25 Air Fryer Dinner Recipes That Actually Work Every Time

Food-sec.com – Your air fryer is one of the most powerful tools in your kitchen. Yet so many people use it only for frozen fries. These 25 air fryer dinner recipes change that completely.

From crispy chicken to tender salmon and bold flavored veggies, each recipe delivers real results fast. No guesswork. No soggy food. Just hot, delicious meals your whole family will ask for again. If you want quick wins at dinnertime, easy dinner recipes is a great place to start.

1. Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs in the air fryer come out golden on the outside and juicy on the inside every single time. A simple garlic butter coating adds rich, savory flavor without much effort. This recipe is great for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
• Mix melted butter, garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
• Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
• Coat each thigh thoroughly with the garlic butter mixture.
• Place thighs skin side down in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 12 minutes, then flip.
• Cook for another 10 to 12 minutes until skin is crispy and internal temp reaches 165°F.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

2. Air Fryer Salmon with Lemon Dill

Fresh salmon fillets cook beautifully in the air fryer with a crispy outside and flaky, moist center. The lemon and dill combination keeps the flavor bright and clean. This is one of those air fryer dinner recipes you will make on repeat.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced and juiced
• 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Preheat air fryer to 390°F for 3 minutes.
• Brush salmon fillets with olive oil on all sides.
• Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Squeeze lemon juice over each fillet.
• Place fillets in the air fryer basket, skin side down.
• Lay a lemon slice on top of each fillet.
• Cook for 10 to 12 minutes until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
• Top with fresh dill and serve immediately.

3. Air Fryer Crispy Tofu Bowls

Crispy tofu from the air fryer is a total game changer for plant based dinners. The outside gets golden and chewy while the inside stays soft. Serve it over rice with your favorite sauce for a filling and satisfying meal. For more ideas like this, check out these vegetarian dinner ideas for college students.

Ingredients

• 1 block extra firm tofu (14 oz), pressed and cubed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 tablespoon sriracha for serving

Instructions

• Press tofu for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
• Cut into 1 inch cubes and pat dry.
• Toss tofu with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ginger powder.
• Sprinkle cornstarch over tofu and toss again to coat evenly.
• Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
• Arrange tofu in a single layer in the basket.
• Cook for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• Serve over rice and drizzle with sriracha.

4. Air Fryer Steak Bites with Garlic Butter

Steak bites in the air fryer are faster than a skillet and deliver incredible sear. The high heat creates a beautiful crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Toss them in garlic butter right after cooking and they are absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1.5 inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

• Cut steak into uniform cubes and pat completely dry.
• Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
• Place steak bites in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding.
• Cook for 7 to 9 minutes for medium doneness, shaking once halfway.
• While steak cooks, melt butter in a pan and add minced garlic.
• Cook garlic butter for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
• Remove steak bites and toss immediately in garlic butter.
• Sprinkle with fresh thyme and serve hot.

5. Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan with a crispy breaded coating is completely achievable in the air fryer with no oil splattering. The cheese melts perfectly and the crust stays crunchy. It pairs wonderfully with pasta for a classic comfort meal. If you love cheesy chicken dishes, you will also enjoy this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned)
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 0.5 cup all purpose flour
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Pound chicken breasts to an even 0.75 inch thickness.
• Set up three bowls with flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.
• Season chicken with salt and pepper.
• Dredge each breast in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture.
• Press crumbs firmly onto the chicken.
• Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
• Spray basket with cooking spray and place chicken inside.
• Cook for 10 minutes, flip carefully, then cook 8 more minutes.
• Spoon marinara over each breast and top with mozzarella.
• Cook for 3 more minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Air Fryer Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp tacos made in the air fryer are ready in under 20 minutes and taste like they came from a beachside taco stand. The shrimp get lightly charred and seasoned with bold spices. Load them into warm tortillas with slaw and lime for a weeknight win.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
• 0.5 cup sour cream
• 2 limes, cut into wedges
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro

Instructions

• Toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
• Let shrimp marinate for 10 minutes while you prep toppings.
• Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
• Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the basket.
• Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
• Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
• Build tacos with shrimp, cabbage, sour cream, and cilantro.
• Squeeze lime over everything and serve immediately.

7. Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers in the air fryer cook faster than the oven and develop a slightly charred, sweet exterior. The filling of seasoned ground beef and rice is hearty and comforting. This is the kind of recipe that feeds the whole family without much fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley

Instructions

• Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
• Drain excess fat and add marinara, rice, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.
• Stir well and cook together for 2 minutes.
• Spoon filling into each bell pepper, packing it firmly.
• Preheat air fryer to 360°F.
• Place stuffed peppers upright in the basket.
• Cook for 12 to 15 minutes until peppers are tender.
• Top each pepper with shredded cheddar in the last 2 minutes.
• Garnish with parsley and serve.

8. Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin

Pork tenderloin is often overlooked but it is one of the most tender and lean proteins you can cook. In the air fryer it develops a gorgeous brown crust in just 20 minutes. A simple herb rub is all it needs.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs pork tenderloin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Pat pork tenderloin dry with paper towels.
• Rub all over with olive oil.
• Mix garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Press the spice mixture firmly onto all sides of the pork.
• Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
• Place tenderloin in the basket and cook for 20 to 22 minutes.
• Flip halfway through cooking.
• Check that internal temperature has reached 145°F.
• Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

9. Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Crispy chicken wings without deep frying sounds too good to be true, but the air fryer makes it happen every time. The skin renders out beautifully and the meat stays juicy. Toss them in your favorite sauce and they are better than any bar wings you have had.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings, split at joints, tips removed
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

• Pat wings completely dry with paper towels. This step is critical for crispiness.
• Toss wings with baking powder, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and pepper.
• Let wings sit uncovered in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
• Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
• Arrange wings in a single layer without touching.
• Cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Increase temperature to 400°F and cook for 5 more minutes.
• Mix buffalo sauce and melted butter in a large bowl.
• Toss hot wings in sauce and serve immediately.

10. Air Fryer Veggie Quesadillas

Veggie quesadillas in the air fryer get perfectly golden and crispy on the outside with melted, gooey cheese inside. The vegetables get slightly caramelized and add great texture. They are quick, satisfying, and easy enough for anyone to make.

Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small zucchini, thinly sliced
• 0.5 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• Cooking spray
• Sour cream and salsa for serving

Instructions

• Toss vegetables with cumin, chili powder, and salt.
• Preheat air fryer to 375°F and lightly spray the basket.
• Cook seasoned vegetables for 5 minutes to soften slightly.
• Remove veggies and set aside.
• Lay one tortilla flat and top half with cheese, veggies, and more cheese.
• Fold the tortilla in half.
• Spray both sides lightly with cooking spray.
• Cook quesadillas for 5 to 6 minutes, flipping carefully once.
• Serve with sour cream and salsa.

11. Air Fryer Meatballs

Homemade meatballs in the air fryer are juicy inside and have a beautiful brown crust outside. They cook in about 12 minutes flat and work great with pasta, subs, or on their own. These are a must have in your rotation of air fryer dinner recipes.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 0.5 lb ground pork
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

• Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl until just combined. Do not over mix.
• Roll mixture into 1.5 inch balls and place on a plate.
• Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
• Spray basket with cooking spray.
• Place meatballs in a single layer with space between each.
• Cook for 11 to 13 minutes until browned and cooked through.
• Check that internal temperature has reached 165°F.
• Serve with pasta and marinara or as appetizers.

12. Air Fryer Cod Fillets

Cod in the air fryer comes out flaky and mild with a lightly crispy coating. It cooks in just 10 minutes which makes it one of the fastest healthy dinners you can pull off. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley

Instructions

• Pat cod fillets completely dry.
• Brush both sides with olive oil.
• Mix garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Season fillets generously on both sides.
• Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
• Place fillets in the basket without overlapping.
• Cook for 10 minutes without flipping.
• Fish should flake easily with a fork when done.
• Top with parsley and serve with lemon slices.

13. Air Fryer Chicken Fajita Bowls

Chicken fajita bowls from the air fryer are smoky, colorful, and ready in about 25 minutes. The peppers and onions cook right alongside the chicken and soak up all that bold seasoning. This is one of those air fryer dinner recipes that works great for meal prep too. For a full week of prep friendly meals, you can read meal prep dinner for the entire week.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced into strips
• 2 bell peppers (different colors), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• Lime wedges, sour cream, and salsa for serving

Instructions

• Combine chicken, peppers, and onion in a large bowl.
• Drizzle with olive oil and add all spices.
• Toss everything together until well coated.
• Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
• Cook for 12 minutes, shaking the basket once halfway through.
• Check chicken temperature has reached 165°F.
• Serve over rice with lime, sour cream, and salsa.

14. Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan in the air fryer skips the heavy frying oil but keeps all the flavors you love. The eggplant gets tender and the breading stays crispy. It is a hearty vegetarian dinner that does not feel like you are missing anything.

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant, sliced into 0.5 inch rounds
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 0.5 cup all purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella

Instructions

• Slice eggplant and salt both sides generously.
• Let sit for 15 minutes, then pat dry to remove moisture.
• Set up three bowls with flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.
• Dredge each slice in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
• Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
• Spray basket and place slices in a single layer.
• Cook for 10 minutes, flip, and cook 5 more minutes.
• Spoon marinara on each slice and top with mozzarella.
• Cook for 3 more minutes until cheese melts.
• Serve hot with extra marinara on the side.

15. Air Fryer Honey Garlic Pork Chops

Pork chops in the air fryer stay tender and moist instead of drying out like they do in a hot pan. A honey garlic glaze adds sticky, sweet and savory flavor in every bite. These come together in about 20 minutes and look impressive on the plate.

Ingredients

• 4 bone in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley

Instructions

• Mix honey, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, paprika, pepper, and salt in a bowl.
• Coat pork chops completely in the honey garlic marinade.
• Let marinate for 15 minutes or up to 4 hours in the fridge.
• Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
• Place pork chops in the basket without touching.
• Cook for 8 minutes, flip, and cook another 6 to 7 minutes.
• Internal temperature should read 145°F.
• Let rest for 3 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with parsley and serve.

16. Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

Turkey burgers can be dry and bland, but not when made in the air fryer. The circulating heat keeps them moist while forming a nice crust on the outside. Load them up with your favorite toppings for a lighter burger night.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs ground turkey (93 percent lean)
• 0.25 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 burger buns
• Lettuce, tomato, and condiments for serving

Instructions

• Combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Worcestershire, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Mix gently until just combined.
• Form into 4 equal patties, slightly thicker at the edges.
• Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
• Spray basket lightly with cooking spray.
• Cook patties for 12 minutes, flipping at the halfway mark.
• Internal temperature must reach 165°F.
• Toast buns in the last 2 minutes if desired.
• Build your burger and serve right away.

17. Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

Coconut shrimp from the air fryer come out golden, crispy, and tropical tasting with no deep fryer needed. The sweet coconut crust pairs perfectly with a spicy dipping sauce. This recipe works as a main course or a party starter.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
• 0.5 cup all purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened)
• 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 cup sweet chili sauce for dipping

Instructions

• Set up three bowls with flour, beaten egg, and a mix of coconut and panko.
• Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
• Hold each shrimp by the tail and dredge in flour, then egg, then coconut mixture.
• Press the coating firmly onto the shrimp.
• Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
• Spray basket generously with cooking spray.
• Arrange shrimp in a single layer.
• Cook for 8 minutes, flip carefully, and cook 4 more minutes.
• Shrimp should be golden and cooked through.
• Serve immediately with sweet chili sauce.

18. Air Fryer Sausage and Peppers

Sausage and peppers is a classic combination that gets even better in the air fryer. The sausage develops a gorgeous browned casing and the peppers soften and sweeten. Pile it into hoagie rolls or serve over pasta for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 Italian sausage links (sweet or hot)
• 3 bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 hoagie rolls for serving

Instructions

• Toss peppers and onions with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
• Place sausages in the basket and surround with seasoned vegetables.
• Cook for 15 minutes, turning sausages and stirring veggies halfway through.
• Sausage internal temperature should reach 160°F.
• Slice sausages diagonally and serve over peppers and onions.
• Pile into rolls or serve over pasta.

19. Air Fryer Lemon Herb Chicken Breast

Boneless chicken breast in the air fryer stays juicy when you cook it right. A bright lemon herb marinade makes every bite flavorful and fresh. This is one of those high protein air fryer dinner recipes that gym goers and health focused eaters will love. You will find even more ideas like this in these high protein dinner recipes for gym lovers.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lemons, juiced and zested
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

• Pound chicken breasts to even 0.75 inch thickness.
• Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Add chicken to marinade and coat completely.
• Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours in the fridge.
• Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
• Place chicken in basket without overlapping.
• Cook for 10 minutes, flip, and cook 8 to 10 more minutes.
• Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon.

20. Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks

Cauliflower steaks are a bold and beautiful plant based main course. The air fryer caramelizes the surface perfectly while keeping the center tender. Season them with a smoky spice blend and they become the star of any dinner table.

Ingredients

• 2 large heads of cauliflower
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 0.25 cup tahini sauce for serving

Instructions

• Remove outer leaves from cauliflower and trim stem.
• Slice each head into 1 inch thick steaks from the center.
• Mix olive oil with all spices and lemon juice.
• Brush marinade generously on both sides of each steak.
• Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
• Place steaks carefully in the basket.
• Cook for 12 minutes, flip gently, and cook 10 more minutes.
• Cauliflower should be golden and tender when pierced with a fork.
• Drizzle with tahini sauce before serving.

21. Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks in the air fryer come out with skin that crackles when you bite in. They are one of the most affordable cuts you can buy and the air fryer makes them taste premium. A simple seasoning rub is all you need for outstanding results.

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

• Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels and score the skin two times per piece.
• Coat drumsticks with olive oil.
• Mix all dry spices together and rub firmly all over each drumstick.
• Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
• Arrange drumsticks in the basket with some space around each.
• Cook for 25 minutes, turning every 8 minutes for even browning.
• Check internal temperature has reached 165°F.
• Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

22. Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon Bowls

Teriyaki glazed salmon bowls are a complete dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. The sweet and salty teriyaki caramelizes onto the salmon beautifully in the air fryer. Served over rice with steamed broccoli, this is a full meal in one bowl.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 0.25 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
• 2 cups steamed broccoli
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

• Make teriyaki sauce by combining soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a small pot.
• Bring to a simmer and stir in cornstarch mixture.
• Cook for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
• Brush half the sauce onto salmon fillets.
• Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
• Cook salmon for 9 to 11 minutes until glazed and flaky.
• Serve salmon over rice and broccoli.
• Drizzle remaining sauce over bowls.
• Top with sesame seeds and green onions.

23. Air Fryer Beef Kabobs

Beef kabobs from the air fryer are a fast and festive dinner option that does not require firing up the outdoor grill. The beef gets beautifully charred on the edges while staying juicy inside. Thread them with veggies for a colorful, satisfying plate.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs beef sirloin, cut into 1.5 inch cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

• If using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Toss beef with olive oil and all spices until fully coated.
• Thread beef and vegetables alternately onto skewers.
• Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
• Place skewers in basket, trimming if needed to fit.
• Cook for 12 minutes, turning once halfway through.
• Beef should be charred at edges and cooked to your liking.
• Rest 3 minutes before serving.

24. Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Bites

Mac and cheese bites are crispy on the outside and oozy on the inside. They make a fun and filling dinner option that kids absolutely love. Pair them with a simple green salad for a meal that hits all the right notes. These are a huge hit with even the pickiest kids, much like the ideas you will find in these kid-friendly dinner recipes.

Ingredients

• 3 cups prepared mac and cheese, cooled completely
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 0.5 cup all purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Cooking spray

Instructions

• Stir extra cheddar into cooled mac and cheese until combined.
• Scoop into 1.5 inch balls and place on a parchment lined tray.
• Freeze for 30 minutes until firm.
• Set up three bowls with flour, beaten egg, and seasoned breadcrumbs.
• Dredge each frozen ball in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
• Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
• Spray basket and place bites with space between each.
• Cook for 8 minutes, gently flip, and cook 5 more minutes.
• Serve hot with dipping sauce of your choice.

25. Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

Chicken and broccoli in the air fryer is a simple, clean, high protein dinner that comes together in one basket. Everything cooks at the same time with no extra pans. Season it well and you have a meal that tastes like it took much longer to make.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken breast, cut into 1 inch pieces
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• Cooked rice for serving
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

• Mix soy sauce, olive oil, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch in a bowl.
• Add chicken pieces and toss to coat.
• Toss broccoli with a little oil and season with salt.
• Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
• Add chicken to basket and cook for 8 minutes.
• Add broccoli on top of the chicken.
• Cook for another 7 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket once.
• Chicken should be cooked through and broccoli slightly charred.
• Serve over rice and sprinkle with sesame seeds.