Well, I guess a meal with melty cheese, a balsamic drizzle, and a mile-high stack of golden crispy little somethings is at least a step in the right direction, right?
These are trying times, and cooking dinner feels like it requires monumental effort, physically and mentally and dishes-ly. Easy, minimal, and delicious is the three-way target I’m looking to land on.
Let me give you a brain break. Let me present an idea that feels about 10x more fancy than it actually is. It is called an air fryer dinner.
1. Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Source: Platedcravings.com
Okay, can we just talk about these chicken tenders? They are a total crowd-pleaser.
We’re talking chicken marinated in creamy buttermilk and then coated in breadcrumbs. I can promise you this recipe is about to become a household staple.
And the secret here is a KFC-inspired spice mix that takes these tenders to a completely different universe of yum. Honestly, why even think about fast food when you can make something this amazing at home?
2. Air Fryer Turkey Tacos
Source: Mommyhatescooking.com
These turkey tacos are one of those recipes that the whole family is going to be obsessed with. And they are SO customizable!
There’s just nothing quite like a fun taco night to get everyone excited. After you load up the tacos just how everyone likes them, you just pop them in the air fryer to get that cheese all melty.
The crunch is just unbelievable and will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!
3. Air Fryer Meatloaf
Source: Mylifecookbook.com
As far as air fryer recipes with ground beef go, meatloaf is always a home run. This keto-friendly version is a lifesaver for anyone at the table with carb restrictions.
It’s made with a meatloaf mix, parmesan, and bacon, so you know it’s high in protein and flavor, but low in carbs and sugar. And don’t you worry about anyone who isn’t doing keto!
This meatloaf is so incredibly good that everyone is going to love it.
4. Air Fryer Pork Chops
Source: Sweetandsavorymeals.com
The best thing about using the air fryer for most recipes is that unbelievable crispiness you get every single time. And these pork chops are no exception.
They come out so juicy inside and perfectly crispy outside. You’ll also coat them in breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese for that extra little bit of crunch.
If you’re feeling a little extra, don’t be afraid to go wild with more seasoning for some added spice.
5. Air Fryer Hamburgers
Source: Wellplated.com
I know what you might be thinking. Hamburgers in the air fryer? No way. But it’s true!
Your air fryer just might be the secret to the juiciest, most flavorful burgers you’ve ever made. It is absolutely one of the easiest ways to cook them, that’s for sure! You’ll have to see for yourself if it’s also the tastiest. (Spoiler: it is!)
Now all you need is a fantastic air fryer side dish to go with them!
6. Air Fryer Pepperoni Cheese Pizza
Source: Foodtasticmom.com
I was in total shock when I found out you can make the most delicious pizza ever in the air fryer! This dish is surprisingly low-calorie, which makes it an ideal light dinner.
With just 200 calories in each pizza, you can enjoy this cheesy goodness completely guilt-free. I definitely recommend making this pizza your own by adding some extra toppings like olives, bacon, or a handful of fresh herbs.
7. Air Fryer Chicken Breast
Source: Apinchofhealthy.com
An air fryer is basically a magic wand since it cooks so much faster than a regular oven. Just look at this amazing chicken breast recipe, for example.
It only takes 20 minutes to whip up and is perfect for a super quick meal. This chicken recipe is so yummy and loaded up with spices I bet you already have in your pantry right now.
Just throw a couple of sides with the dish, and dinner is served!
8. Air Fryer Arancini (Rice Balls)
Source: Mycookingjourney.com
These arancini rice balls are never greasy and are always so, so satisfying. You’ll make this classic Italian dish with some leftover rice or risotto and just a few other things.
You can get really creative with this one and toss in any veggies you have that are on their last leg. Go for it and make this recipe all your own!
9. Air Fryer Baked Potato
Source: Apinchofhealthy.com
Air fryer baked potatoes are one of my all-time favorite easy dinners.
They are an amazing side dish but also work as a hearty main course. Especially if you stuff them with yummy things like BBQ, cheese, and green onions.
Just coat your potatoes in cooking spray, sprinkle on some sea salt and garlic powder, and pop them in the fryer. They’ll be all ready to go in about 40 minutes!
10. Air Fryer Fried Rice
Source: Vegetarianmamma.com
If you’re anything like me and you always find yourself with way too much leftover rice, this recipe is for you. Grab that rice and make some absolutely restaurant-quality fried rice in your air fryer.
This recipe is super convenient because it calls for frozen veggies instead of fresh ones. Plus, you can totally change up the flavors and ingredients to your own taste.
Why not add a protein like shrimp or calamari for some extra deliciousness?
11. Air Fryer Turkey Croquettes
Source: Thisoldgal.com
Wondering what to do with all that leftover turkey? You should definitely try out these amazing air fryer turkey croquettes.
This dish is pretty much Thanksgiving rolled into a ball since it’s made with turkey and stuffing. Just dip these little croquettes into some cranberry sauce or gravy for the ultimate leftover meal.
12. Air Fryer Grilled Cheese
Source: Airfried.com
There are very few things as comforting as a fresh grilled cheese sandwich. The best ones are always crispy on the outside and packed with ooey-gooey cheese inside.
This one, though, has a little something extra. Instead of American or cheddar, you’re going to use pimento cheese. It adds a whole new layer of flavor to an already perfect dish.
13. Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Source: Momsdish.com
This coconut shrimp recipe is restaurant-level amazing at just a tiny fraction of the price.
My pro tip is to keep an eye out for a good sale on frozen shrimp and just keep it in your freezer until you’re ready to make these. Just defrost, season, and bread the shrimp, then toss them in the air fryer. Could it be any easier?
Plus, it’s packed with coconut flavor and a wonderful crunchy texture.
14. Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Source: Myforkinglife.com
Say goodbye to takeout and hello to your new favorite meal! If there’s one thing I can’t get enough of, it’s this air fryer fried chicken.
It’s basically a spin on a classic Southern recipe, and it’s so good you’ll be licking the bone clean. The air fryer takes this dish to a whole new level of crispiness.
Pro Tip: Marinate the chicken before you cook it to get the most flavor possible.
15. Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes
Source: Apinchofhealthy.com
I am in love with all kinds of air-fried vegetables. But potatoes will always be my number one.
This recipe strikes that perfect balance of garlic and herbs with a few other spices. If you want a super soft and fluffy inside, boil the potatoes for a bit before you toss them into the air fryer.
16. Air Fryer Spanish Spicy Potatoes (Patatas Bravas)
Source: Recipethis.com
Thanks to the air fryer, these potatoes are even more golden and delicious than ever. Instead of oven-roasting or frying your potatoes, using the air fryer takes just a fraction of the time and they never turn out greasy.
And don’t forget to make the iconic bravas dipping sauce to really pull this whole meal together.
17. Air Fryer Steak
Source: Everythingairfryer.com
You can just never go wrong with a thick, juicy steak for dinner. Kids love it, adults love it; it’s a meal that pretty much everyone adores.
And by cooking it up in the air fryer, you can make it a quick and easy weeknight meal. Just make sure you check the notes in the recipe to get that perfect level of doneness for your steak.
18. Air Fryer Chicken Chimichangas
Source: Skinnytaste.com
These chimichangas use whole wheat tortillas and leftover rotisserie chicken for such a satisfying dinner. They are loaded up with fresh pico de gallo, pepperjack cheese, and sour cream.
This dish is so filling it might just put you into a food coma. Once you’re done putting them together, just put the chimichangas into the air fryer for that amazing extra crispiness.
19. Air Fryer Pork Roast
Source: Hintofhealthy.com
While your side dishes are cooking away in the oven, it’s the perfect time to let the air fryer make this yummy pork roast.
Just oil that roast up, season it perfectly, and pop it into the air fryer. Is there a simpler recipe out there? I really doubt it.
Just a heads up! Depending on how big your piece of pork is, it could take up to an hour to fully roast.
20. Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos
Source: Gimmedelicious.com
These chicken taquitos are the perfect dinner for game day or just for when you have friends over. It’s really hard to mess up a dish that’s filled with so much creamy and cheesy goodness.
This spicy chicken mixture is just total perfection and is so much better than buying the frozen kind. It’s also the absolute best way to use up leftover chicken from last night’s dinner!
21. Air Fryer Fish Tacos
Source: Foodtasticmom.com
For a dinner treat you will not forget, you have to pair these vibrant air fryer fish tacos with a citrus salsa and a spicy chipotle mayo.
And please, whip up some fresh guacamole to spread on top. It’s just a must.
The recipe suggests using a white fish fillet, but feel free to switch it up with salmon or even some shrimp if that’s what you’re feeling!
22. Air Fryer Nashville Hot Chicken
Okay, let’s talk about Nashville hot chicken. If you’re already familiar, you know. And if you’re not? You’re in for such a treat either way!
This recipe is basically a perfect copycat of all the best versions out there. We’re talking juicy, tender chicken with super crisp skin and a massive amount of heat and flavor.
And that little bit of tanginess from the pickle juice? Ugh. It’s just SO GOOD.
23. Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Source: Platedcravings.com
Thanks to the magic of the air fryer, these are guaranteed to be some of the most delicious chicken wings you’ve ever had! I mean, who needs all that excess fat and oil from deep frying?
Say hello to an even crispier, even crunchier alternative that will make you forget the deep fryer ever existed. It’s a total win.
24. Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich
Source: Staysnatched.com
This totally mouthwatering Chick-fil-A copycat is unbelievably easy to make.
You’ll let the chicken hang out in some pickle juice and buttermilk to get it so juicy and tender. Then, the breading gets loaded up with paprika, garlic, and cayenne for that perfect amount of heat.
But do you want to know the absolute best part of this whole thing? It’s 100% oil-free! Who needs the extra calories from fast food when your air fryer delivers that same crispy crunch?
25. Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Source: Diethood.com
Just look at this picture-perfect recipe! It’s absolutely oozing with deliciousness. I can promise you, the second these come out of the air fryer, they will be gone in a flash.
These little buffalo cauliflower bites are low-carb, keto-friendly, and just so surprisingly healthy.
Think of it as a vegan option for buffalo wings; you still get all that amazing spice and kick, but without the extra calories. And please, don’t be shy with your favorite BBQ or hot sauce!