Finally Got an Air Fryer? Great! Let’s Get Cooking
The air fryer has quickly become a kitchen favorite, and for good reason! It turns out crispy, golden, and delicious meals without all the oil. Some foods, though, are just made for the air fryer. From crispy fries to juicy chicken, these foods reach a whole new level of flavor and texture when cooked in an air fryer. Here are 14 foods that taste better if cooked in an air fryer:
1. French Fries
Hands down, the air fryer makes the best fries. They come out perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with way less oil than traditional frying. I like to toss them in a little olive oil and seasoning before popping them in, and they’re just next-level crispy.
2. Chicken Wings
Chicken wings are a classic air fryer food. The skin crisps up beautifully, and you don’t need to deep fry them in a vat of oil. Whether you like them spicy, saucy, or plain, the air fryer makes them golden and crispy every time. Bonus: they’re healthier too!
3. Brussels Sprouts
Air-fried Brussels sprouts are an absolute game-changer. The outer leaves crisp up to perfection while the insides stay tender and juicy. Toss them in a bit of olive oil and your favorite seasoning, and they’re ready to enjoy as a snack or side dish.
4. Mozzarella Sticks
If you love mozzarella sticks, you have to try them in the air fryer. The coating becomes perfectly crunchy, while the cheese inside melts into gooey, stringy deliciousness. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s way less greasy than deep-fried versions.
5. Onion Rings
Forget greasy, soggy onion rings – the air fryer makes them crispy and golden without all the oil. The batter gets perfectly crunchy while the onion stays sweet and tender. Dip them in some ketchup or spicy mayo for the best snack or side dish.
6. Potato Chips
Homemade potato chips made in an air fryer are absolutely delicious. Slice the potatoes thin, season them with salt (or your favorite seasoning), and air fry them for a snack that’s crispy, light, and way healthier than store-bought chips.
7. Fish Fillets
Air fryers are perfect for cooking fish. Whether it’s salmon, cod, or tilapia, the air fryer gives the fish a crispy outside while keeping it juicy and tender on the inside. It cooks in less time than the oven, and you’ll get a perfectly cooked fillet every time.
8. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries cooked in the air fryer are seriously addictive. The outside crisps up while the inside stays soft and fluffy. They’re naturally sweet, and when you add a sprinkle of seasoning, they become an irresistible snack or side dish.
9. Chicken Tenders
Chicken tenders in the air fryer are a total game-changer. They turn out crispy, golden, and juicy without needing to deep fry them. You can use store-bought breaded tenders or make your own – either way, they’ll come out perfect every time.
10. Apple Chips
For a healthy, sweet snack, try making apple chips in your air fryer. Slice apples thin, sprinkle with cinnamon and a little sugar, and air fry until crispy. They’re a great alternative to sugary snacks, and they’re deliciously sweet and crunchy.
11. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread made in the air fryer is crispy, buttery, and perfectly golden brown. The outside gets crunchy while the garlic butter soaks into the bread, creating the perfect bite. It’s faster than the oven and just as tasty (if not better!).
12. Spring Rolls
Air fryer spring rolls are a crispy delight. Whether you’re making homemade or using frozen, the air fryer gives the wrappers a perfect crunch without all the grease. Fill them with veggies, chicken, or shrimp, and you’ve got an irresistible appetizer or snack.
13. Breakfast Potatoes
Air-fried breakfast potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. You can toss them with your favorite seasonings, or keep it simple with just salt and pepper. They make a great side to eggs or bacon for a delicious breakfast or brunch.
14. Donuts
Did you know you can make donuts in your air fryer? Yep, it’s true! You can air-fry donut dough (or even use canned biscuit dough for a shortcut), and they come out golden and fluffy, with a light crisp on the outside. Top with sugar or glaze, and you’ve got yourself a sweet treat with way less guilt.
Wrapping Up
These 14 foods all taste better when cooked in the air fryer, delivering crispy, golden, and delicious results every time. Whether you’re cooking up a batch of fries or experimenting with sweet treats like donuts, the air fryer will make your meals faster, healthier, and tastier.
