Easy Air Fryer Dinner Recipes — The air fryer has been a popular kitchen appliance over the past few years and for a good reason.
It’s a great way to cook food without added oil. If you’re looking for easy air fryer dinner recipes, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a list of 20 recipes that are sure to please. There’s something for everyone in this roundup, from chicken to fish to vegetables. So what are you waiting for? Start cooking!
So, if you have been stuck in a dinner routine and looking for some new Air Fryer Dinner Recipes that are both easy and delicious, you have come to the right place! And what is better is these are homemade recipes that come right from my family’s dinner table. I hope you and your family enjoy them as much as mine do!
And while you are here, check out ForkToSpoon’s NEW YouTube Channel
An excellent Air Fryer Dinner Recipe for the entire family!
Easy Ways To Clean Up Your Air Fryer
Two affordable options will work well if you’re looking for easy cleanup.
PARCHMENT PAPER ROUNDS
No matter what air fryer you own, these will quickly line your basket and make it quick to get on to the next dish. These parchment paper rounds come in many different sizes. To fit anything from the Ninja Dual Basket to your large Instant Pot Omni, check out Amazon for the many sizes and shapes available.
I often make these when I use the air fryer for many dishes in a meal; whether I am making the Air Fryer Asparagus and then making my Air Fryer Lamb Chops, it makes dinner a breeze.
SILICONE LINERS
One of my favorite Air Fryer Products in the last couple of years is available in many sizes, including square, round, and mini. Check out your model on Amazon, and then order accordingly.
These are washable and so easy to use.
A Few Freebies
These are always worth sharing.
I recommend saving one copy on your phone and printing out another one. You can even buy these magnets to hang the charts on your refrigerator! So convenient!
Easy Air Fryer Dinner Recipes
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: Enjoy crispy and tender chicken tenders by coating them in seasoned breadcrumbs and air frying them until golden brown. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a satisfying meal.
Air Fryer Salmon Fillets: Season salmon fillets with herbs and lemon, then air fry until they’re flaky and succulent. It’s a quick and healthy dinner option.
Air Fryer Vegetarian Spring Rolls: Make crispy vegetarian spring rolls stuffed with fresh veggies and tofu, then air fry until golden and crunchy. Serve with a sweet chili dipping sauce for a delightful appetizer or main course.
Air Fryer BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Cook tender pulled pork with your favorite barbecue sauce in the air fryer. Pile it on buns with coleslaw for a classic and satisfying sandwich.
Air Fryer Shrimp Scampi: Sauté shrimp with garlic, butter, lemon juice, and parsley, then air fry them for a quick and flavorful seafood dinner.
Air Fryer Vegetable Stir-Fry: Create a healthy and colorful vegetable stir-fry by tossing your favorite veggies with a savory sauce, then air frying until they’re tender-crisp.
Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli: Make a flavorful beef and broccoli stir-fry with tender beef slices, broccoli florets, and a savory sauce, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer.
Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers: Fill bell peppers with a delicious mixture of ground meat, rice, and veggies, then air fry until they’re tender and the filling is cooked through.
Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan: Enjoy a healthier version of classic Eggplant Parmesan by coating eggplant slices in breadcrumbs and cheese, then air frying them to crispy perfection before topping with marinara sauce and mozzarella.
Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: Transform cauliflower florets into spicy and tangy buffalo bites by coating them in a batter, air frying, and tossing in buffalo sauce. Serve with ranch dressing for a perfect appetizer or snack.
Air Fryer Pork Chops: Season pork chops with your favorite spices, then air-fried until they’re juicy and tender. It’s a quick and simple dinner option.
Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a flavorful appetizer by filling mushroom caps with cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then air frying until hot and golden.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: Make crispy and healthier sweet potato fries by seasoning and air frying sweet potato slices until golden brown and delicious.
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken: Cook bite-sized chicken pieces in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce until they’re caramelized and irresistible. Serve over rice for a complete meal.
Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp: Dip shrimp in a coconut batter, air fry them until they’re crispy and golden, and serve with a fruity dipping sauce for a taste of the tropics.
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes: Achieve perfectly fluffy and crispy baked potatoes by air frying them until the skins are crisp and the insides are tender.
Air Fryer Meatballs: Make flavorful meatballs by air frying ground meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings until browned and cooked. Serve with marinara sauce and pasta for a classic dish.
Air Fryer Tofu and Vegetable Skewers: Thread marinated tofu and veggies onto skewers, then air-fried until charred and tender. Serve with rice and your favorite dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Quesadillas: Assemble chicken, cheese, and your choice of fillings between tortillas, then air fry until they’re crispy and the cheese is melted. Serve with salsa and sour cream.
Air Fryer Beef Tacos: Cook seasoned ground beef in the air fryer until it’s browned and flavorful, then fill taco shells with the beef and your favorite toppings for a quick and tasty dinner.
These Air Fryer dinner recipes offer a variety of flavors and options for a delicious and hassle-free mealtime. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, chicken, beef, or vegetarian dishes, your air fryer can help you create a wide range of satisfying dinners.
Pro Tips For Making Dinner In Air Fryer
Cooking dinner in an air fryer can be a game-changer regarding convenience and flavor. Here are some pro tips to help you make the most of your air fryer for dinner:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Just like with an oven, preheating your air fryer can greatly affect cooking times and results. Most recipes benefit from a preheated air fryer for even and consistent cooking.
- Use Cooking Spray Sparingly: While some recipes may call for a light coat of cooking spray on the food, be mindful not to overdo it, as excess oil can lead to sogginess. A little goes a long way.
- Arrange Food in a Single Layer: For optimal air circulation and even cooking, arrange your food items in a single layer without overcrowding the basket. If needed, cook in batches for the best results.
- Flip or Shake Halfway Through: To ensure both sides of your food are evenly cooked and crispy, flip or shake the basket halfway through the cooking time. This is particularly important for items like fries or chicken wings.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep a close eye on your food as it cooks, especially the first time you try a new recipe. Air fryers vary in wattage and performance, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking or undercooking meat, use a meat thermometer to check for the desired internal temperature. This is especially important for poultry and pork.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. If you’re making a large batch of food, consider using an accessory like an air fryer rack or layering basket to maximize space.
- Season Generously: Season your food generously with your favorite herbs and spices. The air fryer can enhance flavors, so don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings.
- Add Moisture When Necessary: For foods that tend to dry out in the air fryer, such as chicken breasts, consider adding a small amount of broth or marinade to keep them moist.
- Clean the Air Fryer Regularly: Clean your air fryer after each use to maintain optimal performance and prevent smoking or odors. Many parts, like the basket and tray, are dishwasher-safe.
- Experiment and Have Fun: The air fryer is incredibly versatile, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and recipes. From classic favorites to creative new dishes, the possibilities are endless.
- Use Accessories: Explore the world of air fryer accessories like skewers, racks, and silicone molds to expand your cooking repertoire. These accessories can help you make kebabs, roast vegetables, or even bake desserts.
By following these pro tips, you’ll become a master of cooking dinner in your air fryer, achieving delicious, crispy, and evenly-cooked results with each meal. Enjoy the convenience and flavor of air-fried dinners in your kitchen!
Faq’s
What can I cook in an air fryer for dinner? You can cook various dinner dishes in an air fryer, including chicken, fish, seafood, vegetables, potatoes, tofu, and desserts like pastries. The possibilities are extensive, and you can adapt many recipes for the air fryer.
How do I preheat my air fryer for dinner recipes? Preheating an air fryer is simple. Set the desired cooking temperature and allow the air fryer to run for 3-5 minutes before placing your food inside. This ensures even cooking from the start.
Can I use aluminum foil or parchment paper in the air fryer? You can use aluminum foil or parchment paper in the air fryer to line the basket or wrap certain foods. Just ensure it doesn’t block the air circulation and leaves enough space for the hot air to flow.
How do I prevent food from sticking to the air fryer basket or tray? Lightly greasing the basket or tray with cooking spray or a small amount of oil can help prevent food from sticking. Alternatively, you can use parchment paper or silicone mats for easier cleanup.
How do I know when my food is done cooking in the air fryer? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of meats, poultry, and seafood. Additionally, visually check for the desired level of browning and crispiness on the outside of your food. Cooking times may vary, so adjust as needed.
Can I cook frozen food directly in the air fryer? Yes, you can cook many frozen foods in the air fryer. Adjust the cooking time and temperature according to the manufacturer’s instructions or your recipe.
Can I stack or layer food in the air fryer basket? While it’s best to arrange food in a single layer for even cooking, you can use accessories like racks or skewers to stack or layer certain foods. Be cautious not to overcrowd the basket, which may affect cooking results.
How do I clean my air fryer after making dinner? Most air fryer parts, such as the basket, tray, and accessories, are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. Wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer with a damp cloth or sponge. Ensure it’s completely dry before use to avoid any moisture-related issues.
Can I reheat leftovers in the air fryer? Yes, the air fryer is an excellent tool for reheating leftovers. It can reheat food, maintaining its crispiness and texture better than a microwave. Use a lower temperature and shorter time than the original cooking instructions.
Are there any safety precautions I should know when using an air fryer? Follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines and instructions. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer, which can lead to uneven cooking. Be cautious when handling hot trays and baskets, and ensure the air fryer is placed on a heat-resistant surface with proper ventilation.
