15 Air Fryer Recipes That Taste Deep-Fried (But Aren’t)
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I’ve been leaning on my air fryer more and more because it makes weeknight dinners so much easier. You get that crisp, golden texture you usually only get from frying, but without standing over a greasy pan or using tons of oil. It’s fast, convenient, and perfect for anyone who wants food that’s crunchy outside and tender inside without the extra mess.
Air Fryer Steak Tips
These steak tips cook quickly in the air fryer while keeping a rich, browned exterior without using extra oil. They are perfect for weeknight dinners when time is tight. The air fryer gives them a crisp finish similar to pan-searing. This makes cleanup fast and the meal easy to serve with sides.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Steak Tips
Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings
These wings come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, all thanks to the air fryer. The Cajun seasoning adds bold flavor without extra effort. They are ready in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for a quick snack or appetizer. The air fryer keeps them lighter while still giving a crunchy texture.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings
Fried Eggs in Air Fryer
Air fryer fried eggs cook evenly with a firm edge and soft yolk, replicating the look of fried eggs in a pan. They are quick to prepare and easy to serve for breakfast or brunch. The air fryer reduces the need for extra oil while keeping the eggs tender. Cleanup is simple, which makes morning routines faster.
Get the Recipe: Fried Eggs in Air Fryer
Ground Turkey Air Fryer Spring Rolls
These spring rolls come out crisp without deep-frying, making them a convenient option for lunch or snack. They cook evenly in the air fryer and brown nicely on all sides. Prep time is minimal, and they are easy to serve with dipping sauces. The air fryer keeps them light while still giving a crunch.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
This BBQ chicken cooks quickly in the air fryer while forming a caramelized coating similar to grilled or fried chicken. It’s great for dinners with minimal fuss. The air fryer locks in moisture so the chicken stays tender. Cleanup is easy, making it simple to enjoy a saucy meal anytime.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts
Marinated chicken breasts cook evenly and come out juicy with a slightly crisp exterior in the air fryer. They are ideal for quick weeknight meals or meal prep. The air fryer reduces oil use while keeping a roasted texture. Cooking is fast, and cleanup is minimal, making it practical.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Teriyaki chicken develops a browned glaze in the air fryer while remaining juicy inside. It works well for a family dinner or quick weeknight meal. The cooking process is simple, and you get even browning without frying in oil. Cleanup is easy, leaving more time for serving.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Keto Air Fryer Spicy Sauced Tenders
These tenders cook quickly in the air fryer and get a crisp outside without frying. The spicy sauce sticks well and adds bold flavor. They are perfect for a fast snack or dinner addition. The air fryer keeps them lighter while achieving a crunchy texture.
Get the Recipe: Keto Air Fryer Spicy Sauced Tenders
Air Fryer Garlic Bread
Garlic bread becomes golden and crisp in minutes without using the oven or extra oil. It is ideal for quick side servings for dinner. The air fryer creates even browning and a lightly crisp crust. It’s a fast and practical way to enjoy warm bread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Bread
Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One
This single-serving apple crisp cooks quickly while creating a crunchy topping that mimics a baked dessert. It’s perfect for a fast snack or dessert without using the oven. The air fryer keeps it light and crisp. Cleanup is simple since it’s a single portion.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Apple Crisp for One
Air Fryer Lumpia
Lumpia cooks evenly and becomes crisp on all sides without deep-frying. They are perfect for parties or quick snacks. Prep time is short, and the air fryer keeps them from getting greasy. The texture is crunchy outside while soft inside.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders come out golden and crisp on the outside while staying tender inside. They cook faster than in the oven and need less oil. Perfect for quick lunches or dinners. Cleanup is simple, leaving more time to enjoy the meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Chicken Nuggets
Chicken nuggets cook evenly in the air fryer, forming a crunchy exterior without frying. They are great for fast lunches or snacks. Prep is minimal, and they are easy to serve. The air fryer keeps them crisp while reducing oil use.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets
Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia
Banana turon gets a crisp golden exterior while staying soft and sweet inside. The air fryer reduces oil use and keeps cleanup simple. It’s a quick dessert or snack option. Even cooking ensures each piece is evenly browned.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia
Crab Melt
This crab melt develops a browned, crisp top in the air fryer while keeping the crab mixture moist. It’s ideal for quick lunches or appetizers. Cooking is fast and contained, reducing the mess. The air fryer ensures a lightly crisp crust similar to broiling.
Get the Recipe: Crab Melt