40+ Best Air Fryer Recipes for Beginners

Discover the convenience and deliciousness of cooking with an air fryer! From crispy appetizers to juicy main dishes, this roundup offers a variety of recipes for a fuss-free cooking experience. Say goodbye to greasy messes and hello to easy, flavorful meals.

1. Crispy and Juicy Air Fryer Pork Chops

When you’re looking for a straightforward dinner that delivers on flavor and juiciness, air fryer pork chops are the answer. With minimal prep and a cooking method that keeps your kitchen clean, you can have perfectly cooked pork chops on the table in under an hour. The air fryer does wonders in retaining moisture while giving the meat a beautifully seared exterior.

2. Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp

Craving a deliciously crispy shrimp dish that’s ready in minutes? Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp is your answer. With minimal ingredients and the power of an air fryer, you can skip the deep-fried calories and still enjoy a dish with a satisfying crunch and tangy, spicy flavors.

3. Easy Garlic Parmesan Wings (Air-Fryer or Baked)

These Garlic Parmesan Wings offer a deliciously savory bite, perfect for game day or casual get-togethers. Prepare them in an air fryer for crispy skin without excess oil, or use your oven if you prefer, making them versatile and convenient.

4. Simple and Juicy Air Fryer Salmon

When you’re short on time but crave a healthy and delicious dinner, air fryer salmon is your answer. This method guarantees juicy, flaky fillets with a satisfyingly crispy exterior. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a no-fuss option that’s a joy to prepare.

5. Easy Homemade Air Fryer Onion Rings

Fired up the air fryer recently? These Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings are a perfect place to start. Quick and without the mess of deep-frying, these rings offer all the crunch you crave with only a fraction of the oil.

6. Easy Hot Honey Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Ready for a lunch upgrade? These Hot Honey Air Fryer Salmon Bites are the answer. With their tender texture and sweet-spicy glaze, they pair seamlessly with rice bowls, salads, or tacos. Plus, they’re quick to make, perfect for those busy weekdays.

7. Simple Crispy Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Forget the potato chips—these Air Fryer Pasta Chips are the crunchy, spicy snack you’ve been waiting for. Whip them up quickly in your air fryer for a satisfying treat that’s both addictive and easy.

8. Crispy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes

If you’re looking for a fuss-free side dish, these Easy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes are a game changer. They offer all the comfort of a traditional baked potato, with perfectly crispy skins and fluffy interiors, but without heating up your whole kitchen.

9. Crispy Air Fryer Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan

Discover the simplicity of a quick side dish with this Air Fryer Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan. This recipe is not only incredibly easy but also brings a vibrant freshness to your table, with minimal prep and cook time. You’ll find yourself coming back to it repeatedly for its unmatched taste and texture.

10. Easy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

If you’re craving classic Chicken Parmesan but want to keep it on the healthier side, this Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is the answer. It delivers all the flavors you love with less oil and reduced mess. Perfect for a quick but satisfying dinner.

11. Crispy Air Fryer Brussels with Bacon

Transform your Brussels sprouts into a savory, crispy delight with an air fryer. Pairing the hearty greens with bacon ensures a balanced mix of crunch and flavor, finished off perfectly with a touch of balsamic glaze. This simple side dish is ready in no time, ideal for busy family meals or impressing guests with minimal effort.

12. Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks

If you’re seeking an easy snack that can please a crowd or satisfy a craving, these Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks are perfect. Crisp on the outside, gooey inside, and healthier than their deep-fried counterparts, they’re a winning addition to any casual gathering or movie night.

13. Easy Air Fryer Steak Bites with Garlic Butter

When you crave steak but want to skip the grill, these Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites are your answer. Ready in under 20 minutes, they deliver juicy satisfaction without the hassle.

14. Extra Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Crispy chicken wings that are juicy on the inside and ready in no time? The air fryer makes this a reality, with minimal mess and maximum flavor. Perfect for a quick snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these wings shine with or without a sauce.

15. Crispy General Tso’s Chicken (No-Fry Method)

If you’re looking to make a satisfying General Tso’s Chicken without the hassle of deep frying, this recipe is your answer. You’ll enjoy all the savory and slightly sweet flavors without the extra sugar or gluten. Quick to prepare, this dish relies on simple techniques to achieve that signature crispy texture at home.

16. Crispy Air Fryer Pickles with Dipping Sauce

Crispy, crunchy, and utterly irresistible—these air fryer fried pickles are a simple appetizer you’ll want to make again and again. The air fryer makes them healthier than traditional fried pickles without sacrificing the deliciously crispy coating. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an easy party snack or a fun family treat.

17. Crispy Air Fryer Grilled Cheese

Need a quick, satisfying lunch? This Air Fryer Grilled Cheese isn’t just about speed—it’s a shortcut to perfect crispiness without greasiness. Achieve golden bread and melted cheese in mere minutes with minimal cleanup.

18. Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Bites

Air fryer broccoli effortlessly transforms your everyday vegetable into a crisp-tender delight, all in under 10 minutes. Perfect as a simple yet delicious side dish, this method brings out the natural flavors of broccoli while giving it a slightly crunchy texture.

19. Air Fryer Chicken Wings – Extra Crispy!

If you’re in need of a quick and delicious way to enjoy chicken wings, the air fryer offers a game-changing solution. By combining high-speed convection with simplicity, you achieve perfectly crispy wings in just 16 minutes without the need for marinating.

20. Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes

Embrace the ease of crispy air fryer potatoes! Minimal prep, quick cooking, and delectable results make this a must-try for any home chef. These potatoes are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and seasoned perfectly for a guilt-free snack or side.

21. Quick and Delicious Air Fryer Hot Dogs

If you’re craving hot dogs with that perfect snap, using an air fryer is a quick, mess-free solution. The intense circulating heat gives them a juicy finish, bringing out the best flavors without the fuss of a grill.

22. Easy Air Fryer Corn On The Cob

Air fryer corn on the cob offers a fast, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this classic side dish. Not only does the air fryer cook corn beautifully with less fuss, but it also brings out its natural sweetness while keeping it crisp.

23. Easy Air Fryer Salmon

If you’re looking for a simple, speedy way to prepare salmon, this Air Fryer Salmon recipe will be a lifesaver. In just 10 minutes, you can enjoy perfectly cooked fish with seared edges and a tender, flaky center. Plus, it’s both low-carb and low-calorie.

24. Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Kabobs

Air fryer chicken kabobs are a game-changer for any midweek meal. They bring juicy chicken and colorful veggies together in a dish that’s ready in no time, with minimal cleanup involved. This simple yet flavorful recipe ensures tender chicken every time, making it a favorite for busy cooks.

25. Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

These air fryer zucchini fries are astonishingly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with savory flavor. Paired with a zesty, homemade garlic aioli for dipping, this recipe transforms a simple vegetable into a show-stopping appetizer, side dish, or healthy snack. The magic of the air fryer means you get that satisfying crunch with minimal oil and even less cleanup.

26. Mouthwatering Air Fryer Burgers

For a quick route to savory, juicy burgers, the Air Fryer earns its keep. These hamburgers achieve a satisfying crispy exterior while maintaining a tender, flavorful core in with just 20 minutes of cooking time. No need to fire up the grill—this method seamlessly delivers, ensuring a perfect patty every time.

27. Air Fryer Egg Bites

These Air Fryer Egg Bites are a quick, protein-packed breakfast or snack that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Made with eggs, milk, green onions, ham, and cheese, they’re fluffy, flavorful, and ready in minutes. Perfect for meal prep or busy mornings, these egg bites bring a café-style treat straight to your kitchen—no sous vide required!

28. Air Fryer Egg Roll

Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a quick snack, or a light meal, this recipe is a game-changer. The filling is completely customizable, and you can even make a big batch to freeze for later. Get ready to ditch the takeout menu and create delicious, healthier egg rolls right in your own kitchen!

29. Air Fryer Eggplant

This air fryer eggplant recipe transforms a simple vegetable into a wonderfully crispy, cheesy, and flavorful dish without the need for deep frying. By using finely grated Parmesan cheese instead of traditional breadcrumbs, you get an irresistibly crunchy, low-carb coating that perfectly complements the tender, creamy interior of the eggplant.

30. Crispy Air Fryer Tofu

This crispy tofu recipe delivers bold flavor and a satisfying crunch with minimal effort. Firm tofu is coated in a seasoned cornstarch mixture, then air-fried or baked until golden and crispy. The tofu is paired with a creamy, spicy sauce made from mayo, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, creating the perfect balance of heat and sweetness.

31. Simple Air Fryer Steak

This simple yet flavorful sirloin steak recipe uses a bold blend of garlic powder, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper to enhance the natural richness of the meat. With just a quick seasoning and a light spritz of olive oil, these steaks cook up perfectly juicy and tender, making them an easy go-to for a satisfying meal.

32. Easy Roasted Carrots Air Fryer

These crispy air fryer carrots are a quick and flavorful side dish that’s ready in just 15 minutes! Coated in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, they turn perfectly tender inside with a crispy, caramelized exterior. A final sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley adds a delicious finishing touch. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a healthy snack!

33. Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

If you love crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders without the mess of deep frying, this air fryer version is for you! These homemade chicken tenders are packed with flavor, thanks to a seasoned flour coating that creates the perfect crunch. Using an air fryer means less oil and a faster cook time, making this an easy weeknight meal or a perfect addition to your game-day spread.

34. Simple Air Fryer Chickpeas

Crispy Seasoned Chickpeas are a simple, crunchy, and flavorful snack that comes together with just a can of chickpeas and your favorite seasonings. With a light spray of olive oil and a quick roast, these chickpeas turn into a deliciously crispy treat perfect for snacking, topping salads, or adding crunch to bowls.

35. Easy Air Fryer Chicken Wing

These crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings take just 5 minutes to prep with basic pantry seasonings. Whether you’re cooking from fresh or frozen, these wings turn out perfectly crispy every time. Choose from Buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, garlic parmesan, or honey sriracha—they’re guaranteed to be the highlight of every party, game day, or easy weeknight dinner!

36. Easy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

This perfectly seasoned pork tenderloin is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with savory goodness. A blend of kosher salt, brown sugar, black pepper, thyme, paprika, and garlic powder creates a delicious crust, while a quick sear in olive oil locks in the juiciness.

37. Simple Air Fryer Pork Belly

This irresistibly crispy and juicy Air Fryer Pork Belly is the stuff dreams are made of. By using the magic of the air fryer, you can achieve that perfect, crackling skin and tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat with minimal fuss and less oil than traditional methods. This detailed guide is designed for beginners, walking you through every step to ensure a flawless result. 

38. Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

This air fryer chicken breast is incredibly juicy, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes! The air fryer locks in moisture while creating a perfectly golden exterior—no drying out, no fuss.

39. Easy Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts

These air fryer Brussels sprouts are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with rich, roasted flavor. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, they’re the perfect side dish for any meal!

40. Easy Air Fryer Asparagus

This Air Fryer Asparagus is a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that’s crisp, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. With just a handful of ingredients—olive oil, salt, pepper, and a touch of thyme—you’ll have tender asparagus with a deliciously crispy finish. A sprinkle of Parmesan and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice take it to the next level, while red pepper flakes add optional heat.

41. Simple Air Fryer Broccoli

This air fryer broccoli is crisp-tender, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect quick and healthy side dish. Tossed in olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, it’s a quick and flavorful side dish that pairs well with any meal. Ready in minutes, it’s the perfect way to enjoy broccoli at its best!

42. Easy Air Fryer Sweet Potato

These air fryer sweet potatoes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect quick and easy side dish or snack. The combination of air frying at high heat and a perfectly balanced seasoning mix gives these sweet potatoes a deliciously caramelized texture in just 10 minutes. Whether you enjoy them on their own, toss them in salads, or add them to wraps and grain bowls, this air fryer recipe is a must-try!

43. Simple Air Fryer Pickles

Crispy, crunchy, and packed with tangy flavor, these fried pickles are a delicious snack or appetizer! Instead of deep frying, this recipe uses a light coating of panko breadcrumbs and a touch of olive oil for a golden, crispy texture.

44. Simple Air Fryer Cauliflower

This Roasted Turmeric Cauliflower is a simple yet flavorful side dish that’s packed with warm spices and a hint of smokiness. Tossed with olive oil, turmeric, and smoked paprika, these crispy, golden florets make a deliciously healthy addition to any meal.

45. Easy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

These crispy sweet potato fries are a simple yet delicious side dish or snack. Lightly seasoned with garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper, they’re baked to perfection with a touch of canola oil for a crispy finish.

46. Easy Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

This recipe creates crispy Parmesan zucchini chips using simple ingredients. Thinly sliced zucchini rounds are coated in a mixture of panko bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese, then dipped in beaten egg to help the coating stick.

47. Simple Crispy Air Fryer French Fries

Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, these homemade fries are easy to make and endlessly customizable. Using simple pantry ingredients, this recipe delivers perfectly seasoned fries with a crispy exterior and fluffy center.

48. Simple Air Fryer Fried Chicken

This Air Fryer Fried Chicken recipe delivers the irresistibly crispy, golden-brown crust and juicy, tender meat of classic fried chicken without the mess and excess oil of deep-frying. Marinated in tangy buttermilk and coated in a perfectly seasoned flour mixture, this chicken turns out juicy on the inside and irresistibly crispy on the outside.

49. Easy Air Fryer Salmon

This Air Fryer Salmon is a quick, flavorful, and foolproof way to prepare perfectly cooked fish in under 15 minutes. The simple glaze—made with Dijon mustard, honey or brown sugar, soy sauce, and spices—creates a beautifully caramelized crust while keeping the salmon tender and juicy inside.

Leave a Comment