11 air fryer recipes that’ll change weeknight dinners forever

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Weeknight dinners don’t have to be stressful or boring, and that’s where the air fryer comes in. It’s a game-changer for getting flavorful, crispy meals on the table fast without the mess of traditional cooking methods. I’ve rounded up recipes that will keep your dinners fresh, simple, and anything but routine.

A piece of air fried chicken thigh on a fork, with a caramelized exterior and garnished with a small leaf, in focus against a blurred background of more chicken pieces.
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Whole Chicken in an Air Fryer

Roasted chicken with potatoes and carrots on a white plate.
Whole Chicken in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

This whole chicken turns out juicy with perfectly crispy skin, making it a great centerpiece for dinner. The air fryer cuts down on cooking time without sacrificing flavor. It’s a simple way to bring variety to weeknight meals with minimal cleanup. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying dinner. Ideal for when you want something hearty without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

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 chicken nuggets are a quick and easy way to please everyone at the dinner table. The air fryer ensures they come out crispy without the need for excess oil. They’re perfect for busy nights when you need something simple yet crowd-pleasing. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for a fun meal. Great for switching up your weeknight routine.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

Close-up of an air-fried barbecued rib with charred edges over a white plate.
Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These ribs cook faster in the air fryer while still coming out tender and flavorful. The convenience makes them a smart choice for a hearty dinner without waiting hours. The golden edges and juicy bites feel just right for a satisfying meal. Pair with a simple salad or vegetables for balance. Perfect for when you’re craving ribs on a weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

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 up quickly in the air fryer with a perfect charred flavor. They’re light, versatile, and ideal for freshening up your dinner lineup. Great for when you’re short on time but still want something that feels a bit special. Pair them with rice or a simple side for a complete meal. A smart way to make seafood a regular part of your weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

This ham comes out tender and perfectly coated in a sweet citrus glaze. Using the air fryer speeds things up, making it an excellent option for weeknight meals. The orange glaze adds a bright flavor that livens up your dinner plate. Pair it with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A great way to enjoy ham without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

Air Fryer Cornish Hen

Air fryer Cornish hen on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Air Fryer Cornish Hen. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Cornish hens cook beautifully in the air fryer, resulting in crispy skin and juicy meat. Their smaller size makes them perfect for quick weeknight meals without leftovers. The air fryer keeps things efficient while delivering great results. Serve alongside simple sides for a well-rounded dinner. Ideal when you’re looking for something a little different but still simple.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cornish Hen

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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

These chicken tenders cook quickly and come out perfectly crispy in the air fryer. They’re a great go-to for weeknights when you need something simple and reliable. The golden coating pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces. Serve them with fries or a salad for a balanced meal. A family favorite that fits seamlessly into your dinner rotation.
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 crispy pork belly bites cook up fast and are wonderfully flavorful. The air fryer makes them golden and crunchy without the need for deep frying. They’re a fantastic option for adding something hearty to your weeknight lineup. Serve them with rice or a dipping sauce for a simple yet satisfying meal. Perfect for when you want bold flavors with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

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.

These chicken kabobs are quick to cook and packed with flavor. The air fryer ensures even cooking with perfectly charred edges. They’re a great way to add variety to your dinner rotation. Serve them with rice, veggies, or pita bread for a complete meal. Ideal for busy weeknights when you want something fresh and fun.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

A piece of air fried chicken thigh on a fork, with a caramelized exterior and garnished with a small leaf, in focus against a blurred background of more chicken pieces.
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These chicken thighs turn out juicy and full of flavor with crispy edges. The air fryer keeps things quick and mess-free, making them a smart choice for weeknight dinners. They’re versatile enough to pair with various sides like roasted vegetables or rice. Their bold flavor and tender texture make them a favorite. Great for keeping your dinner routine interesting.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer Chicken Legs

Close-up of a crispy air fried chicken drumstick on a white plate garnished with parsley, with hot sauce in the background.
Air Fryer Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

These chicken legs come out perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The air fryer makes cooking them quick and easy without sacrificing flavor. They’re a family-friendly option that fits right into a busy schedule. Pair with simple sides for a complete meal. A practical way to enjoy chicken any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

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