13 Easy Air Fryer Dinner Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Looking for quick and delicious dinner ideas that won’t keep you in the kitchen all night? These easy air fryer dinner recipes are here to rescue your evenings! With minimal prep and cleanup, you can whip up tasty meals that the whole family will love in no time.

Air Fryer Chicken Breast

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner option, air fryer chicken breast is the way to go. It’s juicy, flavorful, and comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The air fryer gives the chicken a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist, so everyone at the table will be happy!

This recipe is simple and requires only a few ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. With just a sprinkle of your favorite seasonings, your chicken will be ready to shine. Plus, it pairs beautifully with any side dish you choose, from roasted vegetables to a fresh salad.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. Season: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.
3. Cook: Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Rest: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with your favorite sides.

Crispy Air Fryer Fish Fillets

These crispy air fryer fish fillets are a tasty and healthy option for dinner. They come out golden brown with a satisfying crunch, while the inside remains tender and flaky. The combination of spices and a hint of lemon makes each bite refreshing. Plus, it’s super easy to make, so even on busy nights, you can whip this up in no time!

The air fryer not only reduces the amount of oil needed but also cooks the fish evenly. Serve it with a side of vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 4 fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In another bowl, combine the beaten egg with lemon juice.
4. Dip each fish fillet in the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Air Fryer Pork Chops

Air fryer pork chops are a fantastic option for a quick and tasty dinner. They come out juicy and perfectly seasoned, with a crisp exterior that makes your mouth water. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight meal, yet impressive enough to serve guests.

The key to making these pork chops stand out is the combination of spices and the air fryer’s ability to lock in moisture. With minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prep the Pork Chops: Pat the pork chops dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely.
2. Season the Chops: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the pork chops. Drizzle with olive oil and massage it into the meat.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Pork Chops: Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve: Let the pork chops rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs

Air fryer turkey meatballs are a simple and tasty way to enjoy a healthy dinner. These meatballs are juicy, packed with flavor, and a great alternative to traditional beef meatballs. With a hint of herbs and spices, they make for a delightful meal that everyone will love.

Making these meatballs is quick and easy. You just mix the ingredients, roll them into balls, and let your air fryer do the work. They come out perfectly cooked with a nice crispy exterior, making them an excellent option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
2. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching.
4. Cook the meatballs for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Once they are golden brown and cooked through, remove them from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Air Fryer Salmon

Air fryer salmon is a delicious and healthy dinner option that’s incredibly easy to make. With its tender texture and rich flavor, this dish brings together the perfect blend of seasonings to elevate the taste of the salmon, making it a hit at the dinner table. Plus, the air fryer ensures a beautifully crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky.

In just a matter of minutes, you can enjoy a gourmet meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant. It’s a perfect dish for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. This air fryer salmon pairs wonderfully with a side of veggies or a light salad.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Brush the mixture over both sides of the salmon fillets.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Once cooked, drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp

Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp is a quick and tasty dinner option that brings the crunch without the guilt. This dish features succulent shrimp coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture that delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite. Perfectly seasoned and cooked in the air fryer, you’ll get a delightful seafood experience that’s ready in no time.

This recipe is super simple and doesn’t require deep frying, making it a healthier alternative for busy weeknights. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce and some lemon for an extra zing, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, place the flour seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In a second bowl, add the beaten eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
3. Bread the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated.
4. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
5. Cook the Shrimp: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and spray the tops lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve: Remove the shrimp from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and lemon wedges.

Air Fryer Bbq Chicken Wings

If you’re craving something crispy and packed with flavor, air fryer BBQ chicken wings are the perfect choice. This simple recipe results in tender wings with a smoky, tangy BBQ sauce that will satisfy any hunger. Plus, using an air fryer makes them healthier than traditional fried wings without sacrificing that delightful crunch.

These chicken wings are not only easy to make but also customizable. You can adjust the spice level or even experiment with different sauces to find the perfect combination for your taste buds. Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner, these wings are sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, tossing to coat evenly.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Wings: Arrange the seasoned wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are crispy and golden brown.
4. Add BBQ Sauce: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the wings generously with BBQ sauce, letting it caramelize a bit.
5. Serve: Remove the wings from the air fryer and serve hot with extra BBQ sauce and your favorite dipping sides.

Air Fryer Turkey Burgers

Air fryer turkey burgers are not only simple to make, but they also deliver a deliciously juicy flavor with a delightful crunch. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative to traditional beef burgers, turkey is a great choice that still satisfies your cravings. The air fryer cooks them evenly while keeping them moist, making dinner a breeze.

These turkey burgers are ideal for a quick weeknight meal. You can customize them with your favorite toppings and serve them on a toasted bun with fresh veggies. Plus, they pair perfectly with a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Burger buns
• Condiments and toppings (lettuce, tomato, onion, etc.)

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. If using cheese, make a small indentation in the center of each patty and place cheese inside, then mold the turkey around it.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Place the patties in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not crowded. Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. While the burgers are cooking, toast the burger buns if desired. Once the burgers are done, assemble them with your favorite toppings and serve immediately.

Air Fryer Italian Sausage And Peppers

This Air Fryer Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. The juicy sausages paired with sweet bell peppers create a satisfying dish that bursts with flavor. It’s simple to make and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

The air fryer cooks the sausages to perfection—crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside—while the peppers add a colorful, sweet contrast. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 4 Italian sausages (your choice of spicy or mild)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 orange bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced peppers and onion. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Place the seasoned vegetables in the air fryer basket. Arrange the sausages on top.
4. Cook at 380°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Check that the sausages are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C). Serve hot and enjoy!

Air Fryer Coconut Breaded Tilapia

Air Fryer Coconut Breaded Tilapia is a fantastic dish that combines the lightness of tilapia with a crunchy coconut coating. This recipe brings together a hint of sweetness from the coconut and a crispy texture that will make your taste buds dance. It’s an easy dish to whip up, taking only a few minutes of prep time and a short cook time in the air fryer, making it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner.

The tilapia fillets are light and flaky, while the coconut breading adds a wonderful flavor and crunch. Pair it with a fresh salad or some zesty lime for a refreshing meal that feels gourmet without the fuss!

Ingredients

• 2 tilapia fillets
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• Cooking spray or olive oil for spraying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Breading: In a shallow bowl, mix shredded coconut, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Coat the Fish: Dip each tilapia fillet into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off. Then press the fillets into the coconut mixture, coating both sides well.
3. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated tilapia in the fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Spray lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
4. Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with lime wedges and your choice of sides.

Air Fryer Steak

Cooking steak in an air fryer is a game changer for busy weeknights. It’s quick, easy, and results in a juicy, flavorful piece of meat that pairs perfectly with your favorite sides. The air fryer cooks the steak evenly and gives it a lovely sear, making it taste like it came straight from a grill.

This recipe is simple to follow, requiring just a few ingredients. The combination of spices can be adjusted to suit your taste, allowing you to enjoy a personalized steak experience. It’s a delightful dinner option that never disappoints!

Ingredients

• 2 ribeye steaks
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel. Rub them with olive oil, then season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
3. Cook the Steaks: Place the seasoned steaks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Adjust the time based on your preferred level of doneness.
4. Rest and Serve: Once cooked to your liking, remove the steaks from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs are a tasty and simple dish that combines the sweetness of honey with rich garlic flavors. The chicken thighs cook to crispy perfection while remaining juicy inside. This dish is quick to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

The honey garlic glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving the chicken a sticky, mouth-watering finish. Serve it with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
4. Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer. Drizzle with any remaining glaze, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Air Fryer Teriyaki Tofu

Air Fryer Teriyaki Tofu is a delightful dish that’s both simple to create and bursting with flavor. The tofu gets a crispy texture in the air fryer while soaking up the sweet and savory notes of teriyaki sauce. It’s a perfect option for a quick dinner that feels satisfying yet healthy.

This recipe is not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare. The combination of tender tofu and a glossy teriyaki glaze makes for an impressive meal that pairs beautifully with rice or steamed veggies. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy plant-based protein!

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and pressed
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions for garnish
• Cooked rice or quinoa for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tofu: Cut the pressed tofu into bite-sized cubes and place them in a bowl.
2. Marinate: Add the teriyaki sauce and sesame oil to the tofu. Toss gently to coat and let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
3. Coat: Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated tofu and toss again to ensure an even coating.
4. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the tofu in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until crispy and golden.
5. Serve: Once cooked, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. Serve the tofu over cooked rice or quinoa, drizzling any remaining teriyaki sauce over it.