Top 27 Basic Air Fryer Recipes [NOT TO MISS]

In recent years, the air fryer has taken the culinary world by storm, revolutionizing the way we cook and enjoy our favorite dishes. This versatile kitchen appliance has gained immense popularity due to its ability to produce crispy and delicious results with significantly less oil than traditional deep frying methods. As we embark on a journey to explore the world of air frying, we will delve into the fundamentals of basic air fryer recipes, unveiling a treasure trove of flavors and textures that can be achieved effortlessly.

Top 27 Basic Air Fryer Recipes

1. Crispy Chicken Wings

Ingredients:

• Chicken wings
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken wings with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Sprinkle paprika for an extra kick.
3. Place the wings in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
4. Spray with olive oil.
5. Air fry at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.

2. Perfectly Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients:

• Assorted vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, etc.)
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Herbs (rosemary, thyme, or your preference)

Instructions:

1. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs.
2. Arrange them evenly in the air fryer basket.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally.

3. Crispy French Fries

Ingredients:

• Potatoes (russet or your choice)
• Olive oil
• Salt

Instructions:

1. Cut the potatoes into fries and soak in cold water for 30 minutes.
2. Pat dry and toss with olive oil and salt.
3. Cook in the air fryer at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

4. Juicy Air Fried Burgers

Ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Salt and pepper
• Burger buns
• Toppings of your choice

Instructions:

1. Season the ground beef with salt and pepper.
2. Shape into patties and place in the air fryer basket.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Toast the buns and assemble your burger with desired toppings.

5. Golden Brown Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

• Chicken tenders
• Flour
• Eggs
• Bread crumbs
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Dredge chicken tenders in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with bread crumbs.
2. Arrange in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
3. Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

6. Savory Garlic Shrimp

Ingredients:

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil
• Minced garlic
• Paprika
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread evenly in the air fryer basket.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

7. Cheesy Air Fryer Quesadillas

Ingredients:

• Flour tortillas
• Shredded cheese
• Cooked chicken or veggies (optional)
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Place a tortilla in the air fryer, add cheese and desired fillings, and top with another tortilla.
2. Brush with olive oil.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden.

8. Homemade Crispy Egg Rolls

Ingredients:

• Egg roll wrappers
• Shredded cabbage
• Carrots, julienned
• Ground pork or chicken
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Mix shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, cooked meat, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Place the mixture in egg roll wrappers and seal.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway.

9. Air Fryer Steak With Herb Butter

Ingredients:

• Steak (ribeye, sirloin, or your choice)
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
• Butter

Instructions:

1. Season the steak with salt and pepper, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with fresh herbs.
2. Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
3. Top with a pat of herb butter while resting.

10. Sweet And Spicy Air Fried Chicken Drumsticks

Ingredients:

• Chicken drumsticks
• Honey
• Sriracha
• Soy sauce
• Garlic powder
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix honey, sriracha, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
2. Coat chicken drumsticks with the sauce.
3. Air fry at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, turning and basting with sauce halfway.

11. Air Fried Avocado Fries

Ingredients:

• Avocados, sliced
• Flour
• Eggs
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Dredge avocado slices in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
2. Arrange in the air fryer basket without crowding.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

12. Mouthwatering Lemon Pepper Salmon

Ingredients:

• Salmon fillets
• Lemon zest
• Black pepper
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Rub salmon fillets with lemon zest, black pepper, and olive oil.
2. Place in the air fryer basket.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon is flaky.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

13. Air Fryer Calamari Rings

Ingredients:

• Calamari rings, cleaned
• Flour
• Eggs
• Bread crumbs
• Salt and pepper
• Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. Dredge calamari rings in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with bread crumbs.
2. Arrange in the air fryer basket without crowding.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
4. Serve with marinara sauce.

14. Classic Air Fried Onion Rings

Ingredients:

• Onion rings, sliced
• Flour
• Buttermilk
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Dip onion rings in flour, buttermilk, and seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
2. Place in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

15. Crunchy Coconut Shrimp

Ingredients:

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Flour
• Eggs
• Shredded coconut
• Salt and pepper
• Sweet chili sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. Dredge shrimp in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with shredded coconut.
2. Arrange in the air fryer basket without crowding.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway.
4. Serve with sweet chili sauce.

16. Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts With Balsamic Glaze

Ingredients:

• Brussel sprouts, halved
• Olive oil
• Balsamic glaze
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss Brussel sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Arrange them in the air fryer basket.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally.
4. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

17. Quick And Easy Air Fryer Pita Chips

Ingredients:

• Pita bread, cut into wedges
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt

Instructions:

1. Toss pita wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
2. Arrange in the air fryer basket without crowding.
3. Air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally.

18. Deliciously Crispy Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients:

• Mozzarella sticks
• Flour
• Eggs
• Italian breadcrumbs
• Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. Dredge mozzarella sticks in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with Italian breadcrumbs.
2. Arrange in the air fryer basket without crowding.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
4. Serve with marinara sauce.

19. Air Fried Stuffed Mushrooms

Ingredients:

• Mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed
• Cream cheese
• Garlic, minced
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Bread crumbs
• Fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Mix cream cheese, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and bread crumbs.
2. Stuff mushrooms with the mixture and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
3. Arrange in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, until mushrooms are tender.

20. Homemade Air Fryer Corn Dogs

Ingredients:

• Hot dogs
• Cornmeal batter
• Flour
• Eggs
• Buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Coat hot dogs in flour.
2. Dip in cornmeal batter made with eggs and buttermilk.
3. Place in the air fryer basket without crowding.
4. Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway.

21. Air Fryer Apple Chips

Ingredients:

• Apples, thinly sliced
• Cinnamon
• Sugar

Instructions:

1. Toss apple slices with cinnamon and sugar.
2. Arrange in the air fryer basket without crowding.
3. Air fry at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally.

22. Succulent Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Ingredients:

• Chicken thighs or breasts
• Teriyaki sauce
• Garlic, minced
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Mix teriyaki sauce, minced garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
2. Coat chicken with the sauce.
3. Place in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

23. Light And Airy Banana Fritters

Ingredients:

• Ripe bananas, mashed
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Milk
• Cinnamon
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Mix mashed bananas, flour, baking powder, milk, and cinnamon.
2. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the air fryer basket.
3. Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, until golden.
4. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

24. Air Fried Stuffed Bell Peppers

Ingredients:

• Bell peppers, halved
• Ground beef or turkey
• Rice
• Tomato sauce
• Onion, diced
• Cheese for topping

Instructions:

1. Cook ground meat and mix with cooked rice, tomato sauce, and diced onion.
2. Stuff bell peppers with the mixture and top with cheese.
3. Arrange in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, until peppers are tender.

25. Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Asparagus

Ingredients:

• Asparagus spears
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss asparagus with olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
2. Arrange in the air fryer basket.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

26. Air Fryer Blueberry Muffins

Ingredients:

• Blueberry muffin batter
• Muffin liners

Instructions:

1. Fill muffin liners with blueberry muffin batter.
2. Place in the air fryer basket without crowding.
3. Air fry at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

27. Tasty Air Fried Tofu Nuggets

Ingredients:

• Extra-firm tofu, cubed
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch
• Garlic powder
• Dipping sauce of your choice

Instructions:

1. Toss tofu cubes with soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and garlic powder.
2. Arrange in the air fryer basket without crowding.
3. Air fry at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
4. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

The world of basic air fryer recipes is undoubtedly vast and diverse, offering a multitude of options for creating delicious, crispy, and healthier meals. From classic favorites like crispy chicken wings and perfectly roasted vegetables to innovative dishes like air-fried avocado fries and teriyaki chicken, the air fryer has proven to be a game-changer in the kitchen.

As we conclude our exploration, it's clear that the air fryer is more than just a trendy appliance—it's a tool that empowers home cooks to elevate their culinary creations. With a little creativity and the right combination of ingredients, the air fryer opens up a world of possibilities for preparing meals that are both satisfying and guilt-free.

So, whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, the basic air fryer recipes provided here serve as a foundation for your culinary adventures. Experiment, customize, and savor the joy of cooking with this revolutionary kitchen companion. Happy air frying!

Top 10 Global Flavors

In recent years, the air fryer has taken the culinary world by storm, revolutionizing the way we cook by offering a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying. This kitchen marvel uses hot air circulation to crisp up food, producing dishes with a delightful crunch without the excessive use of oil.

1. Classic American BBQ Chicken Wings

Start your air fryer adventure with a bang by indulging in the timeless flavor of classic American BBQ chicken wings. Marinate your wings in a smoky barbecue sauce, then air fry them to perfection. The result? Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with the rich flavors of barbecue.

2. Mouthwatering Mediterranean Falafel

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with a simple yet delicious falafel recipe. Using chickpeas, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices, mold these bite-sized delights and let your air fryer transform them into golden-brown perfection. Serve with a tangy tzatziki sauce for an authentic experience.

3. Savory Asian Sesame Shrimp

Take a trip to Asia with a delightful dish of sesame shrimp. Coat succulent shrimp in a flavorful sesame marinade, then let the air fryer work its magic. The result is an irresistible combination of crispy crust and tender shrimp, making it an instant favorite for any seafood lover.

4. Spicy Mexican Street Corn

Elevate your air fryer game with a zesty take on Mexican street corn. Slather corn on the cob with a spicy mayo mixture, then air fry until charred and golden. Finish it off with a sprinkle of cotija cheese and a dash of lime for a side dish that’s perfect for any fiesta.

5. Indian-Inspired Tandoori Chicken

Bring the vibrant flavors of India to your kitchen with tandoori chicken cooked in the air fryer. Marinate chicken pieces in a yogurt-based blend of aromatic spices, then air fry until the exterior reaches a tantalizing crispiness. Serve with naan bread and mint chutney for a true taste of Indian cuisine.

6. Italian Parmesan-Crusted Eggplant

Give your air fryer an Italian twist with Parmesan-crusted eggplant. Coat slices of eggplant with a savory Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, then air fry until golden brown. The result is a crispy, cheesy exterior that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce for a satisfying Italian-inspired dish.

7. French-Inspired Herb-Crusted Salmon

Indulge in the elegance of French cuisine with herb-crusted salmon. Create a herb-infused crust using fresh herbs, breadcrumbs, and a touch of Dijon mustard, then let the air fryer transform your salmon into a perfectly cooked masterpiece. This dish is not only delicious but also a healthy choice rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

8. Spanish Patatas Bravas

Savor the bold flavors of Spain with patatas bravas. Cubes of potatoes are air-fried until crispy, then topped with a smoky paprika tomato sauce and a drizzle of garlic aioli. This tapas-style dish is a crowd-pleaser and brings the taste of Spanish street food to your home.

9. Thai-Inspired Crispy Tofu

For a plant-based option that doesn’t compromise on flavor, try Thai-inspired crispy tofu in the air fryer. Toss tofu cubes in a sweet and spicy Thai sauce, then air fry until golden and crunchy. This dish is perfect for those looking to explore the diverse world of vegetarian air fryer recipes.

10. Japanese Panko-Crusted Chicken Katsu

Wrap up your global flavor tour with a Japanese favorite – chicken katsu. Coat chicken cutlets in panko breadcrumbs, air fry until golden and crispy, and serve with a side of tangy tonkatsu sauce. This dish combines the satisfying crunch of fried chicken with the convenience of air frying.

My Favourite Air Fryer Recipe

As an avid air fryer enthusiast, I have discovered my absolute favorite recipe that never fails to impress: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   • Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.

2. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:

   • In a bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well coated.

3. Air Fry:

   • Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

4. Cook to Perfection:

   • Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure all sides get crispy and golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once done, transfer the crispy garlic Parmesan Brussels sprouts to a serving dish and garnish with additional Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and relish the irresistible combination of crispy exteriors and tender interiors.

This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, showcasing the versatility and efficiency of the air fryer. The Brussels sprouts turn out perfectly cooked with a delightful crunch, and the garlic Parmesan combination adds an extra layer of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Tips And Tricks For Successful Air Fryer Cooking

Mastering the art of air fryer cooking requires a blend of technique and understanding. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure success in every air fryer culinary endeavor:

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer

• Just like an oven, preheating the air fryer ensures that your food starts cooking immediately, resulting in a crispier exterior.

2. Use The Right Amount Of Oil

• While the air fryer requires significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, a light coating on your ingredients can enhance crispiness and flavor. Consider using an oil sprayer for even distribution.

3. Avoid Overcrowding

• To achieve optimal results, ensure that there is ample space between your ingredients in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.

4. Shake The Basket

• Midway through the cooking process, shake the air fryer basket to ensure all sides of your food receive equal heat. This simple step contributes to an even and crispy finish.

5. Experiment With Seasonings

• Don’t shy away from experimenting with different herbs, spices, and marinades. The air fryer is an excellent tool for infusing flavors into your dishes, so get creative with your seasonings.

6. Parchment Paper Or Basket Liners

• To make cleanup a breeze, consider using parchment paper or air fryer basket liners. These accessories prevent sticking and simplify the post-cooking cleanup process.

7. Adjust Cooking Times And Temperatures

• Different air fryers may have variations in cooking times and temperatures. Be attentive to your specific model and make adjustments accordingly to achieve the desired results.

8. Prevent Dryness With A Water Spray

• For recipes that require longer cooking times, prevent dryness by spraying a mist of water onto your food before or during the cooking process. This helps maintain moisture without sacrificing crispiness.

9. Invest In Accessories

• Explore additional air fryer accessories like racks, skewers, and silicone molds to expand your cooking capabilities and create a wider range of recipes.

10. Keep An Eye On Size And Thickness

• Consider the size and thickness of your ingredients when air frying. Thicker cuts may require longer cooking times, while smaller items may cook more quickly.

Time-Saving Strategies For Busy Cooks

For those with a hectic schedule, the air fryer proves to be a valuable ally in the kitchen. Here are some time-saving strategies to streamline your cooking process:

1. Batch Cooking

• Prepare larger quantities of your favorite air fryer recipes and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for quick and easy reheating throughout the week.

2. Prep Ingredients In Advance

• Spend some time on the weekend washing, chopping, and marinating ingredients. Store them in portioned containers so that assembling meals in the air fryer becomes a swift process during the busy weekdays.

3. Multi-Level Cooking

• Take advantage of air fryer accessories like racks to cook multiple items simultaneously. This allows you to prepare a complete meal with various components in one go.

4. Utilize Frozen Ingredients

• Many frozen foods, from vegetables to pre-marinated proteins, cook exceptionally well in the air fryer. Keep a stock of frozen items for convenient last-minute meals.

5. Quick Marinades

• Opt for quick marinades that infuse flavor without the need for extended marinating time. Acidic ingredients like vinegar and citrus can speed up the flavor infusion process.

6. One-Pot Wonders

• Create fuss-free meals by combining ingredients in one pot or basket. This not only reduces cooking time but also minimizes cleanup efforts.

7. Pre-Seasoned Ingredients

• Save time on seasoning by choosing pre-marinated or pre-seasoned ingredients. This eliminates the need for extensive preparation and ensures a burst of flavor in every bite.

8. Use Cooking Presets

• Familiarize yourself with the cooking presets on your air fryer. These presets are designed to simplify the cooking process for specific dishes, providing optimal time and temperature settings.

9. Plan Your Menu

• Plan your weekly menu in advance, incorporating air fryer recipes strategically. This not only saves time but also allows for efficient use of ingredients.

10. Clean As You Go

• To minimize post-cooking cleanup, clean the air fryer basket and accessories immediately after use. This ensures that your air fryer is always ready for action, even during busy days.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the air fryer opens up a world of possibilities for both novice and experienced cooks. From classic American BBQ to exotic global flavors, the air fryer’s versatility allows you to explore a myriad of recipes with ease. Armed with the right tips, tricks, and time-saving strategies, you can harness the full potential of your air fryer, creating delicious and wholesome meals for yourself and your loved ones. Embrace the convenience, health benefits, and culinary innovation that the air fryer brings to your kitchen, making every cooking adventure a delightful experience.