Air Fryer Dinner Ideas For Quick, Easy Meals

Air fryers are a versatile kitchen appliance that can cook a wide range of foods, from appetizers to main courses and even desserts. They are a healthier alternative to deep fryers as they use less oil, and they are also more energy-efficient and faster than traditional ovens. With an air fryer, you can cook everything from chicken wings and tenders to salmon fillets and steak. You can even make grilled cheese sandwiches, breakfast tacos, and desserts like apple cinnamon chips and donuts.

Chicken recipes, e.g. wings, tenders, parmesan, sandwiches

Chicken is a versatile protein that can be cooked in an air fryer in many ways. Here are some ideas for chicken recipes you can make using an air fryer:

Chicken Wings

Air fryer chicken wings are a quick, easy, and healthy option for a weeknight dinner. They come out perfectly crispy and juicy without the grease of traditional fried chicken. You can season them with a variety of spices and herbs, such as kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, and sage. Baking powder is also added to help raise the pH level of the skin, giving the wings a golden-brown crispiness. Cook the wings in the air fryer at 400°F for 16 to 22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

For some extra flavour, you can toss the wings in different sauces. For example, for Garlic Parmesan wings, toss them in melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle with parsley. Or, for Honey Sriracha wings, combine honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, and lime juice for a sticky glaze during the last minute of air frying.

Chicken Tenders

Air fryer chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken strips. They come out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. To make them, coat boneless, skinless chicken tenders with a mixture of eggs, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add different seasonings to the breadcrumb mixture, such as Italian seasoning, herbs de Provence, or cajun seasoning. Cook the tenders in the air fryer at 400°F for about 8 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Chicken Parmesan

Air fryer Chicken Parmesan is a healthier version of the classic dish. The chicken is coated in a crispy Parmesan crust without the need for frying in oil. To make it, dip chicken breasts in a mixture of eggs, breadcrumbs, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Then, cook the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Top the chicken with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.

Chicken Sandwiches

You can also use your air fryer to make chicken sandwiches, such as a Chick-fil-A copycat sandwich. To make the chicken, brine boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a mixture of buttermilk and pickle juice. Then, dredge the chicken in a mixture of flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and powdered sweetener. You can optionally dredge the chicken in a beaten egg before coating it in the flour mixture to help keep the breading intact. Cook the chicken in the air fryer at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Serve the chicken on a bun with your choice of toppings and condiments.

Fish and seafood, e.g. salmon, shrimp, fish tacos

Fish and Seafood in the Air Fryer

Fish Tacos

Air fryer fish tacos are a great option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. They can be made with your favourite white fish, such as tilapia, mahi mahi, or cod, and are ready in about 15 minutes.

To make the tacos, you'll need to:

• Toss your chosen fish with a spice mix of chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Spray the air fryer basket with oil, lay in the fish, brush with olive oil, and generously cover with the spice rub. Spritz the fish with oil again to keep the spices moist.
• Air fry at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily.
• While the fish cooks, prepare a cilantro lime slaw by mixing together cole slaw, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, and optional sugar, salt, and pepper.
• Assemble the tacos with the fish and slaw, and add any extra toppings, like cheese or an extra squeeze of lime.

Salmon

Air fryer salmon is another quick and easy option, taking less than 10 minutes to cook. It results in tender, flaky fish with seared edges.

To make air fryer salmon, you'll need to:

• Cut salmon fillets into even sizes and season with garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil.
• Place the salmon in the air fryer and cook at 400°F for 7-9 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
• Check the salmon with a fork to ensure it's cooked to your liking.

You can serve air fryer salmon with a salad, grains like rice or couscous, or vegetables. You can even cook the vegetables in the air fryer at the same time!

Shrimp

Air fryer shrimp is a versatile option that can be used in bowls, salads, or as a main served with veggies. It's also a quick and easy weeknight meal, taking less than 10 minutes to cook.

To make air fryer shrimp:

• Peel and devein jumbo shrimp, then mix with olive oil, garlic powder, sweet paprika, dried parsley, and salt.
• Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 5-6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• Serve the shrimp with lemon wedges, or try it in tacos, bowls, salads, or as a main dish with roasted vegetables.

There are plenty of delicious and healthy options for fish and seafood dishes in the air fryer, perfect for a quick and convenient weeknight dinner.

Vegetarian options, e.g. halloumi, tofu, veggies

If you're looking for some vegetarian options to cook for dinner in your air fryer, here are some ideas to get you started:

Halloumi

Cooking halloumi in an air fryer is a great way to achieve a crispy exterior and gooey centre, without the need for additional oil. Simply slice the halloumi, place it in the air fryer at 400°F for around 15 minutes, turning it over halfway through. You can season it with smoked paprika or mixed herbs for added flavour. Halloumi is a popular substitute for fish in vegetarian dishes, such as fish and chips.

Tofu

The air fryer is perfect for achieving crispy tofu, which can be served with a range of sauces. Start by removing as much moisture from the tofu as possible by wrapping it in a clean dish towel and placing something heavy on top, like a can of tomatoes, for at least 30 minutes. Then, cut the tofu into cubes and toss them in cornstarch. Before placing them in the air fryer, coat the tofu cubes in your choice of sauce, such as teriyaki, barbecue, or Buffalo sauce. Cook the tofu at 400°F for around eight minutes, and add more sauce after cooking if desired.

Vegetables

The air fryer is a quick and easy way to cook a variety of vegetables, including zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower. Simply toss the vegetables in olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 10 to 15 minutes, tossing halfway through, until tender and browned. You can also cook potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and chickpeas in the air fryer.

Meat, e.g. steak, pork chops, whole chicken

If you're looking to cook meat for dinner in your air fryer, you're in luck! Here are some ideas and instructions for preparing steak, pork chops, and whole chicken:

Steak

Air-frying steak is a great way to enjoy a juicy and tender meal with minimal effort. Start by seasoning your steak with your desired spices or rub. You can use a simple combination of salt and pepper or try something more complex like a garlic herb butter rub. Set your air fryer to the desired temperature and cook time, which will depend on your steak's thickness and your preferred doneness. For a 1-inch New York strip cooked to medium-rare, air fry for about six minutes per side at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also use the air fryer to cook a side of fries to go with your steak for a simple and complete meal.

Pork Chops

Pork chops are a delicious and easy option for air frying. Season your chops with a combination of paprika, mustard, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese for a tasty flavour profile. You can also try Italian seasoning for a classic take on this versatile cut of meat. Cook the pork chops in the air fryer until they reach your desired level of doneness, usually around 10 minutes, depending on their thickness. Serve them with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded dinner.

Whole Chicken

Cooking a whole chicken in an air fryer might seem intimidating, but it's actually easier than using an oven. Most 6-quart basket-style fryers can accommodate a 4-pound chicken. Start by patting the chicken dry and rubbing it with your preferred spice mix, being generous with the salt. A classic combination of garlic, rosemary, and olive oil is always a good choice. You can also stuff the cavity with fresh herbs and a halved lemon for extra flavour and moisture. Place the chicken in the air fryer and cook for about 30 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, flip it over and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes, increasing the temperature to 400 degrees if you want crispy skin. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

With these ideas and instructions, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a delicious meat-centric dinner prepared in your air fryer!

Snacks and sides, e.g. fries, onion rings, egg rolls

If you're looking for some snack and side inspiration for your air fryer, look no further! Here are some ideas to get you started:

Fries

For a classic side dish or snack, you can't go wrong with fries. Air fryers are a great way to make them, as they require less oil than deep-frying and they come out fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside. You can even make them more indulgent by using parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Onion Rings

Onion rings are another crunchy fried finger food that can be made in an air fryer for easier cleanup. You'll get that same bubbly, golden texture without the mess of a pot of oil.

Egg Rolls

Egg rolls are a perfect snack or side, and the air fryer makes them even healthier and tastier. They're super easy to make, too—just use store-bought coleslaw mix and your favourite fillings.

Sweet Potato Fries

For a slightly sweeter option, try making sweet potato fries in your air fryer. They're a great healthy alternative to regular fries and are perfect for busy weeknights.

Zucchini

If you're looking for a unique side dish, try air-fried zucchini. The key to getting it crispy is to use a generous amount of olive oil in the breading. It's a great option if you're craving something crunchy but don't want to deal with the mess of deep-frying.

Asparagus

Asparagus is a quick-cooking veggie that becomes absolutely irresistible when made in an air fryer. Just add some crispy panko breadcrumbs, and you've got a side dish that the whole family will love.

So, there you have it! These are just a few ideas to get you started on your air fryer snack and side journey. Whether you're craving something classic like fries or want to try something new like air-fried zucchini, your air fryer has you covered.

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