Top 27 Indian Air Fryer Recipes [NOT TO MISS]

In recent years, air fryers have become a staple appliance in kitchens around the world, offering a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying methods. These versatile gadgets use hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in crispy, delicious meals with significantly less oil. While air fryers are commonly used for preparing western-style dishes, they are also perfect for creating flavorful Indian recipes. In this article, we’ll explore a collection of 27 tantalizing Indian air fryer recipes that capture the essence of traditional Indian cuisine while promoting healthier eating habits. From crispy samosas to succulent tandoori chicken, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for authentic Indian flavors.

Top 27 Indian Air Fryer Recipes

1. Air Fryer Samosas

Samosas are a beloved Indian snack, featuring a crispy pastry filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. With an air fryer, you can achieve the same crunchy exterior without the need for deep frying. Simply brush the samosas with a little oil before air frying to achieve a golden brown finish.

2. Tandoori Chicken

Tandoori chicken is a classic Indian dish known for its vibrant red color and bold flavors. Marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices, then air fried to perfection, this dish retains its juicy tenderness while developing a delicious charred exterior reminiscent of the traditional clay oven.

3. Vegetable Pakoras

Pakoras are delightful Indian fritters made by batter-coating vegetables and deep frying them. However, with an air fryer, you can enjoy these crispy delights with significantly less oil. Simply coat your favorite vegetables in a spiced chickpea flour batter and air fry until golden brown and crispy.

4. Chicken Tikka

Chicken tikka is another popular Indian dish that lends itself well to air frying. Marinate chunks of chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices, then thread them onto skewers and air fry until cooked through and slightly charred. Serve with mint chutney for a burst of freshness.

5. Aloo Tikki

Aloo tikki, or potato patties, are a flavorful street food found across India. These crispy, golden-brown patties are made from mashed potatoes mixed with spices and herbs. By air frying instead of deep frying, you can enjoy a healthier version of this beloved snack without sacrificing flavor or texture.

6. Paneer Tikka

Paneer tikka is a vegetarian variation of the classic chicken tikka, featuring cubes of Indian cottage cheese marinated in yogurt and spices. Air frying the paneer results in a delightful contrast of textures, with a crispy exterior giving way to a soft, creamy interior bursting with flavor.

7. Masala Papad

Masala papad is a popular appetizer in Indian cuisine, featuring a crispy papadum topped with a spicy mixture of onions, tomatoes, and herbs. By air frying the papadum instead of deep frying it, you can achieve the same satisfying crunch with less oil, making it a healthier option for snacking.

8. Bhindi Fry

Bhindi fry, or crispy okra, is a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with Indian meals. By tossing sliced okra in a mixture of spices and breadcrumbs before air frying, you can achieve a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil, allowing the natural flavors of the okra to shine through.

9. Fish Amritsari

Fish Amritsari is a popular street food from the city of Amritsar in northern India. This dish features fish fillets marinated in a spicy batter and deep fried until crispy. With an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy texture with less oil, making it a healthier option for enjoying this flavorful dish at home.

10. Chicken Pakoras

Chicken pakoras are a mouthwatering snack made by coating bite-sized pieces of chicken in a spiced chickpea flour batter and deep frying until golden brown and crispy. By air frying instead of deep frying, you can enjoy these delicious morsels with significantly less oil, making them a guilt-free indulgence.

11. Air Fryer Naan

Naan is a popular Indian flatbread that pairs perfectly with curries and other Indian dishes. With an air fryer, you can achieve the same soft, pillowy texture and slightly charred exterior as traditional tandoor-baked naan, making it the perfect accompaniment to your favorite Indian meals.

12. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a versatile dish that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from spiced rice and vegetables to minced meat and cheese. By air frying the stuffed peppers, you can achieve a deliciously charred exterior while ensuring that the filling is cooked through and tender.

13. Air Fryer Bhajis

Bhajis are Indian fritters made from gram flour and vegetables such as onions, spinach, or potatoes. By air frying instead of deep frying, you can achieve a crispy texture with less oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried bhajis without sacrificing flavor.

14. Gobi Manchurian

Gobi Manchurian is a popular Indo-Chinese dish featuring crispy cauliflower florets coated in a tangy, spicy sauce. By air frying the cauliflower instead of deep frying it, you can achieve a similar crispy texture with less oil, making it a healthier option for enjoying this flavorful dish at home.

15. Air Fryer Pakoras

Pakoras are a versatile Indian snack that can be made with a variety of ingredients, from vegetables to meat and seafood. By air frying instead of deep frying, you can enjoy these crispy delights with significantly less oil, making them a guilt-free indulgence for snacking or entertaining.

16. Aloo Paratha

Aloo paratha is a popular Indian flatbread stuffed with a spiced mashed potato filling. By air frying instead of cooking on a griddle, you can achieve a crispy exterior while ensuring that the filling is cooked through and piping hot, making it the perfect comfort food for any meal.

17. Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are a classic finger food enjoyed around the world, and with an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy texture without the need for deep frying. Simply toss the wings in your favorite spices and sauces before air frying for a deliciously crispy and flavorful snack or appetizer.

18. Vegetable Cutlets

Vegetable cutlets are savory patties made from mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables and spices, then coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown and crispy. By air frying instead of deep frying, you can achieve the same crunchy texture with less oil, making them a healthier option for snacking or serving as an appetizer.

19. Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Chicken nuggets are a favorite among both kids and adults, and with an air fryer, you can enjoy a healthier version of this classic fast food staple. By air frying instead of deep frying, you can achieve a crispy exterior while ensuring that the chicken remains tender and juicy on the inside.

20. Vegetable Spring Rolls

Spring rolls are a popular appetizer in Indian cuisine, featuring a crispy pastry filled with a savory mixture of vegetables and sometimes meat. By air frying instead of deep frying, you can achieve the same crunchy exterior with less oil, making them a healthier option for snacking or serving as an appetizer.

21. Air Fryer Chicken Kebabs

Chicken kebabs are a flavorful dish made by marinating chunks of chicken in a mixture of yogurt and spices, then skewering and grilling them until cooked through and slightly charred. With an air fryer, you can achieve the same delicious results without the need for an outdoor grill, making it the perfect option for enjoying grilled chicken year-round.

22. Paneer Bhurji

Paneer bhurji is a spicy Indian dish made from scrambled Indian cottage cheese (paneer) cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices. By air frying instead of cooking on a stovetop, you can achieve a deliciously charred flavor while ensuring that the paneer remains soft and creamy, making it the perfect accompaniment to rice or bread.

23. Air Fryer Bread Rolls

Bread rolls are a popular snack in Indian cuisine, featuring a crispy exterior filled with a savory mixture of vegetables, spices, and sometimes meat. By air frying instead of deep frying, you can achieve the same golden brown crust with less oil, making them a healthier option for snacking or serving as an appetizer.

24. Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks are a flavorful and economical cut of meat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. By air frying instead of deep frying, you can achieve a crispy exterior while ensuring that the meat remains tender and juicy on the inside, making them the perfect option for a quick and delicious meal.

25. Air Fryer Onion Rings

Onion rings are a classic appetizer or side dish that pairs perfectly with burgers, sandwiches, or salads. By air frying instead of deep frying, you can achieve the same crispy texture with less oil, making them a healthier option for indulging in this flavorful treat.

26. Air Fryer Fish Fillets

Fish fillets are a nutritious and versatile protein option that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. By air frying instead of deep frying, you can achieve a crispy exterior while ensuring that the fish remains moist and flaky on the inside, making it the perfect option for a quick and healthy meal.

27. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional French fries, and with an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy texture without the need for deep frying. Simply toss the sweet potato fries in a little oil and your favorite spices before air frying for a guilt-free indulgence.

Air fryers offer a convenient and healthier way to enjoy your favorite Indian dishes without sacrificing flavor or texture. From crispy samosas to succulent tandoori chicken, the possibilities are endless when it comes to Indian air fryer recipes. By experimenting with different ingredients and spices, you can create delicious and nutritious meals that are sure to impress your family and friends. So why wait? Dust off your air fryer and start cooking up a storm with these mouthwatering Indian recipes today!

Top 10 Global Flavors

Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods without sacrificing flavor or texture. In Indian cuisine, where frying is a common cooking technique, air fryers present an opportunity to indulge in beloved dishes with a fraction of the oil used in traditional methods.

1. Tandoori Chicken Wings: Marinated in a blend of yogurt, lemon juice, and spices like garam masala, cumin, and paprika, these crispy tandoori chicken wings are a favorite appetizer or party snack. Cooked to perfection in the air fryer, they retain their juicy tenderness while developing a tantalizing charred exterior.

2. Samosas: These savory pastries filled with spiced potatoes and peas are a beloved Indian snack. By using an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy texture as deep frying with significantly less oil. Simply brush the samosas with a light coating of oil before air frying until golden brown and delicious.

3. Vegetable Pakoras: Crisp and flavorful, vegetable pakoras are a popular street food in India. Made with a batter of chickpea flour and mixed vegetables like potatoes, onions, and spinach, these fritters are perfect for dipping into tangy chutneys. Air frying results in a healthier version of this classic snack without compromising on taste.

4. Paneer Tikka: Cubes of paneer cheese marinated in a spicy yogurt mixture and skewered with vegetables, paneer tikka is a mouthwatering vegetarian option. Air frying allows the paneer to develop a delicious char while remaining soft and creamy on the inside, making it an irresistible appetizer or side dish.

5. Masala French Fries: Give classic French fries an Indian twist by tossing them in a blend of chaat masala, cumin, and chili powder before air frying. The spices infuse the fries with a burst of flavor, transforming them into a spicy and addictive snack that pairs perfectly with a cooling yogurt dip.

6. Fish Amritsari: Inspired by the flavors of Amritsar, this dish features marinated fish fillets coated in a crispy gram flour batter. Air frying achieves the same crunchy texture as deep frying while keeping the fish moist and flaky on the inside. Serve with lemon wedges and mint chutney for a delightful seafood experience.

7. Bhindi (Okra) Fry: Okra slices coated in a seasoned chickpea flour mixture become wonderfully crispy when air fried. This dish makes a delicious side dish or snack, showcasing the natural flavors of the okra while adding a satisfying crunch. Serve alongside dal and rice for a complete Indian meal.

8. Aloo Tikki: These spicy potato patties are a popular street food in India, often served with chutneys and yogurt. Air frying gives them a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil, making them a healthier option for indulging in this delicious snack.

9. Chicken Tikka Masala: A quintessential dish in Indian cuisine, chicken tikka masala features tender chicken pieces cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. By air frying the chicken tikka before adding it to the sauce, you can achieve a beautifully charred exterior that enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

10. Gobi Manchurian: A fusion of Indian and Chinese flavors, Gobi Manchurian consists of crispy cauliflower florets tossed in a spicy and tangy sauce. Air frying the cauliflower ensures that it remains crispy without absorbing excess oil, resulting in a healthier version of this beloved dish.

My Favourite Air Fryer Recipe

One of my favorite Indian air fryer recipes is Vegetable Seekh Kebabs. These flavorful skewers are made with a blend of minced vegetables and spices, resulting in a delicious and satisfying appetizer or main course. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, bell peppers, and onions), finely chopped
• 1 cup paneer, grated
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons besan (gram flour)
• 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Skewers

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed vegetables, grated paneer, breadcrumbs, besan, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
2. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each portion into a long, cylindrical kebab around a skewer.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
4. Brush the kebabs with oil and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each kebab.
5. Air fry the kebabs for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with mint chutney and lemon wedges.

These vegetable seekh kebabs are packed with flavor and have the perfect combination of textures, with a crispy exterior and a soft, moist interior. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a delicious weeknight meal.

Tips And Tricks For Successful Air Fryer Cooking

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like with an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures that your food cooks evenly and achieves the desired crispiness.
2. Use a Light Coating of Oil: While air fryers require less oil than traditional frying methods, a light coating of oil can help achieve a crispy exterior on your food.
3. Avoid Overcrowding the Basket: To ensure proper air circulation and even cooking, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook food in batches if necessary.
4. Shake or Flip Food: For even cooking, shake the basket or flip the food halfway through the cooking time to ensure that all sides are evenly browned.
5. Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with seasonings and spices to add flavor to your dishes. Indian cuisine offers a wide variety of spices and herbs that can elevate your air fryer recipes.
6. Use Parchment Paper or a Silicone Mat: To prevent food from sticking to the air fryer basket, consider lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This also makes cleanup easier.
7. Adjust Cooking Times: Since air fryer models vary, it may take some trial and error to find the perfect cooking times for your favorite recipes. Keep an eye on your food and adjust cooking times as needed.

Time-Saving Strategies For Busy Cooks

1. Prep Ingredients in Advance: Spend some time on the weekend chopping vegetables, marinating meats, or preparing batters and sauces so that you can quickly assemble meals during the week.
2. Utilize Frozen Foods: Frozen vegetables, meats, and pre-made snacks can be cooked directly in the air fryer without the need for thawing, making them convenient options for busy days.
3. Invest in Accessories: Consider purchasing accessories such as additional racks, skewers, or baking pans designed for use with your air fryer to increase its versatility and cooking capacity.
4. Make One-Pot Meals: Take advantage of the air fryer’s ability to cook multiple components simultaneously by preparing one-pot meals like stir-fries, casseroles, or sheet pan dinners.
5. Clean as You Go: To minimize cleanup time, wash and dry utensils, bowls, and the air fryer basket as you cook. This prevents clutter and makes cleanup a breeze once your meal is ready.

Conclusion

Indian air fryer recipes offer a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dishes with less guilt. From crispy snacks like samosas and pakoras to flavorful mains like tandoori chicken and paneer tikka, the possibilities are endless with an air fryer. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this guide, you can achieve perfectly cooked and flavorful meals every time, making your air fryer a valuable tool in your kitchen arsenal. So go ahead, fire up your air fryer and explore the vibrant and diverse flavors of Indian cuisine from the comfort of your own home.