27 air fryer appetizers that don’t need a deep fryer

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I love making appetizers that are quick, easy, and don’t leave my kitchen smelling like a deep fryer. With the air fryer, I can get that same golden crisp and great flavor in a fraction of the time, and without all the mess. It’s my go-to for snacks that feel special but are simple enough to whip up any day of the week.

A person dips a crispy pasta chip into a bowl of marinara, with more chips visible in the background.
Air Fryer Pasta Chips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Close-up of a hand holding a seasoned chicken wing garnished with fresh herbs, with more pieces on a plate in the background.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These wings come out with a crisp exterior and juicy meat, all without a deep fryer. The lemon and pepper seasoning gives them a fresh kick that works well for casual snacking. They cook up quickly, making them an easy choice for last-minute get-togethers. Using the air fryer keeps things cleaner and faster than pan-frying. Perfect for serving when you want a flavorful bite that doesn’t need a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Chicken Nuggets

Hand dipping a chicken nugget into a bowl of ketchup, with a gray cloth background.
Chicken Nuggets. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These nuggets turn golden and crunchy in the air fryer while staying tender inside. They’re quick to make, making them ideal for busy days or when guests drop in. You don’t have to deal with heavy oil or long cleanup times. They work well for kids and adults alike, especially when paired with dipping sauces. It’s a simple snack that’s easy to keep on hand and ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

A single barbecued chicken skewer on a white plate, with a small bowl of barbecue sauce and a parsley garnish, next to a plate of additional chicken skewers.
Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Juicy chunks of chicken cook evenly in the air fryer, making these skewers a convenient pick for small gatherings. They’re ready fast and require little hands-on time. The stick presentation makes them easy to grab and eat without plates. Cooking without a deep fryer means less mess and less waiting. They’re a fun option for serving a group without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

Close-up of a pastry topped with cranberries and a sprig of rosemary.
Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pastry bites combine flaky layers with creamy brie and a touch of cranberry for a mix of textures and flavors. The air fryer crisps the pastry without needing extra oil. They’re quick to assemble, so they work well when you want something that looks special but takes little effort. Their small size makes them easy to pass around at a party. Perfect when you need a warm snack that’s ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Grilled shrimp skewers with red and green bell peppers, served with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce on a white plate.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These shrimp skewers cook fast in the air fryer and turn out tender with a light char. They’re great for quick entertaining since they require minimal prep. Skewers make them easy to serve and eat without extra dishes. No deep frying means you keep the natural flavor of the shrimp without added heaviness. They’re a fresh, easy snack for seafood lovers.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

A plate of freshly cooked Filipino banana turon lumpia spring rolls.
Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These sweet rolls turn crisp in the air fryer without needing a deep oil bath. The warm banana filling makes them a comforting snack. They’re easy to prepare ahead of time and cook quickly when needed. Serving them fresh keeps the wrapper light and crunchy. They work well for sharing at casual gatherings or as a quick sweet bite after a meal.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Pasta chips in a white bowl.
Air Fryer Pasta Chips. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pasta chips cook up crunchy and light in the air fryer without soaking in oil. They’re quick to make and easy to season however you like. Perfect for pairing with dips at a gathering. The cleanup is minimal compared to stovetop frying. They’re a fun way to turn pantry pasta into a ready-to-eat snack.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Fried chicken tenders on a plate with dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These tenders stay juicy inside while getting a crisp coating in the air fryer. They’re quick enough for weeknight snacking or casual get-togethers. You avoid the mess and oil of deep frying. They pair well with almost any dipping sauce. Easy to make in batches, they’re perfect for when you need a reliable crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

A basket of crispy roasted pork belly chunks garnished with parsley, served in a white paper-lined wicker basket.
Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These pork belly bites crisp up evenly in the air fryer, giving you crunchy edges without deep-frying. They cook faster than traditional methods. Small pieces make them easy to serve as finger food. The air fryer keeps the cleanup manageable. Ideal when you want a savory, bite-sized snack for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

Bacon wrapped pineapple on a white plate.
Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

The air fryer crisps the bacon while keeping the pineapple juicy and warm. This sweet and savory mix makes for a quick party bite. They’re ready in minutes and don’t require constant attention. No deep frying means less mess in the kitchen. These bites are easy to serve and disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

Three bacon-wrapped pieces of chicken on a white plate with a sprig of parsley and a red and white checkered cloth on the side.
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These bites combine tender chicken with crisp bacon, all cooked quickly in the air fryer. They’re easy to make ahead and cook right before serving. The air fryer keeps them from becoming greasy. They’re a hearty snack that works well for game days or casual parties. Their small size makes them easy to grab and eat.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

A bowl of bacon-wrapped cocktail sausages served on a bed of fresh green herbs.
Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Little smokies wrapped in bacon turn crisp in the air fryer without extra oil. They’re simple to prepare and cook quickly. These make an easy choice for feeding a crowd with minimal effort. They keep their flavor without the heaviness of deep frying. Perfect for serving at gatherings where finger foods are a must.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Three pieces of bacon-wrapped salmon bites garnished with parsley on a white plate.
Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These salmon bites stay moist while the bacon crisps in the air fryer. They’re ready in a short time and don’t need constant monitoring. No deep frying keeps the flavors clean and fresh. They work well for small plates or appetizer spreads. Their bite-size shape makes them easy to enjoy in a group setting.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer

A hand holding a bacon-wrapped shrimp dipped in a small bowl of sauce, with a green leaf garnish on the side.
Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

The air fryer crisps the bacon while keeping the shrimp tender. These cook quickly, making them great for last-minute plans. No deep fryer means less cleanup and less oil. Their small size makes them perfect for passing around. They bring a nice mix of textures to any appetizer table.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer

Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

A spoon lifting a smashed potato garnished with rosemary, with a festive table setting in the background.
Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These smashed potatoes get crisp edges and melted cheese without needing a deep fryer. They’re quick to prepare and easy to serve in batches. The air fryer cuts down on oil and cleanup. They’re hearty enough for a snack yet simple enough to make anytime. Perfect when you want warm, cheesy comfort in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Dehydrated Strawberries in an Air Fryer

Dehydrated Strawberries in an Air Fryer.
Dehydrated Strawberries in an Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

The air fryer dries these strawberries without added sugar or oil. They’re easy to store and keep on hand for snacking. This method is quicker than traditional drying. No deep fryer means a lighter, cleaner result. Great for adding to party spreads or enjoying on their own.
Get the Recipe: Dehydrated Strawberries in an Air Fryer

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Bacon wrapped air fryer cabbage on white plate.
Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Cabbage wedges wrapped in bacon crisp nicely in the air fryer. They’re quick to prepare and require little cleanup. No deep frying keeps the flavors fresh and light. Their hearty texture makes them a good finger food option. They work well for casual snacking or as part of a spread.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Fried potato wedges with ketchup and parsley.
Air Fryer Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These wedges cook to a golden crisp in the air fryer without extra oil. They’re ready fast and easy to season any way you like. Cleanup is simple compared to deep frying. They’re a filling snack that works well with dips. Great for serving at gatherings or alongside other appetizers.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Crab Rangoon Dip

A person dipping a piece of bread into a skillet of cheesy dip.
Crab Rangoon Dip. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This warm dip comes together quickly in the air fryer, keeping the filling creamy without overcooking. It’s a good option when you want something shareable. No deep frying means less mess and faster cleanup. Works well with chips, bread, or vegetables for dipping. A crowd-friendly choice for casual get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

Air Fryer Lumpia

Filipino spring rolls in a basket with dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Lumpia. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These lumpia turn golden and crisp in the air fryer without a deep fryer. They cook quickly and hold their shape well. Minimal oil keeps them lighter while still giving a crunchy bite. They’re easy to prepare in batches for gatherings. Great for serving warm right out of the fryer.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

Ground Turkey Meatballs

Three glazed meatballs are arranged in a row on a white plate, each garnished with a stick and a small sprig of parsley. A red checkered cloth and some fresh parsley are in the background.
Ground Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These meatballs cook evenly in the air fryer, keeping them juicy inside. They’re ready in less time than oven baking. No deep fryer means you avoid extra oil and mess. They work well as finger food or served with dipping sauce. Perfect for making ahead and reheating quickly.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Meatballs

Chicken Lollipops

A close-up of a hand holding a crispy breaded chicken drumstick, with more drumsticks on a white plate in the background.
Chicken Lollipops. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

The air fryer gives these chicken lollipops a crisp coating while keeping the meat tender. They cook faster than traditional methods. You skip the oil and mess of deep frying. Their unique shape makes them easy to handle at parties. Great for both casual snacking and more festive gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lollipops

Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

Air Fryer Chicken Wings on white plate.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These wings go straight from freezer to crispy in the air fryer. They’re ready fast with no thawing needed. No deep frying means you skip the heavy oil. They’re an easy option for unexpected guests. Perfect for pairing with sauces for a quick snack.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Stack of bacon wrapped onion rings.
Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Onion rings wrapped in bacon crisp in the air fryer without deep frying. They’re ready in minutes and easy to prepare ahead. Minimal cleanup makes them a stress-free option. Their smoky, crunchy bite works well for sharing. Great for game days or casual get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Hot Honey Chicken Wings with Mustard

Three glazed chicken wing pieces garnished with parsley are arranged on a white plate. A red and white checkered cloth is visible beside the plate.
Hot Honey Chicken Wings with Mustard. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

The air fryer gives these wings a crisp finish while keeping the meat juicy. They cook quickly, making them great for spontaneous plans. No deep frying keeps the flavors cleaner and less heavy. The sweet heat from the honey and mustard makes them memorable. A strong choice for serving at any casual gathering.
Get the Recipe: Hot Honey Chicken Wings with Mustard

Crab Melt

Two plates of crab melt with sliced tomatoes and melted cheese, garnished with lemon slices on a white wooden surface.
Crab Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These crab melts cook evenly in the air fryer, giving you warm, gooey centers without overcooking. They’re ready in minutes, perfect for quick snacks. No deep frying means less mess. They work well as open-faced bites for serving to guests. A simple yet flavorful option for seafood lovers.
Get the Recipe: Crab Melt

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

A plate of jalapeño poppers on a table.
Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These poppers come out crisp on the outside and warm inside using the air fryer. They cook quickly without needing deep oil. The filling stays creamy while the peppers keep their shape. They’re easy to serve and enjoy in a group. A great choice for adding a little kick to your snack spread.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

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