21 air fryer appetizers that’ll have you ditching the deep fryer

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If you’re looking to enjoy crispy, mouthwatering appetizers without the mess of traditional frying, you’re in for a treat. I’ve discovered a collection of air fryer recipes that deliver all the flavor and crunch we love but with less oil and hassle. These appetizers are perfect for game days, gatherings, or simply snacking at home, making it easy to impress family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

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

Air Fryer Pasta Chips

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

Air fryer pasta chips are a quick and crunchy appetizer perfect for snacking. The air fryer ensures a crispy texture without the need for deep frying, making them lighter and easier to prepare. These chips are great for dipping into sauces or eating on their own, making them a versatile addition to any spread. A fun and simple way to transform pasta into a crowd-pleasing snack. Say goodbye to deep frying with this healthier take on a classic crunchy snack.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

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.

Bacon wrapped little smokies are always a party favorite, and using the air fryer makes them quicker and less greasy. The smoky flavor of the sausage pairs perfectly with the crispy bacon, making these a go-to for gatherings. No need for deep frying, as the air fryer creates that perfect bacon crisp in less time. These bite-sized treats are easy to make and even easier to eat. A crowd-pleaser that’s ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

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 bacon-wrapped chicken bites come together quickly in the air fryer, providing a crispy, flavorful bite without the hassle of deep frying. The bacon crisps up perfectly, and the chicken stays tender, making it a popular choice for appetizers. With minimal prep and quick cooking time, they’re perfect for busy days or last-minute guests. A quick, crowd-pleasing snack you can feel good about serving. Ideal for game days or casual get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites

Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

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

Air fryer jalapeño poppers are a simple, mess-free way to make this classic appetizer without deep frying. The air fryer creates a crispy exterior while keeping the cheesy filling warm and creamy. With less oil involved, these poppers are a lighter alternative but still pack all the flavor. Ready in minutes, they’re perfect for parties or snack time. A simple, crowd-pleasing option that saves you time and oil.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

Air Fryer Potato Wedges

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

Air fryer potato wedges offer the perfect balance of crispy outside and fluffy inside, without the need for deep frying. They’re a quick, easy snack or side that’s ready in a fraction of the time. Seasoned to perfection, these wedges are great for dipping or enjoying on their own. The air fryer ensures they come out golden and crispy without the excess oil. A classic favorite that’s faster and less messy to make.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

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.

Bacon-wrapped shrimp in the air fryer gives you a quick, flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. The bacon crisps up while the shrimp remains tender, offering a satisfying texture contrast. No deep fryer needed which cuts down on mess and cooking time. This dish is simple to prepare, making it a great option for busy days or entertaining guests. A delicious snack that’s ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer

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.

Ground turkey meatballs come out tender and juicy in the air fryer, offering a healthier alternative to deep-fried meatballs. They’re perfect as an appetizer or served alongside a dipping sauce. The air fryer cooks them evenly and quickly, making them ideal for busy days or when you need a quick snack. They’re simple to prepare and perfect for anyone looking for a lighter meatball option. A great choice for a flavorful, quick bite.
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.

Chicken lollipops are a fun, bite-sized snack that comes together quickly in the air fryer. The air fryer crisps the chicken to perfection, without the need for deep frying, making this dish easier to prepare and healthier overall. With their unique presentation and rich flavor, they’re a great option for parties or casual meals. Ready in minutes, they offer a convenient, mess-free way to serve chicken. A great addition to any appetizer spread.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lollipops

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.

Chicken skewers in the air fryer come out perfectly cooked, offering a quick and easy appetizer option that’s packed with flavor. The air fryer gives them a nice char without the mess or time commitment of deep frying or grilling. Great for parties, these kabobs are simple to make and ready in minutes. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a complete snack. A healthier, faster alternative to traditional kabobs.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

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

Cooking frozen chicken wings in the air fryer is a game changer, allowing you to go from freezer to crispy wings in no time. The air fryer ensures they come out golden and crispy without the need for deep frying or thawing. These wings are perfect for quick snacks or game day spreads, offering all the flavor with less mess. No oil splatters, just simple, delicious wings. A go-to appetizer when time is tight and flavor is key.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

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.

Lemon pepper chicken wings crisp up perfectly in the air fryer, offering a light and flavorful snack without the grease of deep frying. The air fryer ensures they cook quickly and evenly, making them a great choice for parties or casual meals. With a tangy lemon pepper seasoning, these wings are both fresh and flavorful. They’re ready in minutes and perfect for serving at any gathering. A lighter take on a classic appetizer that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

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.

Bacon-wrapped salmon bites crisp up perfectly in the air fryer, combining rich flavors in a simple, easy-to-make appetizer. The air fryer cooks the bacon to a golden crisp while keeping the salmon moist and tender. These bite-sized treats are ideal for parties or casual meals, offering a unique take on seafood appetizers. With less oil and mess than deep frying, they’re a great way to impress guests. A flavorful, easy appetizer that comes together quickly.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

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

Bacon-wrapped cabbage is a unique air fryer appetizer that’s both crispy and flavorful. The air fryer helps crisp the bacon while softening the cabbage for a great texture contrast. This dish is easy to prepare and makes for a fun, shareable snack that’s ready in minutes. With minimal prep and clean-up, it’s perfect for busy days. A flavorful way to enjoy vegetables with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Roasted tomatoes seasoned with herbs and spices, served on a white plate garnished with parsley.
Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Roasting Roma tomatoes in the air fryer gives you a quick, flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for adding to salads, bruschetta, or enjoying on their own. The air fryer helps intensify their natural sweetness while reducing cooking time. With less oil needed, these roasted tomatoes are a healthier alternative to deep frying. Ready in minutes, they’re an easy way to add flavor to any meal. A simple, fast, and flavorful option for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

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.

Air fryer pork belly bites bring all the crunch and flavor of traditional lechon kawali without the need for deep frying. The air fryer crisps the pork belly perfectly while cutting down on grease and cooking time. These bite-sized pieces are ideal for sharing at parties or serving as an appetizer. A great way to enjoy a favorite dish with less mess. Crispy, flavorful pork belly that’s easier to make.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

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.

Smashed potatoes with cheese come out crispy and golden in the air fryer, offering a fun, flavorful appetizer with minimal effort. The air fryer ensures they cook quickly and evenly, giving you crispy edges and soft centers. Topped with melted cheese, they’re a great snack for any occasion. This dish is easy to make and perfect for sharing. A satisfying, easy-to-prepare appetizer that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

Air Fryer Lumpia

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

Air fryer lumpia gives you all the crispy, crunchy goodness of this popular appetizer without the need for deep frying. The air fryer cooks them quickly and evenly, offering a lighter alternative to traditional frying methods. Great for parties or casual meals, these lumpia are easy to make and ready in minutes. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a quick, flavorful snack. A healthier twist on a beloved classic.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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

Air fryer chicken tenders are a quick and easy appetizer that skips the deep fryer without sacrificing flavor. The air fryer gives them a golden, crispy coating while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. Ready in minutes, these tenders are perfect for dipping or serving alongside your favorite sides. A great option for game day or family meals. A lighter, faster take on a classic snack.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

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

Bacon-wrapped onion rings crisp up beautifully in the air fryer, offering a fun twist on a classic appetizer. The air fryer cooks the bacon and onion perfectly, without the need for deep frying. This dish is quick to prepare and sure to be a hit at any gathering. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an easy, flavorful snack. A fun, shareable appetizer that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

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

Filipino banana turon lumpia crisps up perfectly in the air fryer, giving you a sweet, crunchy treat without deep frying. The air fryer caramelizes the sugar coating and crisps the lumpia wrapper, creating a delicious snack or dessert. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy this Filipino classic. Serve it as a sweet finish to any meal or as a stand-alone treat. A lighter way to enjoy a traditional favorite.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

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.

Grilled shrimp skewers come out perfectly in the air fryer, offering a quick and easy appetizer that’s full of flavor. The air fryer cooks the shrimp evenly and quickly, making them ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Serve these skewers with your favorite sauce or as part of a larger meal. A fast, flavorful appetizer that’s always a hit. A great alternative to grilling with less mess.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

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