Discover the ultimate list of the best foods to cook in an air fryer for quick, easy, and crispy meals!
Air fryers have taken home kitchens by storm, making it easier than ever to enjoy crispy, delicious food with little to no oil. Whether you’re a beginner or an air fryer pro, this guide will help you find the best foods to cook in an air fryer—from crunchy appetizers to juicy meats and even desserts!
Why Cook with an Air Fryer?
Before we dive into the best foods to make in an air fryer, let’s quickly go over why so many people love using this appliance:
✅ Healthier Cooking – Air frying requires up to 80% less oil than deep frying, making it a healthier alternative.
✅ Faster Cooking Times – Preheats quickly and cooks food faster than an oven.
✅ Crispy Texture – Achieve the perfect crunch without excess grease.
✅ Easy Cleanup – No messy oil splatters, and many parts are dishwasher-safe.
✅ Versatile – You can air fry meats, vegetables, frozen foods, and even desserts!
Now, let’s explore the best air fryer foods you can make today!
The Best Air Fryers of 2025
Best Air Fryer Snacks & Sides
1. French Fries
Crispy, golden fries are a must-try in the air fryer. They cook evenly and taste just like deep-fried fries but with a fraction of the oil.
How to Cook:
- Cut potatoes into thin strips, soak them in water for 30 minutes, then pat dry.
- Toss with a little oil and seasoning.
- Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway.
2. Sweet Potato Fries
For a healthier alternative, try air-fried sweet potato fries. They’re naturally sweet, crispy, and perfect for dipping!
3. Onion Rings
Crispy and golden, air-fried onion rings taste just like restaurant-style without the excess oil.
4. Mozzarella Sticks
Melty cheese inside a crispy, golden crust—these are perfectly air-fried in minutes.
5. Tater Tots
No more soggy oven-baked tater tots! The air fryer makes them crispy and golden brown every time.
6. Brussels Sprouts
Caramelized and crispy, air-fried Brussels sprouts are a game-changer. Just toss them with olive oil and seasoning before cooking.
7. Zucchini Chips
Thinly sliced and seasoned, these healthy chips turn out light, crunchy, and addictive.
8. Garlic Bread
Air fryer garlic bread is toasty, buttery, and ready in just minutes—perfect with pasta or soup.
Best Air Fryer Proteins
9. Chicken Wings
Want crispy, restaurant-quality wings without deep frying? The air fryer makes them golden and crunchy with no mess.
How to Cook:
- Pat wings dry, season, and air fry at 400°F (204°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Toss in your favorite sauce and enjoy!
10. Chicken Tenders
Juicy and crispy, air-fried chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to fried fast food.
11. Chicken Breast
Air frying keeps chicken moist and flavorful, making it great for meal prep.
12. Steak
Yes, you can air fry steak! It cooks evenly, gets a nice sear, and stays juicy inside.
13. Salmon
Flaky and tender, air fryer salmon cooks in just 10 minutes—great for a quick dinner.
14. Pork Chops
Perfectly cooked, juicy pork chops with a crispy crust—no need for deep frying.
15. Shrimp
Air-fried shrimp come out crispy and flavorful in under 10 minutes.
16. Tofu
For a vegetarian option, air-fried tofu turns out crispy on the outside and tender inside.
Best Air Fryer Vegetables
17. Broccoli
Air fryer broccoli gets a nice char and roasts beautifully in just minutes.
18. Cauliflower
Make crispy buffalo cauliflower bites or roast it with garlic and Parmesan.
19. Asparagus
Quick, easy, and perfectly roasted in the air fryer.
20. Mushrooms
Great for making crispy stuffed mushrooms or roasted mushroom bites.
21. Bell Peppers
Use the air fryer to roast peppers for fajitas, salads, or sandwiches.
Best Air Fryer Frozen Foods
22. Frozen French Fries
Skip the oven—air fryer frozen fries are faster and crispier!
23. Frozen Chicken Nuggets
Get crispy, golden nuggets in minutes.
24. Frozen Pizza Rolls
Perfectly crispy and gooey inside—better than microwaving.
25. Frozen Fish Sticks
Golden brown and crispy without deep frying.
Best Air Fryer Breakfast Foods
26. Bacon
Less greasy and perfectly crispy in just 8 minutes.
27. Hard-Boiled Eggs
No boiling water needed—just pop them in the air fryer!
28. Breakfast Sausages
Juicy and evenly cooked in minutes.
29. Hash Browns
Air fryer hash browns get extra crispy and taste just like diner-style.
Best Air Fryer Desserts & Baked Goods
30. Donuts
Make fluffy, golden-brown donuts in the air fryer—no deep frying needed.
31. Cookies
Perfectly baked soft or crispy cookies in minutes.
32. Brownies
Rich, fudgy, and baked to perfection.
33. Apple Chips
A healthy, crunchy snack with natural sweetness.
Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Food to Cook in an Air Fryer?
The best air fryer foods depend on your taste, but crispy snacks, juicy meats, and roasted veggies are some of the easiest and most delicious options. Whether you’re craving crispy fries, tender chicken, or even homemade donuts, the air fryer can do it all!
Ready to try these amazing air fryer recipes? Let me know in the comments which one you’re excited to make!
