15 Healthy Air Fryer Recipes for Guilt-Free Indulgence

Healthy cooking can be both delicious and satisfying, especially with an air fryer. The air fryer is a great tool for anyone looking to eat healthier. It can create crispy, flavorful meals with less oil. From appetizers to main courses, the variety of recipes you can make is vast.

In this article, you will discover simple and tasty air fryer recipes that promote a balanced diet. These recipes are not only easy to prepare but also designed to help you enjoy your meals while maintaining your health goals. Get ready to explore the wonderful world of healthy air frying!

1) Air-Fryer Buffalo Wings

Air-fryer buffalo wings are a tasty choice for a healthy snack. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Plus, they are ready in about 30 minutes!

To make these wings, first coat them in your favorite buffalo sauce. The air fryer cooks them evenly while keeping the skin crispy. It’s a simple way to enjoy a classic dish without deep frying.

You can serve these wings with homemade ranch or celery sticks for a complete treat. Your friends and family will love them!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• Olive oil spray
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse and pat dry the chicken wings.
3. Season wings with salt and pepper.
4. Lightly spray wings with olive oil.
5. Cook in the air fryer for 25 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Toss cooked wings in buffalo sauce and serve.

2) Crispy Air-Fryer Chicken Tenders

Crispy air-fryer chicken tenders are a tasty and healthy choice for any meal. You can enjoy these delicious tenders without the extra oil used in traditional frying.

To make your chicken tenders, start by seasoning your chicken pieces. You can use simple spices like salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Next, place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry them at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Flip them halfway to ensure they cook evenly.

These tenders are great for dipping in your favorite sauces or served alongside veggies.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of chicken tenders
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Cooking spray

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray.
4. Place chicken in the basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3) Air-Fryer Falafel

Air-fryer falafel is a tasty and healthy twist on the traditional Middle Eastern dish. It’s made mainly from chickpeas and fresh herbs. This recipe gives you a crunchy outside and a soft inside without deep frying.

To make falafel, you can use soaked dried chickpeas or canned ones for convenience. Combine them with fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, and spices to create a flavorful mix.

Cooking in the air fryer helps to reduce oil and maintains a crispy texture. Aim for a cooking temperature of 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight) or one 15-ounce can chickpeas
• 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
• ¾ cup fresh cilantro leaves
• ½ cup fresh dill (stems removed)
• 7-8 garlic cloves
• 1 small onion, quartered
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon cayenne
• Kosher salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a food processor, blend soaked chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, dill, garlic, onion, and spices until mixed.
2. Shape the mixture into small balls or patties.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Spray the basket with cooking spray.
5. Place falafel in the basket in a single layer. Spray the tops lightly.
6. Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.

4) Air-Fryer Stuffed Peppers

Air-fryer stuffed peppers are a delicious and healthy meal option. They are quick to make and packed with flavor. You can use a variety of fillings depending on your taste.

To make them, start with bell peppers. You can stuff them with a mix of ground turkey or beef, quinoa or rice, and veggies. This keeps the dish nutritious and filling.

Cooking in the air fryer gives you tender peppers in less time than baking in the oven. With just 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C), you’ll have a tasty meal ready to enjoy.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers
• 1 pound ground turkey or beef
• 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• Cheese (optional, for topping)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix the ground meat, quinoa or rice, onions, and corn.
4. Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes until tender and the cheese bubbles.

5) Crispy Air-Fryer Brussel Sprouts

Crispy air-fryer Brussels sprouts are a tasty and healthy side dish. They cook quickly and are easy to make. You can customize them with different seasonings or toppings.

Start with fresh Brussels sprouts. Cut them in half and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add garlic for extra flavor.

Place them in your air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

For a special touch, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or drizzle some balsamic glaze before serving.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) Brussels sprouts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: garlic, Parmesan cheese, balsamic glaze

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut Brussels sprouts in half.
3. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Place in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway.
6. Add optional toppings before serving.

6) Air-Fryer Baked Potatoes

Air-fryer baked potatoes are a fantastic choice for a healthy side dish. They turn out crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Plus, using an air fryer makes the cooking process quicker and easier.

To make your air-fryer baked potatoes, start by washing and drying them thoroughly. You can rub them with a little oil and add your favorite seasonings for extra flavor.

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the potatoes for about 35-40 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Ingredients

• 2 medium-sized potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Wash and dry the potatoes.
2. Rub with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
4. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway.

7) Air-Fryer Zucchini Fries

Air-fryer zucchini fries are a tasty and healthier snack. They are crispy and easy to make. You can enjoy them as an appetizer or a side dish.

To prepare, start by cutting zucchini into fry shapes. This gives you the perfect size for baking. You’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Next, coat the zucchini with a light layer of olive oil. Sprinkle your favorite seasoning or breadcrumbs for extra flavor. Place the zucchini in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure they cook evenly.

Cook for about 6-8 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. You might need to do this in batches if your air fryer is small.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• Olive oil spray
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: breadcrumbs or seasoning

Cooking Instructions

1. Cut zucchini into fry shapes.
2. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
3. Spray olive oil on zucchini.
4. Season with salt and pepper or breadcrumbs.
5. Place in air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 6-8 minutes until crispy.

8) Lemon and Herb Air-Fryer Salmon

Lemon and herb air-fryer salmon is a delicious and healthy meal. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic herbs enhances the natural flavor of the salmon. Using an air fryer makes this dish quick and easy to prepare.

To start, season your salmon fillets with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and your choice of herbs like dill or parsley. This will create a vibrant flavor that brightens the fish.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned salmon in the basket and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes. This will result in tender, flaky salmon that is cooked perfectly.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets (about 1 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh herbs (dill or parsley)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Season the salmon with lemon juice, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
3. Place the salmon in the air fryer basket.
4. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until done.

9) Air-Fryer Veggie Chips

Making air-fryer veggie chips is a simple and healthy snack option. You can use various vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or beets. This method gives you crispy chips without deep frying.

Start by slicing your veggies thinly, about 1/16 inch thick. You can use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife for even slices.

Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 5 minutes. Arrange the veggie slices in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 20-30 minutes, flipping the chips every 5 minutes for even cooking.

Ingredients

• 2 medium potatoes (or your choice of vegetable)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Thinly slice the vegetables.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
3. Toss the slices in olive oil and seasonings.
4. Arrange slices in a single layer in the fryer.
5. Air fry for 20-30 minutes, flipping every 5 minutes.

10) Air-Fryer Avocado Egg Rolls

Air-fryer avocado egg rolls are a tasty and healthy choice for a snack or appetizer. These rolls have a crispy outer layer and a creamy, flavorful filling. You can make them quickly and easily in your air fryer.

To prepare, you’ll need ripe avocados, onions, and cilantro for that fresh flavor. You can also add sun-dried tomatoes for extra taste. Wrapping the mixture in egg roll wrappers creates the perfect bite.

Cooking them in the air fryer reduces fat compared to traditional frying, making them a smarter option. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook until golden brown.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados
• ¼ cup diced onion
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
• 8 egg roll wrappers
• Cooking spray

Cooking Instructions

1. Mash the avocados in a bowl.
2. Mix in onion, cilantro, and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Place a spoonful of the mixture on each wrapper.
4. Roll and seal the wrappers.
5. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
6. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
7. Cook egg rolls for 10-12 minutes until crispy.

11) Sweet Potato Air-Fryer Chips

Making sweet potato chips in the air fryer is easy and tasty. They are a healthier alternative to traditional chips and pack a lot of flavor.

Start by washing and peeling two medium sweet potatoes. Slice them thin, aiming for uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly. You can soak the slices in cold water for about 20 minutes to help them crisp up.

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the sweet potato slices in a single layer.

Air fry them at 380°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes. Remember to shake the basket halfway through to get even cooking.

Once done, you’ll have delicious, crispy chips ready to enjoy!

Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes
• Pinch of sea salt
• Optional: black pepper, non-stick cooking spray

Cooking Instructions

1. Wash and peel the sweet potatoes.
2. Slice them thinly and soak in cold water for 20 minutes.
3. Drain and pat dry the slices.
4. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
5. Arrange slices in a single layer in the basket.
6. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

12) Air-Fryer Cauliflower Bites

Air-fryer cauliflower bites are a tasty and healthy snack. They are easy to make and come out crispy without the extra oil from frying.

To start, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This helps the cauliflower cook evenly.

Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.

In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and your favorite seasonings.

Dip each floret in melted butter, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture.

Arrange the coated cauliflower in the air fryer basket, making sure they are in a single layer.

Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Your cauliflower bites will be crispy and ready to enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Seasonings (like Italian herbs)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
3. Mix panko, parmesan, and seasonings in a bowl.
4. Dip each floret in melted butter, coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Arrange in air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.

13) Air-Fryer Apple Chips

Air-fryer apple chips are a simple and tasty snack. You can enjoy these crunchy treats without added sugar or oil. They are healthy and perfect for any time of the day.

To make them, slice your apples thinly. You can use a mandolin for even slices. This helps them cook evenly.

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

Place the apple slices in a single layer in the basket. Optionally, you can sprinkle some cinnamon for extra flavor.

Cook them for about 15-20 minutes, checking often to avoid burning. You’ll know they are done when they are crispy and lightly golden.

Ingredients

• 2 apples
• Ground cinnamon (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Slice the apples thinly.
2. Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
3. Place apple slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes, checking regularly.

14) Garlic Parmesan Air-Fryer Asparagus

Garlic Parmesan air-fryer asparagus is a simple and tasty side dish. This recipe combines fresh asparagus with garlic and Parmesan cheese for a delightful flavor. It’s quick to prepare and cooks in just a few minutes.

Start by tossing your asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This adds a nice flavor while cooking.

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch.

Next, place the asparagus in your air fryer. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 7-10 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Enjoy your crispy, flavorful asparagus alongside any main dish. It’s a great way to add veggies to your meal!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) fresh asparagus
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss asparagus with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place asparagus in the air fryer basket.
4. Cook for 7-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve.

15) Air-Fryer Shrimp Tacos

Air-fryer shrimp tacos are a quick and healthy meal. You can enjoy them with a crunchy texture and delicious flavor. Using an air fryer keeps the shrimp tender while reducing the extra oil that comes with frying.

For this recipe, you’ll season large shrimp with spices and air fry them until they’re perfectly cooked.

You can warm the tortillas in the air fryer too, making them soft and ready for filling.

Add your favorite toppings, like cabbage, avocado, and a squeeze of lime, to make these tacos even more delicious. They’re perfect for lunch or dinner and are sure to impress your family.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas
• Toppings (avocado, cabbage, lime, etc.)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil and spices.
3. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-7 minutes.
4. Warm tortillas in the air fryer for 1 minute.
5. Assemble tacos with cooked shrimp and your favorite toppings.
6. Enjoy!