Getting started with your air fryer can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to deciding what to cook. With so many options out there, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut and keep making the same old dishes. But fear not! We’re here to help you break free from that culinary routine and explore the amazing world of air frying.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes perfect for beginners. From classic comfort foods like crispy French fries and sweet potato wedges, to healthier options like zucchini chips and avocado egg rolls, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe is designed to bring out the best in your air fryer, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
So go ahead, give these recipes a try, and discover just how versatile and delicious air frying can be!
Crispy Air Fryer French Fries
A classic favorite, elevated with the ease and convenience of air frying! This recipe yields crispy, golden fries with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the potatoes into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch thick).
3. Rinse the potato strips with cold water to remove excess starch.
4. Dry the fries thoroughly with paper towels or a clean cloth.
5. In a bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until evenly coated.
6. Load the fries into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each fry.
7. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
8. Check for crispiness; if needed, cook an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Simple Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Elevate your snack game with this easy and delicious air fryer chicken wing recipe! With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying crispy and flavorful wings in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (or your preferred hot sauce)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken wings and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a bowl, mix together the Frank’s RedHot sauce and olive oil.
4. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the sauce mixture.
5. Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches).
6. Cook the wings for 20-25 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your veggie game with this simple and flavorful recipe! In just a few minutes, you can transform humble Brussels sprouts into a savory delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Load the sprouts into the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through. The sprouts should be tender and caramelized, with some browning on the edges.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon
Easy Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon: A Quick and Delicious Recipe
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy and flavorful air fryer salmon recipe, infused with a bright and citrusy lemon flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle the lemon mixture evenly.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges
Get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy snack with our Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges recipe. This easy-to-make recipe yields crispy, flavorful wedges with minimal oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., paprika, garlic powder, chili powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick wedges.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the sweet potato wedges to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
5. Place the wedges in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quick Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Transform your snack game with this easy recipe for crispy mozzarella sticks cooked to perfection in an air fryer!
Ingredients:
– 12-16 mozzarella cheese sticks (your favorite brand)
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Garlic powder or Italian seasoning for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each mozzarella stick into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place the coated mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes per batch
Tips:
– For an extra crispy coating, spray the mozzarella sticks with a small amount of olive oil before cooking.
– Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders
Transform frozen chicken tenders into a crispy and flavorful snack with minimal effort using your air fryer. This recipe yields delicious results with little to no mess.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 pounds frozen chicken tenders
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse frozen chicken tenders under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
3. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Add your desired seasonings if using.
4. Toss the chicken tenders in the oil mixture until evenly coated.
5. Load the air fryer basket with the coated chicken tenders in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on your air fryer’s size.
6. Cook the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Check for crispiness and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes if needed.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Healthy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
Transform zucchinis into crispy, flavorful chips without the guilt. This recipe uses an air fryer to create a tasty snack that’s low in calories and rich in nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
3. In a bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until evenly coated.
4. Load the zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Check for crispiness and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes if needed.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Tips:
– For an extra crunchy texture, pat the zucchini slices dry with a paper towel before cooking.
– Experiment with different seasonings or herbs to create unique flavor combinations.
Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Start your day with a delicious and healthier twist on traditional donuts, made possible with the help of an Air Fryer. These cinnamon sugar donuts are easy to make and require minimal mess.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg
– Cinnamon sugar (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast, flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add milk, melted butter, and egg; mix until smooth.
3. Pipe mixture into rings onto parchment-lined Air Fryer basket.
4. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown.
5. While still warm, toss in cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes per batch
Air Fryer BBQ Pork Chops
Elevate your pork chop game with this easy and flavorful Air Fryer recipe, featuring a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Spray both sides of pork chops with cooking spray or brush with oil.
4. Place pork chops in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Brush the BBQ glaze all over the pork chops during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
7. Remove from the Air Fryer and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes total
Enjoy your deliciously air-fried, BBQ-glazed pork chops!
Air Fryer Avocado Egg Rolls
Get ready to experience a delightful fusion of creamy avocado and savory egg rolls, all with the convenience of your air fryer!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup cooked and chopped hard-boiled eggs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 package of egg roll wrappers (usually found in the produce section or international aisle)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together mashed avocado, cooked eggs, soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
3. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the avocado-egg mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Place the rolled egg rolls in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each roll.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Simple Air Fryer Shrimp Scampi
Transform your favorite seafood dish into a healthier, quicker option with this Simple Air Fryer Shrimp Scampi recipe. By using the air fryer, you can achieve crispy and flavorful shrimp without deep-frying.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Load the shrimp into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Air Fryer Frozen Onion Rings
Get the perfect balance of crunch and flavor with this easy air fryer recipe for frozen onion rings.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen onion rings
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the frozen onion rings in a single layer at the bottom of the air fryer basket.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the onion rings and sprinkle with salt to taste.
4. If desired, add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
5. Cook the onion rings for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
6. Check on the onion rings after 10 minutes and continue cooking in 2-minute increments until crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Air Fryer Apple Chips
Easy Air Fryer Apple Chips Recipe
Transform fresh apples into crispy, delicious chips with this simple air fryer recipe. Perfect as a healthy snack or topping for oatmeal or yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples (any variety), sliced into thin rounds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together honey, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add the apple slices to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Load the apple slices into the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
5. Cook the apple chips for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Check for crispiness and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes if needed.
7. Remove from the air fryer and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Satisfy your cravings with these mouthwatering Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Tender, flavorful bites of steak smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s ready in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef steak (such as sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and paprika.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place steak bites in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the steak bites.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cooked to desired doneness.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Frozen Fish Sticks
Revamp your favorite childhood snack with a healthier twist using an air fryer. This recipe yields crispy, golden-brown fish sticks with minimal oil and effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen fish sticks (thawed)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the thawed fish sticks in a single layer on the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the fish sticks and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the fish sticks for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Check the fish sticks for crispiness and cooking doneness. If needed, continue to cook in 2-minute increments until desired level of crispiness is achieved.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Quick Air Fryer Banana Bread
Transform your favorite banana bread recipe into a crispy, golden brown treat with this quick and easy air fryer hack. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, this recipe yields a moist and flavorful banana bread in under 10 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, and egg to the dry mixture. Mix until smooth.
4. Pour the batter into a lined or greased air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Check for doneness; if needed, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this easy and delicious recipe for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This dish is a perfect combination of crispy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in olive oil, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 12-14 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Air Fryer Frozen Mozzarella Sticks
Transform frozen mozzarella sticks into a crispy and delicious snack with minimal effort using your air fryer. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch, after-school snack, or game-day treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of frozen mozzarella sticks
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste (optional)
– Your favorite dipping sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the frozen mozzarella sticks in a single layer at the bottom of the air fryer basket.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt if desired.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Check on the mozzarella sticks after 5 minutes. If they’re not crispy enough, continue to cook in 1-minute increments until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
6. Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Easy Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies
A sweet treat that’s ready in no time! These chewy cookies are a perfect combination of crispy edges and soft centers, all thanks to the air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the air fryer basket, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Summary
Get started with your air fryer and discover the world of delicious and easy recipes! This article presents 20 beginner-friendly dishes that will make you fall in love with your air fryer. From crispy French fries to sweet potato wedges, juicy chicken wings, and savory salmon fillets, there’s something for everyone. Learn how to cook frozen treats like onion rings and mozzarella sticks, or indulge in healthier options like zucchini chips and avocado egg rolls. Treat yourself to sweet delights like cinnamon sugar donuts and banana bread, or go all out with indulgent recipes like garlic parmesan Brussels sprouts and parmesan crusted chicken. Whatever your taste buds crave, this article has got you covered!
