16 Amazing Air Fryer Recipes You’ll Make Again and Again

Air fryers have changed the way we cook at home, making crispy favorites healthier and faster than ever before.

These sixteen incredible recipes will help you get the most out of your air fryer with dishes everyone will love.

01. Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Rounds

Golden zucchini slices with perfectly crispy exteriors and tender, creamy centers. Fresh lemon juice brightens every bite with zesty flavor.

Ingredients: 2 medium zucchini, 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 large eggs, ½ cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt and pepper, 1 lemon, cooking spray.

How To Make Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini Rounds

1. Slice zucchini into ¼-inch thick rounds and pat completely dry with paper towels. Salt the slices and let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry again for maximum crispiness.

2. Set up three shallow dishes for breading. Place flour seasoned with salt and pepper in the first dish. Beat eggs in the second dish. Combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in the third dish.

3. Dredge each zucchini round in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help coating stick. Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange rounds in single layer without overlapping.

4. Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over hot zucchini rounds before serving for bright, tangy flavor that complements the crispy coating perfectly.

02. Roasted Air Fryer Butternut Squash

Tender butternut squash cubes with caramelized edges and natural sweetness enhanced by simple seasonings. This versatile side pairs beautifully with any main dish.

Ingredients: 2 pounds butternut squash, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, 2 tablespoons fresh thyme.

How To Make Roasted Air Fryer Butternut Squash

1. Peel butternut squash and remove seeds, then cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Pat pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture that could prevent proper browning.

2. Toss cubed squash with olive oil in a large bowl until evenly coated. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cinnamon, then toss again to distribute seasonings evenly on all pieces.

3. Place seasoned squash in air fryer basket in single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking basket every 5 minutes to ensure even browning.

4. Continue cooking until squash is fork-tender and edges are golden brown and slightly caramelized. Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves during last 2 minutes of cooking for aromatic herb flavor.

5. Serve immediately while hot, or let cool and use in salads or grain bowls for added sweetness and nutrition.

03. Air Fryer Beets with Creamy Feta

Earthy roasted beets paired with tangy feta cheese create a colorful, nutritious dish. Enjoy warm as a side or cold in salads.

Ingredients: 4 medium fresh beets, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 4 ounces feta cheese, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons fresh dill, 1 tablespoon honey.

How To Make Air Fryer Beets with Creamy Feta

1. Scrub beets thoroughly and trim tops, leaving about 1 inch of stem to prevent bleeding during cooking. Pierce each beet several times with a fork to allow steam to escape and prevent bursting.

2. Rub beets with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Place in air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, depending on size, until tender when pierced with a knife.

3. Let beets cool enough to handle, then peel off skins using paper towels or your hands. The skins should slip off easily once cooked. Cut into wedges or thick slices for serving.

4. Arrange beet pieces on serving plate and crumble feta cheese over top. Whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey, then drizzle over beets and feta.

5. Garnish with fresh dill and serve warm, or refrigerate and serve chilled as part of a salad for refreshing flavor contrast.

04. Air Fryer Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers

Classic stuffed peppers made easier in the air fryer with tender-crisp peppers and savory turkey filling. Family-friendly comfort food that’s fun to eat.

Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers, 1 pound ground turkey, 1 cup cooked rice, 1 small onion diced, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 can diced tomatoes, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt and pepper, 2 tablespoons olive oil.

How To Make Air Fryer Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers

1. Cut tops off bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes completely. Trim bottom slightly if needed to help peppers stand upright, being careful not to create holes in the bottom.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook diced onion until softened, about 3 minutes, then add garlic and cook 1 minute more until fragrant throughout.

3. Add ground turkey to skillet and cook, breaking up with spoon, until no longer pink. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook 2 minutes more to blend flavors.

4. Remove from heat and stir in half the cheese. Stuff each pepper generously with turkey mixture, packing lightly. Top each pepper with remaining cheese for melted, golden finish.

5. Place stuffed peppers in air fryer basket and cook at 360°F for 15-18 minutes until peppers are tender-crisp and cheese is melted and lightly browned on top.

05. Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Restaurant-quality chicken tenders with golden, crispy coating and juicy interior. Italian seasoning adds perfect flavor to these family favorites.

Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken tenderloins, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 3 large eggs, 2 cups panko breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, salt and pepper, cooking spray.

How To Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

1. Pat chicken tenderloins completely dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while preparing breading station for best results.

2. Set up three shallow dishes for breading process. Place flour seasoned with salt and pepper in first dish. Beat eggs in second dish. Combine panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika in third dish.

3. Working with one tenderloin at a time, coat in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press into seasoned breadcrumbs, ensuring complete coverage on all sides.

4. Spray air fryer basket generously with cooking spray. Arrange breaded tenders in single layer without touching, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding that prevents proper crisping.

5. Spray tops of tenders with cooking spray and air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.

6. Serve immediately with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce while coating is still crispy and chicken is hot and juicy inside.

06. Air Fryer Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers

Flavorful turkey burgers packed with spinach, feta, and fresh herbs stay incredibly moist and juicy. Air frying creates perfect texture without drying out.

Ingredients: 1½ pounds ground turkey, 1 cup fresh spinach chopped, ½ cup crumbled feta cheese, 2 cloves garlic minced, ¼ cup fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, salt and pepper, 4 burger buns.

How To Make Air Fryer Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers

1. Combine ground turkey, chopped spinach, crumbled feta, minced garlic, parsley, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper in large bowl. Mix gently with hands just until ingredients are evenly distributed, being careful not to overmix.

2. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about ¾-inch thick. Create a slight indentation in center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing during cooking.

3. Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes. Lightly spray basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then place patties in basket with space between each one for proper air circulation.

4. Cook for 12-14 minutes, flipping carefully halfway through cooking time, until internal temperature reaches 165°F and patties are golden brown on both sides with no pink remaining.

5. Let burgers rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute. Serve on toasted buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and red onion for complete meal.

07. Garlic Herb Air Fryer Salmon

Perfectly flaky salmon with crispy garlic topping and warm spices. The fish stays delicately cooked while developing beautiful color and flavor.

Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets, 3 cloves garlic minced, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, lemon wedges.

How To Make Garlic Herb Air Fryer Salmon

1. Pat salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels and let come to room temperature for 15 minutes for even cooking. Check for any remaining pin bones and remove with tweezers if found.

2. Mix minced garlic with olive oil, Aleppo pepper, coriander, salt, and black pepper in small bowl to create aromatic paste. The oil helps the garlic crisp up beautifully during cooking.

3. Rub spice mixture evenly over top and sides of each salmon fillet, pressing gently to help seasonings adhere. Let marinate for 10 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate the fish.

4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F and lightly spray basket with cooking spray. Place seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down in basket, leaving space between each piece for proper air circulation.

5. Air fry for 7-10 minutes depending on thickness, until fish flakes easily with fork and internal temperature reaches 145°F. The garlic should be golden and crispy on top.

6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges for bright, citrusy finish that complements the earthy spices perfectly.

08. Sweet and Tangy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

Tender, juicy pork with flavorful sweet and tangy rub that caramelizes beautifully. Cut tenderloin in half if needed to fit your air fryer.

Ingredients: 2 pork tenderloins, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 2 tablespoons olive oil.

How To Make Sweet and Tangy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

1. Remove silver skin from pork tenderloins using sharp knife, sliding blade under membrane and pulling away. Pat meat completely dry with paper towels for better seasoning adhesion and browning.

2. Combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper in small bowl to create flavorful rub. Mix thoroughly to distribute spices evenly throughout.

3. Rub olive oil all over pork tenderloins, then coat generously with spice mixture, pressing firmly to help seasonings stick. Let marinate at room temperature for 20 minutes for deeper flavor penetration.

4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F. If tenderloins are too long for your basket, cut in half crosswise. Place in basket without touching and cook for 18-22 minutes, turning every 6 minutes.

5. Cook until internal temperature reaches 145°F and exterior is beautifully caramelized and golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.

09. Air Fryer Mini Cheesecakes

Individual creamy cheesecakes made simple in the air fryer without water baths. Top with fresh fruit or enjoy plain for perfect portion control.

Ingredients: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs, 3 tablespoons melted butter, 16 ounces cream cheese softened, ½ cup sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ¼ cup sour cream, fresh berries for topping.

How To Make Air Fryer Mini Cheesecakes

1. Line 6 ramekins or silicone molds with parchment paper for easy removal. Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until evenly moistened and mixture holds together when pressed.

2. Divide crumb mixture among prepared ramekins and press firmly into bottom to create even crust layer. Use the bottom of a small glass to pack crusts tightly and create smooth surface.

3. Beat softened cream cheese with electric mixer until completely smooth and no lumps remain. Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes, scraping bowl sides as needed.

4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla and sour cream until just combined. Don’t overmix to prevent cracks. Divide filling evenly among ramekins, filling about ¾ full.

5. Place ramekins in air fryer basket and cook at 300°F for 12-15 minutes until centers are almost set but still slightly jiggly. Cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.

6. Run knife around edges to loosen, then carefully remove from ramekins. Top with fresh berries or your favorite toppings before serving for beautiful presentation.

10. Crispy Air Fryer Fish Cakes

Golden fish cakes with sweet chili sauce and fresh cilantro get crispy exteriors without deep frying. Fresh lime juice brightens every bite perfectly.

Ingredients: 1 pound white fish fillets, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped, 2 green onions minced, 1 egg beaten, ½ cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 lime, salt and pepper, cooking spray.

How To Make Crispy Air Fryer Fish Cakes

1. Cook fish fillets in air fryer at 400°F for 8-10 minutes until flaky, or use leftover cooked fish. Let cool completely, then flake into small pieces, removing any bones or skin carefully.

2. Combine flaked fish, sweet chili sauce, cilantro, green onions, beaten egg, and mayonnaise in large bowl. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to break up fish too much.

3. Season mixture with salt and pepper, then form into 8 small patties about 3 inches across. Place on plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them hold together during cooking.

4. Coat each fish cake lightly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help coating adhere. Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange cakes without touching.

5. Spray tops with cooking spray and air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping carefully halfway through, until golden brown and heated through completely.

6. Serve immediately with lime wedges for squeezing over hot fish cakes. The bright citrus juice brings all the flavors together beautifully and adds essential freshness.

11. Lightened Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Sweet and sticky orange chicken made healthier in the air fryer with less oil and sugar. Serve with brown rice and steamed vegetables for complete meal.

Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken thighs cut into chunks, 1 cup cornstarch, 2 eggs beaten, ½ cup orange juice, ¼ cup rice vinegar, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated, 1 teaspoon orange zest, green onions for garnish.

How To Make Lightened Air Fryer Orange Chicken

1. Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks and pat completely dry. Dredge pieces in cornstarch, then dip in beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off for lighter coating.

2. Spray air fryer basket generously with cooking spray. Arrange coated chicken pieces in single layer without touching, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding that prevents crisping.

3. Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking basket every 5 minutes, until chicken is golden brown and crispy on all sides and internal temperature reaches 165°F throughout.

4. While chicken cooks, whisk together orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and orange zest in small saucepan for flavorful sauce.

5. Bring sauce to simmer over medium heat and cook 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed for perfect balance.

6. Toss hot crispy chicken with warm orange sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately while coating is still glossy and chicken is hot.

12. Buttermilk Air Fryer Fried Chicken Thighs

Incredibly crispy chicken thighs marinated in buttermilk and coated with seasoned breadcrumbs. Air frying creates perfect texture with much less oil than traditional frying.

Ingredients: 8 chicken thighs bone-in skin-on, 2 cups buttermilk, 2 cups panko breadcrumbs, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, cooking spray.

How To Make Buttermilk Air Fryer Fried Chicken Thighs

1. Place chicken thighs in large bowl and pour buttermilk over them, ensuring all pieces are completely submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.

2. Combine panko breadcrumbs, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne in large shallow dish. Mix thoroughly to distribute all seasonings evenly throughout coating mixture.

3. Remove chicken from buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off but leaving some coating for better breadcrumb adhesion. Don’t pat completely dry as moisture helps coating stick properly.

4. Dredge each thigh in seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to create thick, even coating on all sides. Shake off any excess coating to prevent burning during cooking.

5. Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange chicken thighs skin-side down, leaving space between pieces. Spray tops with cooking spray for extra crispiness and golden color.

6. Air fry at 380°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until skin is golden brown and crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

13. Classic Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Crispy buffalo wings with authentic flavor made easy in the air fryer. Just ten minutes of prep time creates this sports bar favorite at home.

Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings split, ½ cup hot sauce, 4 tablespoons butter melted, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, celery sticks, blue cheese dressing for serving.

How To Make Classic Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

1. Pat chicken wings completely dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while preparing buffalo sauce for best results.

2. Whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, vinegar, and garlic powder in large bowl until smooth and well combined. Set aside half the sauce for tossing cooked wings.

3. Preheat air fryer to 380°F and arrange wings in single layer in basket, working in batches if necessary. Don’t overcrowd as this prevents proper crisping and browning.

4. Cook wings for 20-25 minutes, flipping every 8 minutes and shaking basket to ensure even cooking on all sides. Wings should be golden brown and crispy when done.

5. Transfer hot wings to bowl with reserved buffalo sauce and toss until evenly coated. The hot wings will help warm the sauce and create perfect consistency for clinging.

6. Serve immediately with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing while wings are still hot and crispy with sauce that’s perfectly spicy and tangy.

14. Golden Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters

Crispy zucchini fritters with tender, savory centers taste just like skillet-fried versions. Sour cream and fresh mint make perfect cooling accompaniments.

Ingredients: 3 medium zucchini grated, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 large eggs beaten, 2 green onions minced, 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped, ½ teaspoon black pepper, sour cream and fresh mint for serving.

How To Make Golden Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters

1. Grate zucchini using large holes of box grater and place in colander. Sprinkle with salt and toss to combine, then let drain for 20 minutes to remove excess moisture.

2. Squeeze grated zucchini firmly in clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for crispy fritters that won’t fall apart.

3. Combine squeezed zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, green onions, dill, and black pepper in large bowl. Mix until ingredients are just combined and mixture holds together when pressed.

4. Form mixture into 8 small patties about 3 inches across, pressing firmly to compact. Place on plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them maintain shape during cooking.

5. Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange fritters without touching. Spray tops lightly with cooking spray for extra golden color and crispiness on surface.

6. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping carefully halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Serve hot with dollops of sour cream and fresh mint leaves.

15. Cornflake Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Kid-friendly chicken nuggets with extra-crispy cornflake coating that parents love too. Quick dinner solution that’s healthier than store-bought versions.

Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, 3 cups cornflakes crushed, ½ cup all-purpose flour, 2 large eggs beaten, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, cooking spray, honey mustard for dipping.

How To Make Cornflake Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

1. Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized nugget pieces about 1½ inches each. Pat completely dry with paper towels and season with half the salt and pepper for better flavor throughout.

2. Set up breading station with three shallow dishes. Place flour in first dish. Beat eggs in second dish. Combine crushed cornflakes, garlic powder, paprika, remaining salt and pepper in third dish.

3. Working in batches, coat chicken pieces in flour, then beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, roll in seasoned cornflake mixture, pressing gently to help coating adhere firmly.

4. Spray air fryer basket generously with cooking spray. Arrange coated nuggets in single layer without touching, working in batches to avoid overcrowding that prevents proper crisping.

5. Spray tops of nuggets with cooking spray and air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking basket halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.

6. Serve immediately while coating is still crispy and chicken is hot and juicy inside. Provide honey mustard or other favorite dipping sauces for complete kid-friendly meal.

16. Game Day Air Fryer Pickle Chips

Crispy, salty pickle chips perfect for game day snacking made with much less oil than traditional frying. Enjoy alone or with creamy dipping sauce.

Ingredients: 2 cups dill pickle slices drained, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 large eggs beaten, 2 cups panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, cooking spray, ranch dressing for dipping.

How To Make Game Day Air Fryer Pickle Chips

1. Pat pickle slices completely dry with paper towels, pressing firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. Excess liquid will prevent proper coating adhesion and crispiness during cooking.

2. Set up three-station breading process using shallow dishes. Place flour in first dish. Beat eggs thoroughly in second dish. Combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne in third dish.

3. Working with several pickle slices at once, dredge in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off completely for lighter coating.

4. Press pickle slices into seasoned breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly and pressing gently to help coating stick. The cheese helps create extra golden, crispy exterior.

5. Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange coated pickles in single layer without overlapping. Spray tops with cooking spray for maximum crispiness and golden color.

6. Air fry at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Serve immediately while hot with ranch dressing or your favorite creamy dipping sauce.

Final Thoughts

These air fryer recipes prove that healthy cooking doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture in your favorite dishes.

From crispy appetizers to complete meals, your air fryer opens up endless possibilities for delicious home cooking adventures.