Finding time to cook a delicious dinner every night can be a real challenge. Between work, family commitments, and trying to carve out some personal time, who has hours to spend in the kitchen? Luckily, that’s where easy air fryer dinner recipes come to the rescue, making meal prep quick and easy.

Here are some of our favorite air fryer dinner recipes that are perfect for those busy weeknights. These recipes are quick, tasty, and hassle-free that can offer both nutritious and delicious dinner for everyone!

Great Easy Air Fryer Dinner Recipes and Ideas

1. Chicken Parmesan

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
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Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
For the crispiest Chicken Parmesan, all you need is an air fryer: It tastes like your favo rite version, just without adding a single drop of oil.
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Prep: 10min
Ingredients
  • skinless boneless chicken breasts
    2 skinless boneless chicken breasts large
  • kosher salt
    kosher salt
  • freshly ground black pepper
    freshly ground black pepper
  • all purpose flour
    0.33 c all purpose flour
  • eggs
    2 eggs large
  • panko bread crumbs
    1 c panko bread crumbs
  • parmesan
    0.25 c parmesan freshly grated
  • dried oregano
    1 tsp dried oregano
  • crushed red pepper flakes
    0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • garlic powder
    0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • marinara
    1 c marinara
  • shredded mozzarella
    1 c shredded mozzarella
  • parsley
    parsley freshly chopped, for garnish

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved classic, and the air fryer makes it even better by achieving a crispy, golden crust without all the oil. Imagine juicy chicken breasts coated in breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, air-fried to perfection, then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. Serve it with a side of pasta or a fresh garden salad, and you’ve got a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Plus, it’s so quick to whip up, making it perfect for those nights when you want something comforting yet not too time-consuming.

2. Garlic and Herb Salmon

Garlic and Herb Air Fryer Salmon
Garlic and Herb Air Fryer Salmon is one of the easiest and tastiest weeknight dinners you can make. Top your favorite salad with it or pair it with some steamed rice and sautéed veggies. So simple and so good!
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Prep: 10min Cook: 10min
Ingredients
  • olive oil
    3 tablespoons olive oil
  • garlic cloves
    3 garlic cloves minced
  • thyme
    2 teaspoons thyme minced
  • chives
    2 teaspoons chives thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
  • dill
    1 teaspoon dill minced
  • lemon
    1 lemon zest and juice of
  • boneless salmon fillets
    3 X 6 ounce boneless salmon fillets skin on or off depending on preference
  • salt
    salt to taste
  • pepper
    pepper to taste
  • crushed red pepper flakes
    crushed red pepper flakes

With a simple garlic and herb marinade, you can have a gourmet air fryer dinner ready in no time. The air fryer ensures the salmon is cooked to perfection—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Pair it with steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a healthy, satisfying meal that feels indulgent without being heavy. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The marinade infuses the salmon with rich flavors, and the air fryer locks in moisture while giving the fish a beautiful, crisp finish. It’s a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal that doesn’t feel like a compromise!

3. Veggie-Packed Chicken Fajitas

Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas: Whole30, Paleo, Keto, GF Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas: Whole30, Paleo, Keto, GF
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Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas: Whole30, Paleo, Keto, GF
Whole30 air fryer chicken fajitas are perfect for a quick but healthy weeknight meal. Thes e paleo air fryer chicken fajitas can be on the table in under 30 minutes and are also gluten-free, keto, and definitely whole family approved. Eat right away or meal prep for the next day but either way this chicken air fryer recipe is delicious.
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Prep: 10min Cook: 15min
Ingredients
  • chicken breast
    1 lb chicken breast thinly sliced
  • red pepper
    1 red pepper stem and seeds removed and thinly sliced
  • green pepper
    1 green pepper stem and seeds removed and thinly sliced
  • red onion
    0.5 cup red onion sliced
  • fajita seasoning
    1 tbsp fajita seasoning
  • olive oil
    1 tbsp olive oil or avocado

These fajitas are full of veggies and packed with nutrients! Loaded with colorful bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious. This air fryer dinner recipe works perfectly because brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables while giving them a slight char, making them taste like they came straight off the grill. You can easily switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand, and they always turn out great. The air fryer does an excellent job of caramelizing the vegetables, making every bite bursting with flavor. Wrap them up in a warm tortilla with your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa, and dinner is served.

4. Crispy Fish Tacos

Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
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Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
These Air Fryer Fish Tacos are ready start to finish in about 15 minutes. Toss a simple Ci lantro Lime Slaw together while the fish air fries and you will have the perfect taco dinner. Use your favorite white fish: tilapia, mahi mahi, cod, etc. A weeknight dinner that is so simple and one that everyone will love!
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Prep: 5min Cook: 10min
Ingredients
  • tilapia fish
    1.5 lb tilapia fish or white, mahi mahi, cod, etc
  • chili powder
    1 tsp chili powder
  • oregano
    0.5 tsp oregano
  • garlic powder
    0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • paprika
    0.5 tsp paprika
  • cayenne
    0.25 tsp cayenne more or less for spiciness
  • onion powder
    0.25 tsp onion powder
  • cumin
    0.25 tsp cumin
  • sea salt
    0.5 tsp sea salt
  • cracked pepper
    0.5 tsp cracked pepper
  • cole slaw mix
    2.5 c cole slaw mix
  • mayonnaise
    3 t mayonnaise
  • lime juice
    1 t lime juice
  • garlic clove
    1 garlic clove minced
  • cilantro
    0.33 c cilantro chopped
  • sugar
    0.5 tsp sugar optional
  • sea salt
    0.25 sea salt more or less to taste
  • cracked pepper
    0.25 tsp cracked pepper
  • tortillas
    tortillas
  • lime juice
    lime juice extra

Sticking with the theme of Mexican air fryer dinner recipes, who doesn’t love a good taco? These crispy fish tacos are bursting with flavor and come together in just minutes. The air fryer makes it easy to get that perfect crunch without deep frying. Top them with crunchy coleslaw and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing contrast, and you’ve got a fiesta on your plate! These tacos are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.

But why stop there? You can take these tacos to the next level with some simple yet delicious accompaniments. A homemade coleslaw, made with finely shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing, adds a fresh and crunchy element that complements the fish perfectly.

And don’t forget the salsa! Whether you go for a classic tomato salsa, a zesty mango salsa, or a spicy jalapeño salsa, it will add a burst of flavor that enhances the tacos even more.

5. Cheesy Stuffed Peppers

Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers
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Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers
Make a delicious dinner, in a matter of minutes with this Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers recipe ! Filled with Italian Sausage, cauliflower rice, mushrooms and yummy cheese.. who say's dinner has to be so much work!
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Prep: 10min Cook: 20min
Ingredients
  • green bell peppers
    4 green bell peppers tops and seeds removed
  • ground italian sausage
    1 pound ground italian sausage
  • Mushrooms
    8 ounces Mushrooms finely chopped, I use baby bella mushrooms
  • cloves garlic
    2 cloves garlic minced
  • cauliflower rice
    12 ounces cauliflower rice
  • shredded monterey jack cheese
    1.5 cups shredded monterey jack cheese
  • kosher salt
    kosher salt
  • pepper
    pepper to taste

The air fryer works its magic on these peppers, cooking them to absolute perfection. They come out tender but still firm enough to hold their shape, which is exactly what you want. The filling, which you can totally customize with your favorite herbs and spices, turns out juicy and packed with flavor. And let’s not forget the gooey cheese topping – it melts beautifully and gets that perfect crispy edge. The combination of textures is what makes this dish a standout. You get a slight crunch from the peppers, a hearty and flavorful filling, and that deliciously melted cheese on top.

6. Beef Meatballs

Air Fryer Meatballs Air Fryer Meatballs
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Air Fryer Meatballs
These Air Fryer Meatballs are stuffed with mozzarella and "fry" up into crispy perfection.
Prep: 10min
Ingredients
  • ground beef
    1 lb ground beef
  • bread crumbs
    0.5 c bread crumbs
  • parmesan
    0.25 c parmesan freshly grated
  • parsley
    0.25 c parsley freshly chopped
  • egg
    1 egg large
  • cloves garlic
    2 cloves garlic minced
  • dried oregano
    1 tsp dried oregano
  • kosher salt
    kosher salt
  • freshly ground black pepper
    freshly ground black pepper
  • fresh mozzarella
    3 oz fresh mozzarella cut into 16 cubes
  • marinara
    marinara for serving

Meatballs are a versatile and family-friendly option. Though they’re normally done on the stove top, this easy air fryer recipe version is a real winner. They can be served over pasta with marinara sauce, in a sub sandwich, or with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy. They’re perfect for meal prep and can be used in a variety of dishes. For a different twist, serve your air-fried meatballs with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and savory gravy. This combination makes for a hearty meal that’s perfect for those days when you need a little extra warmth and comfort.

7. Sweet and Sour Cauliflower

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Sweet and Sour Air Fryer Cauliflower
Sweet & sour cauliflower recipe made at home with the air fryer. This traditional stir-fry recipe is usually made with pork but this vegetarian option makes use of the air fryer to crisp up the cauliflower pieces.
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Prep: 15min Cook: 15min
Ingredients
  • cauliflower florets
    700 g cauliflower florets
  • olive oil
    2 tablespoons olive oil
  • cornflour
    2 tablespoons cornflour
  • oil
    1 tablespoon oil
  • onion
    1 onion cut into wedges
  • red capsicum
    1 red capsicum sliced
  • pineapple pieces in natural juice
    440 g pineapple pieces in natural juice can
  • Tomato Sauce
    0.5 cup Rosella Tomato Sauce Organic
  • soy sauce
    0.33 cup soy sauce
  • white vinegar
    0.33 cup white vinegar
  • water
    0.5 cup water
  • white rice
    white rice steamed, to serve
  • sesame seeds
    2 teaspoons sesame seeds
  • green onions
    green onions sliced, to garnish

For a delicious vegetarian option, try sweet and sour cauliflower. This dish is not only easy to make but also packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Start by air frying cauliflower florets until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The air fryer works wonders here, giving the cauliflower a perfect texture without the need for excessive oil. Once the cauliflower is beautifully crisp, toss it in a tangy sweet and sour sauce that you can whip up in no time. The sauce, with its balance of sweetness from ingredients like pineapple juice or sugar, and tanginess from vinegar, coats each floret beautifully, turning a simple vegetable into a flavorful meal! See, air fryer dinners don’t have to mean meat!

8. Crispy Fish and Chips

Beer Battered Air Fryer Fish Beer Battered Air Fryer Fish
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Beer Battered Air Fryer Fish
We adore this air fryer beer battered fish. Super flaky and buttery fish is coated in a li ght and crispy beer batter, easily made in the air fryer in under 15 minutes without any deep frying. It's so delicious served with our flavor slaw and tartar sauce!
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Prep: 30min Cook: 15min
Ingredients
  • fresh cod
    1 pound fresh cod cut into 4 filets
  • all-purpose flour
    2 cups all-purpose flour
  • garlic powder
    1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • onion powder
    0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • smoked paprika
    0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • salt
    0.5 teaspoon salt
  • black pepper
    0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly cracked
  • beer
    12 ounces beer I like to use a light wheat beer
  • pickled onions
    pickled onions for serving
  • lemon wedges
    lemon wedges for serving
  • mayonnaise
    0.75 cup mayonnaise
  • sweet relish
    0.5 cup sweet relish
  • lemon
    0.5 lemon juiced
  • salt
    pinch salt
  • pepper
    pinch pepper
  • green cabbage
    4 cups green cabbage shredded
  • red onion
    0.5 red onion thinly sliced
  • fresh cilantro
    0.33 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • freshly squeezed lime juice
    2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • olive oil
    3 tablespoons olive oil
  • kosher salt
    kosher salt
  • pepper
    pepper

Recreate a beloved pub favorite right in your own kitchen with this simple yet delicious air fryer dinner recipe. Start by coating white fish fillets in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they’re evenly covered for that perfect crispy exterior. Then, pop them into the air fryer and let it work its magic until they turn beautifully golden and crunchy. What’s great about using the air fryer for fish and chips is that you get all the texture and flavor of traditional deep-frying without the need for excessive oil. The air fryer crisps up the breadcrumb coating to perfection, giving you that satisfying crunch with a fraction of the calories and fat. It’s a healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice on taste or texture.

white plates with assorted foods

Tips for Air Fryer Dinner Success

To get the most out of your air fryer dinner recipes and ensure your meals turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Don’t Overcrowd: Give your food space to breathe! Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and prevent that coveted crispy texture. If you have a lot of food to cook, it’s better to do it in batches.

Shake It Up: For items like fries or veggies, shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure everything cooks evenly. This little step can make a big difference in achieving uniform crispiness.

Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer can help with even cooking. It only takes a few minutes but can significantly impact the final result.

Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new things! The air fryer is incredibly versatile, so have fun experimenting with different recipes and ingredients. Whether it’s trying out a new spice blend or using the air fryer for baking, the possibilities are endless.

Reheat: If you have leftovers, the air fryer is perfect for reheating anything from steak to chicken wings and everything in between.