Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience when it comes to lunchtime? Look no further! The air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook, allowing us to create crispy, golden-brown dishes with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering air fryer recipes that are perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch.
From classic comfort foods like grilled cheese and buffalo cauliflower bites, to international-inspired dishes like Korean-style pork dumplings and Greek chicken gyros, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe is designed to be easy to make, even for those new to air fryer cooking. So go ahead, get creative, and start exploring the endless possibilities of air fryer cuisine!
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this sweet and savory air fryer recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken strips to the bowl and toss until fully coated with the honey-mustard mixture.
4. Load the chicken tenders into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Check for crispiness and cook additional 2-3 minutes if needed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crunchy Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and crunchy air fryer fish recipe, topped with a zesty lime crema that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lime crema ingredients: 1 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip fish pieces into olive oil, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Cook fish in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.
5. Meanwhile, prepare lime crema by mixing sour cream, lime juice, and honey in a bowl.
6. Assemble tacos by placing cooked fish on tortillas, topping with lime crema, and serving immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Veggie Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce
Get ready to enjoy a crispy and flavorful snack that’s perfect for any occasion! This recipe combines the simplicity of air frying with the deliciousness of spring rolls, served with a sweet and spicy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or international aisle)
– 1/2 cup shredded carrot
– 1/2 cup shredded zucchini
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup crispy fried onions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together carrot, zucchini, scallions, and crispy fried onions.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat and place about 1 tablespoon of the veggie mixture in the center.
4. Fold the bottom half up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
5. Place the spring rolls seam-side down in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve with Sweet Chili Sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Spicy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Spicy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites Recipe
Transform cauliflower florets into crispy, spicy bites reminiscent of buffalo chicken wings! This air fryer recipe is a game-changer for snack enthusiasts and party-goers alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Frank’s RedHot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the melted butter and stir until combined.
4. Toss cauliflower florets in the buffalo sauce mixture until evenly coated.
5. Load the cauliflower bites into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until crispy, shaking halfway through.
7. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and return to air fryer for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup
This comforting combination is a twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, elevated by the crispy texture of air frying. Serve it alongside a warm bowl of creamy tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread
– 1-2 slices of cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped herbs or spices for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the air fryer basket.
4. Add cheese and top with the second bread slice, butter-side up.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve with a bowl of warm tomato soup and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Crispy Air Fryer Falafel Wraps with Tzatziki
Crispy Air Fryer Falafel Wraps with Tzatziki: A flavorful and healthy snack or meal that combines the crunch of air-fried falafel with the coolness of creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 air fryer falafel (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Lettuce, tomato, pickled red onion, and cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chickpeas, breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into small patties and air-fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway.
4. Warm tortillas in the microwave or oven.
5. Assemble wraps by placing falafel on a tortilla, followed by tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomato, pickled red onion, and cilantro (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes for falafel
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries with Avocado Dip
Sweet Potato Fries with Avocado Dip Recipe
Get ready to indulge your senses with this mouthwatering combination of crispy sweet potato fries and creamy avocado dip, all made possible with the help of an air fryer!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch thick). Rinse with cold water to remove excess starch.
3. Pat the sweet potato strips dry with paper towels.
4. In a bowl, toss the sweet potatoes with salt, black pepper, and olive oil until evenly coated.
5. Load the air fryer basket with the sweet potatoes in batches if necessary, being careful not to overcrowd.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C), shaking halfway through.
7. Meanwhile, mash the avocado in a bowl with lime juice, garlic, and salt.
8. Serve the fries hot with the creamy avocado dip and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich
Air Fryer Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich: A Twist on a Classic!
Get ready to experience the taste of New Orleans in your own kitchen with this Air Fryer Shrimp Po’ Boy Sandwich. Succulent shrimp, crispy breading, and creamy remoulade sauce come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip shrimp into melted butter, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Cook shrimp in batches for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading remoulade sauce on hoagie rolls, adding cooked shrimp, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and serving immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Air Fryer Quesadillas with Salsa
Experience the perfect blend of crispy and cheesy with this simple recipe that yields mouthwatering quesadillas in no time. With the help of your air fryer, you’ll be enjoying a delicious snack or meal in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked chicken or beans for added protein
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Salsa of your choice (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together shredded cheese, chopped chicken or beans, and cilantro.
3. Place a tortilla in the air fryer basket and sprinkle half of the cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the quesadilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve with your favorite salsa and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (2-3 minutes per quesadilla)
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Sliders
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Sliders Recipe
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these mouthwatering Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Sliders! Crunchy, juicy chicken topped with melted mozzarella and tangy marinara sauce, all on a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8-10 slider buns
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Mozzarella cheese shreds, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place coated chicken pieces in the Air Fryer basket and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through, shaking halfway.
6. Assemble sliders by placing cooked chicken on buns, topping with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Aioli
These crispy and flavorful zucchini fritters are a perfect summer snack or side dish, paired with a rich garlic aioli dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Garlic Aioli (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine zucchini, flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the egg and mix until just combined.
4. Using a spoon or small scoop, drop the mixture into the air fryer basket in batches, leaving some space between each fritter.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot with Garlic Aioli (recipe below).
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Air Fryer Pork Dumplings with Soy Ginger Dip
Elevate your dumpling game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the convenience of air frying with a delicious soy ginger dipping sauce. Perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pork dumplings (about 20-24 pieces)
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the dumplings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
3. Cook the dumplings for 4-5 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
4. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
5. Serve the cooked dumplings with the soy ginger dip for dipping.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Air Fryer Turkey and Avocado Club Wrap
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and healthy wrap, featuring juicy turkey breast cooked to perfection in the air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/2 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1 cup mixed greens
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper. Place it in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, spread hummus on the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add the mixed greens, sliced avocado, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Once the turkey is cooked, slice it thinly and add it to the wrap.
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat wrap.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes for the turkey, plus assembly time.
Air Fryer Crispy Tofu Buddha Bowl
Transform your favorite Asian-inspired dish into a crispy, flavorful, and nutritious bowl with the help of an air fryer. This recipe yields a crispy tofu exterior and a tender interior, served atop a bed of fluffy brown rice and mixed vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and ginger.
3. Add the tofu cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Remove tofu from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Dredge tofu in cornstarch, shaking off any excess.
5. Air fry tofu for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Cook mixed vegetables according to package instructions.
7. Assemble the Buddha bowl by placing cooked tofu, mixed vegetables, and brown rice on a plate.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air Fryer Reuben Sandwich with Thousand Island
Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with this crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Air Fryer Reuben Sandwich! This recipe combines the classic Reuben flavors of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut with the creamy richness of Thousand Island dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 8 oz corned beef, thinly sliced
– 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 2 tbsp Thousand Island dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a slice of corned beef, some sauerkraut, and a sprinkle of Swiss cheese on each bread slice.
3. Brush the tops with Thousand Island dressing.
4. Place the sandwiches in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 6-8 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Air Fryer Loaded Nachos with Black Beans
Air Fryer Loaded Nachos with Black Beans
Transform your favorite nacho recipe into a healthier, flavorful dish using the air fryer! This recipe combines creamy black beans, melted cheese, and crispy tortilla chips for a delicious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 6-8 corn tortilla chips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: jalapeños, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together black beans, olive oil, onion, and garlic.
3. Load the air fryer basket with tortilla chips in a single layer.
4. Cook the tortilla chips for 5-6 minutes or until crispy.
5. Remove the tortilla chips from the air fryer and top with black bean mixture, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese.
6. Return the nachos to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Flatbread
Elevate your snack game with this mouthwatering Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Flatbread, featuring tender chicken, crispy flatbread, and a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 flatbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and olive oil.
4. Place the chicken in the Air Fryer basket and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, place the flatbread in the Air Fryer basket and toast for 2-3 minutes, or until crispy.
6. Assemble the flatbread by spreading BBQ sauce on top, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese, and finally, sliced chicken.
7. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Crab Cakes with Remoulade
Experience the flavors of the coast without leaving your kitchen! These air-fried crab cakes are packed with succulent lump crab meat, crispy texture, and a zesty remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten slightly into patties.
4. Place crab cakes in air fryer basket, leaving space between each cake.
5. Cook for 6-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes total (including prep and cooking)
Air Fryer Greek Chicken Gyros
Savor the flavors of Greece with this air fryer recipe that yields crispy, juicy chicken gyros packed with feta cheese, tomatoes, and creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, and red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and oregano. Add chicken breasts and coat evenly.
3. Air fry chicken for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads in the oven or microwave.
5. Assemble gyros by slicing chicken, adding feta cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve with tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers
Transform the classic Philly cheesesteak into a flavorful, stuffed pepper dish with the help of an air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped in half
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef or chicken breast
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the beef or chicken over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stuff each pepper half with the meat mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the filling.
6. Place the stuffed peppers in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
7. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready for deliciously quick and crispy air fryer lunch recipes! From classic comfort food to international twists, this list has got you covered. Try Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard or Crunchy Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Lime Crema. For a veggie fix, indulge in Air Fryer Veggie Spring Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce or Spicy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites. And don’t forget sweet treats like Air Fryer Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup or Crispy Air Fryer Falafel Wraps with Tzatziki. Whatever your craving, there’s an air fryer recipe to satisfy!
