Ella Walter
Air fryers are a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to cook a wide range of foods, from proteins like chicken, fish, and pork to vegetables, appetizers, desserts, and baked goods. However, there are some things that you should avoid putting in your air fryer. These include:
- Battered foods: A wet batter will drip through the perforated basket and not crisp up properly.
- Cake doughnuts: The dense batter used for cake doughnuts will dry out in an air fryer.
- Large whole chickens: These will cook unevenly, with the breast meat overcooking before the thighs are safe to eat.
- Bacon: The hot air will cause the bacon fat to spray all over the inside of the machine, creating a greasy mess.
- Lots of cheese: The cheese will likely ooze out before the exterior crisps up, resulting in a drippy mess.
- Leafy greens: Light and airy greens will fly around the air fryer basket, leading to uneven cooking.
- Raw rice and other grains: These require water or broth for proper absorption and tender cooking, which an air fryer cannot provide.
- Commercial spray oils: The chemicals in these oils can damage the coating of your air fryer and release toxic chemicals into your food.
- Bread for toasting: Toasters are better suited for this task, as toasting bread in an air fryer can lead to stray crumbs that are difficult to remove.
- Popcorn: The strong current created by the heating fans can blow kernels around the machine, causing irreversible damage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Foods you can cook in an air fryer | Chicken, fish, pork, steak, vegetables, appetizers, desserts, baked goods, French fries, fried chicken, baked potatoes, steak, salmon, chicken wings, zucchini fries, chicken tenders, onion rings, tater tots, mozzarella sticks, blooming onion, jalapeño poppers, tortilla chips, potato chips, sweet potato chips, buffalo cauliflower, stuffing hushpuppies, egg rolls, falafel, zucchini fries, tofu, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, roasted potatoes, corn on the cob, carrots, baked potatoes, green beans, cauliflower, sweet potato, French fries, Brussels sprouts, butternut squash, asparagus, potato wedges, sweet potato fries, zucchini chips, mushrooms, beets, eggplant, latkes, meatloaf, fried chicken, chicken parmesan, steak, chicken breast, pork chops, tilapia, bratwurst, hamburgers, salmon, taquitos, chicken sandwich, salmon and Brussels sprouts, hot dogs, Greek chicken and potatoes, fried shrimp, pizza, meatballs, chicken drumsticks, tofu nuggets, grilled cheese, mojo pork tenderloin, scallops, fish and chips, spaghetti squash parm, turkey breast, Cornish hen, chocolate chip cookies, cinnamon rolls, donuts, honey toast, churro bites, apple cider donuts, Oreos, apple chips, beignets |
| Foods you should not cook in an air fryer | Battered foods, cake doughnuts, large whole chickens, bacon, leafy greens, raw rice and other grains, commercial spray oils, bread for toasting, sauces, loose foods, popcorn |
What You'll Learn
- You can cook proteins like chicken, fish, and pork in an air fryer
- You can cook vegetables like zucchini fries, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes
- You can cook appetizers like chicken wings and mozzarella sticks
- You can cook desserts and baked goods like cookies and donuts
- You can reheat foods like pizza and fries
You can cook proteins like chicken, fish, and pork in an air fryer
Chicken is a popular option for air frying, with chicken wings, chicken breasts, chicken drumsticks, chicken tenders, and chicken thighs all being possible. For example, you can cook Air Fryer Chicken Wings as a favourite game-day snack, or Air Fryer Chicken Breasts for an easy, perfect meal every time.
Fish is also a great option for the air fryer, with many different types of fish fillets working well. You can cook fish such as cod, tilapia, catfish, pollock, hake, haddock, salmon, mahi-mahi, halibut, flounder, and whiting. The air fryer gives the fish a crispy, crunchy exterior with a soft and moist inside. It is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, as it requires little to no oil. A fish fillet in the air fryer can be ready in as little as 12-15 minutes.
You can also cook pork in an air fryer. For example, Air Fryer Pork Chops are tender, juicy, and flavorful.
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You can cook vegetables like zucchini fries, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes
You can cook a variety of vegetables in an air fryer, including zucchini fries, Brussels sprouts, and potatoes.
Zucchini Fries
Zucchini fries are a low-carb, keto-friendly snack that can be made in an air fryer. To make them, cut the zucchini into sticks, then coat them with a mixture of flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Season the zucchini with salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Place the zucchini in the air fryer basket, spray with olive oil, and cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 7-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are another vegetable that can be cooked in an air fryer. To make crispy Brussels sprouts, trim the ends and cut any large sprouts in half. Toss the sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Potatoes
Air fryer potatoes are a quick and easy side dish that can be made in under 20 minutes. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces and season with olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and browned.
With an air fryer, you can easily cook a variety of vegetables to perfection, making it a versatile and convenient appliance to have in your kitchen.
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You can cook appetizers like chicken wings and mozzarella sticks
Air fryers are a great way to cook appetizers, and they can be healthier than deep-frying. You can make anything from chicken wings to mozzarella sticks, and even loaded pub fries.
Chicken wings are a great option for game day or a movie night. You can make lemon pepper wings, garlic parmesan wings, or even Korean-style BBQ wings. They come out just as crispy as deep-fried wings, but without the mess.
Mozzarella sticks are another crowd-pleaser. You can make them with string cheese, or fresh mozzarella. Just be sure to double-bread them so they get nice and crunchy, and the cheese doesn't ooze out.
If you're looking for something a little more elegant, try making crab cakes, scallops, or spinach and artichoke zucchini bites. These options are perfect for a dinner party or cocktail hour.
For a healthier option, try making zucchini chips, kale chips, or even avocado fries. These choices are delicious and nutritious.
So, whether you're hosting a game day or a cocktail party, air fryers are a great way to cook appetizers. They're quick, easy, and sure to impress your guests.
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You can cook desserts and baked goods like cookies and donuts
Air Fryer Cookies
Air fryers are great for making individual cookies or personal-sized ramekins of brownies. You can satisfy your craving without overheating your kitchen or making a big mess. Try these Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies, Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies, or Air Fryer Fried Cookies. For a healthier option, try these Air Fryer Healthy Cookies made with raspberries, almonds, and oats.
Air Fryer Brownies
Air fryers are perfect for making fudgy, double chocolate brownies with less prep time required. Try this Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Brownie recipe, or add a little instant coffee or espresso for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Air Fryer Donuts
Air fryers can be used to make fluffy and delicious donuts with less oil. Try this Air Fryer Donuts recipe, or top with a glaze or sugar and cinnamon for the ultimate afternoon treat.
Air Fryer Banana Bread
Air fryers can be used to make moist banana bread. This Air Fryer Banana Bread recipe includes the addition of crunchy pecans and chocolate chips, but feel free to use any nuts you prefer.
Air Fryer Apple Crumble
You can achieve golden, crumble heaven in an air fryer with this Air Fryer Bramley Apple Crumble recipe. It takes just 30 minutes to prep and cook, making it a winner for last-minute guests.
Air Fryer Lemon Drizzle Cake
Air fryers are great for making fuss-free loaf cakes, like this Air Fryer Lemon Drizzle Cake. It takes about an hour to bake, but air fryers tend to be more energy-efficient than convection ovens.
Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls
With the air fryer, even the least culinary-inclined of us can manage a bakery-worthy pastry in less than 15 minutes. Try this Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls recipe, which uses a can of crescent dough for extra convenience.
Air Fryer Muffins
You can make beautifully golden brown muffins in half the time with an air fryer. Try this Air Fryer Muffins recipe, which can be personalized with your favorites: blueberries, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
Air Fryer Cheesecake
Air fryers can even be used to make cheesecakes, like this Air Fryer Crustless Cheesecake recipe, which is low-carb and uses zero-calorie sweetener. Or try this Air Fryer Pineapple Upside-Down Cheesecake, which combines classic cheesecake with caramelized pineapple upside-down cake.
Air Fryer Chocolate Cake
Try this Air Fryer Molten Lava Cake recipe, which has a decadent, rich, gooey, and warm center with only five ingredients. Or, for a larger option, try this Giant Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookie, or "pizookie", which only takes 10 minutes in the air fryer.
Air Fryer Carrot Cake
Air fryers can be used to make a classic carrot cake, like this Air Fryer Carrot Cake recipe, which is topped with a deliciously smooth soft cheese icing and a scattering of crushed pecans for added crunch.
Air Fryer Bloomin' Apples
Try this Air Fryer Bloomin' Apples recipe, which is inspired by the ever-popular bloomin' onion. It looks fancy and complicated but is actually quite easy to make.
Air Fryer S'mores
Make these Air Fryer S'mores, which can include additions like fruit or caramel sauce. Or, for a more elaborate option, try these Air Fryer Caramel Apple S'mores, which taste like a slice of pie.
Air Fryer Churros
Skip the deep fryer with these Air Fryer Churros, which are crispy on the outside and moist and fluffy in the middle, with a touch of lemon zest.
Air Fryer Bread Pudding
Try this Air Fryer Bread Pudding recipe, which is a rich, chocolate dessert and a thrifty way to use up day-old bread.
Air Fryer Apple Crisp
This Air Fryer Apple Crisp recipe is a healthy option, with a not-too-sweet oat streusel topping tucked into a cored apple. It takes just 15 minutes for the apple to become tender and the filling to crisp up in the air fryer.
Air Fryer Chocolate Cupcakes
Try these Air Fryer Mocha Cupcakes, which pair rich chocolate cupcakes with silky mocha buttercream. Or, for a flourless option, try these Air Fryer Scottish Shortbread cookies, which are buttery and melt-in-your-mouth.
Air Fryer Danish
These Air Fryer Apple Danish treats taste just like cinnamon apple Danishes from the bakery. Canned crescent rolls stand in for the usual puff pastry, so they're a snap to roll up.
Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
While not technically a dessert, air fryers are great for making baked potatoes with crispy skins.
And more...
There are endless possibilities for what you can cook in an air fryer, from appetizers to dinner mains. Get creative and enjoy experimenting!
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You can reheat foods like pizza and fries
Air fryers are a great way to reheat foods like pizza and fries. Here's a guide on how to do it right:
Reheating Pizza in an Air Fryer:
First things first, make sure your pizza is not frozen. Frozen pizza will take longer to reheat and may not come out as crispy. Now, gather your leftover pizza slices and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You don't want the slices overlapping as this will lead to uneven heating and sogginess. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to heat the slices in batches.
Optional Step: You can place a piece of parchment paper under the slices to prevent any cheese from sticking to the basket and make cleanup easier. However, this is not necessary.
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (176°C) and air fry for 3-5 minutes. For thin-crust pizza, 3 minutes should be enough, while thicker crusts might need the full 5 minutes. Keep an eye on your pizza to make sure it doesn't burn.
Reheating Fries in an Air Fryer:
Place your fries in the air fryer basket and air fry at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, or until hot and crispy. Give the basket a good shake after about 2 minutes of air frying time to ensure even cooking and browning. For the crispiest fries, it is best to air fry only a single layer of fries at a time.
And that's it! You now have perfectly reheated pizza and fries, with crispy textures and melty cheese, all without the sogginess of the microwave or the long wait of the oven. Enjoy!
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can put raw meat in an air fryer, but make sure it's defrosted first. Monitor the meat throughout cooking to ensure it's heated through before consuming.
Yes, you can put foil in an air fryer, but it's important to use it safely to avoid fire hazards, chemical leaching, and undercooked food.
Yes, you can put parchment paper in an air fryer, but it should be weighed down by food before turning the air fryer on to avoid a potential fire hazard.
Yes, you can put bread in an air fryer, but it's not recommended. Toasting bread in an air fryer can lead to stray crumbs on and around the fan and heating elements, which are difficult to remove and can cause a persistent burning smell.
Yes, you can put frozen food in an air fryer. It's a great way to heat up frozen foods.
