17 Air Fryer Recipes That Prove Crispy Beats Complicated Every Time

Your air fryer is basically the kitchen equivalent of a magician—except it does not need a cape and it never disappears right when you need it. These 17 recipes deliver that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside magic with almost zero effort. From snacks that vanish instantly to dinners that taste way fancier than they are, this list gives you big flavor with tiny clean-up. Get ready to air-fry your way to happiness, one crunchy bite at a time.

Frozen Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

Short on time? No problem! Toss frozen chicken thighs in the air fryer, and in no time, you’ll have juicy, tender thighs without the hassle. No rubbery texture here—just delicious, effortless dinner!
Get the Recipe: Frozen Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

Air Fryer Paleo Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Need a fast, tasty meal? These Air Fryer Paleo Teriyaki Chicken Thighs are here to save the day! Only 2 ingredients, 20 minutes, and you’ll have juicy, mouthwatering chicken on your plate!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Paleo Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Steak

In a hurry but want a tasty dinner? These Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Steaks are juicy, flavorful, and ready in less than 15 minutes—perfect for a low-carb meal!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Steak

Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon

Satisfy your salmon cravings with this Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon! The tender fish paired with a deliciously rich glaze makes for a simple yet flavorful dinner. Ideal for any night!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon

Air Fryer Twisted Bacon

Want to make bacon even better? Try Air Fryer Bacon Twists! They’re crispy, caramelized, and super fun to make—ideal for breakfast, snacks, or appetizers, and ready in no time!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Twisted Bacon

Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms are about to become your new favorite side! Packed with flavor and super easy to make, this simple dish will impress without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Mushrooms

Air Fryer Shrimp

A plate of seasoned, air-fried shrimp with a dipping sauce and lemon wedges. A fork rests on the plate, perfect for those exploring new air fryer recipes. — Air Fryer Shrimp. Photo credit: From Ice Cream To Steak.

Air fryer shrimp is the ultimate fast and flavorful dish! Juicy shrimp with a perfect crisp, no heavy oils, and ready in just minutes. Whether for a salad, pasta, or appetizer, it’s versatile and easy!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

How To Cook Frozen Meatballs in an Air Fryer

A plate of air fryer frozen meatballs smothered in rich tomato sauce, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. — How to make frozen meatballs in an air fryer. Photo credit: From Ice Cream to Steak.

Air fryer frozen meatballs are a mealtime miracle! They come out juicy and perfectly crisp in just minutes, making them ideal for pasta, sandwiches, or appetizers. Effortless and tasty!
Get the Recipe: How To Cook Frozen Meatballs in an Air Fryer

Air Fryer Lumpia

Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce. — Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Lumpiang Shanghai cravings? Our air fryer lumpia recipe gives you that satisfying crunch, but with fewer calories and less grease—deliciously guilt-free!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken

Low angle shot of korean fried chicken with a hand holding a piece of the chicken. — Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken is the perfect combo of crispy, crunchy, spicy, and sweet. Easy to make and totally addictive—you won’t be able to stop at just one bite!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken

Air Fryer Pork Belly

This Air Fryer Pork Belly is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and glazed with a sweet-savory hoisin sauce that caramelizes to perfection. It’s so good, you’ll keep going back for more!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Pieces of chicken on a plate of spaghetti. — Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and covered in cheesy goodness! A healthier, hearty take on a classic Italian dinner that’s sure to satisfy!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Air Fryer Baby Potatoes

Air fryer baby potatoes come out with a crispy exterior and a creamy, buttery middle. Perfectly roasted and ready to be the star of your meal!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Potatoes

Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Air Fryer Salmon Bites are tender, flavorful, and full of nutrients! A deliciously easy way to enjoy salmon in bite-sized perfection.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Air Fryer Sausage Balls

White plate of sausage balls on a Thanksgiving themed table. — Air Fryer Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

These Air Fryer Sausage Balls are a must for your Friendsgiving or game day spread! Quick, easy, and packed with flavor—everyone will be reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sausage Balls

Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Chicken Cordon Bleu in the air fryer? Yes, please! Crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—plus, it’s super easy when you take a few shortcuts!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu

Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla

Some picking up a slice of cheese quesadilla. — Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Picture a golden brown, crispy quesadilla with cheese oozing out from every corner. Air fryer cheese quesadillas let you enjoy all the crispy, cheesy goodness without the mess or grease.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheese Quesadilla