air flow. Never cover the entire basket.
2. Do air fryers need to be preheated?
Many recipes benefit from preheating 2–3 minutes for better texture.
3. What size air fryer is best?
- 2–3 quarts: for 1–2 people
- 4–6 quarts: for small families
- 8+ quarts or dual baskets: for meal prep or big families
4. Do you need oil to cook in an air fryer?
Just a little goes a long way. A light spritz or tablespoon helps crisp things up beautifully.
5. Can I bake cakes or muffins in an air fryer?
Yes! Use silicone cups or mini pans. Check a few minutes early, as bake times are quicker.
6. Can I line the air fryer with parchment paper?
Yes—just make sure it’s air fryer-safe and don’t place it during preheat without food on top.
Conclusion
With these 5 air fryer recipes, you’re set up for crispy, quick, and healthier meals any night of the week. From crispy fries to tender salmon, juicy chicken, and even air-fried desserts, this compact kitchen hero can do it all.
The best part? It makes cooking faster, simpler, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, these recipes are sure to become regulars in your rotation.
