20 Air Fryer Recipes That Actually Work (Not Just Reheated Chips)

Air fryers have earned their countertop space, but most people barely scratch the surface. These 20 recipes prove your air fryer can make complete meals, not just snacks.

Main Courses

1. Whole Chicken

Season and cook at 180°C for 50-60 minutes, turning halfway. Crispier skin than oven roasting.

2. Salmon Fillets

10 minutes at 200°C. Perfectly cooked, slightly crispy top. Season simply with lemon and dill.

3. Pork Chops

12 minutes at 190°C. Juicy inside, caramelised outside. No babysitting required.

4. Chicken Wings

25 minutes at 200°C, turning once. Crispy without deep frying. Toss in sauce after.

5. Burgers

10-12 minutes at 190°C. Form patties thin for best crust. Toast buns in last 2 minutes.

Vegetable Sides

6. Brussels Sprouts

Halved, tossed in oil, 15 minutes at 190°C. Crispy leaves, tender centres.

7. Broccoli

8 minutes at 200°C. Charred edges, still bright green.

8. Sweet Potato Fries

Cut thin, minimal oil, 15 minutes at 200°C. Shake basket halfway.

9. Cauliflower Bites

Toss in spices, 12 minutes at 190°C. Serve with tahini dip.

10. Roasted Garlic

Whole heads, tops cut off, drizzle of oil. 25 minutes at 180°C.

Snacks and Starters

11. Mozzarella Sticks

Freeze first, then air fry at 190°C for 6 minutes. Prevents cheese escape.

12. Spring Rolls

Brush with oil, 10 minutes at 190°C. As crispy as deep-fried.

13. Scotch Eggs

18 minutes at 180°C, turning once. Golden and cooked through.

14. Samosas

12 minutes at 200°C. Works for homemade or frozen.

Surprising Uses

15. Toasted Nuts

5 minutes at 160°C. Shake frequently. More even than oven toasting.

16. Roasted Chickpeas

Dried chickpeas, spiced, 15 minutes at 200°C. Crunchy snack.

17. Croutons

Cubed bread, oil, 5 minutes at 180°C. Perfect for salads.

Desserts

18. Apple Chips

Thin slices, 8 minutes at 180°C. Natural sweetness, crispy texture.

19. Churros

Pipe dough, 10 minutes at 180°C. Toss in cinnamon sugar.

20. Brownies

Small pan insert, 15 minutes at 160°C. Check with toothpick.

Air Fryer Tips

• Don't overcrowd—air needs to circulate
• Shake or flip halfway through cooking
• A light spray of oil improves crispiness
• Preheat for 3 minutes for best results
• Use parchment liners for easy cleanup

Looking for air fryer recipes using what you have? Fridgr suggests meals based on your available ingredients.