icate items that could blow around.
When you think of air fryer foods, chicken wings and nuggets often come to mind first. And for good reason – they emerge incredibly crispy and delicious. But the protein possibilities extend far beyond these crowd-pleasers. Think about salmon fillets, which cook quickly and retain their moisture while developing a delightful outer sear. Pork chops can be cooked to juicy perfection, and even steak can be seared effectively in larger air fryer models.
Last updated: July 25, 2026
For those looking for leaner options, chicken breasts and thighs cook beautifully, staying tender on the inside and slightly crisped on the outside. Turkey meatballs are another fantastic candidate, cooking evenly without drying out. Even fish like cod or tilapia can be prepared with a light coating for a satisfying crunch. For a unique protein option, hard-boiled eggs cooked in the air fryer come out perfectly peeled – a surprising but true benefit!
This is where the air fryer truly shines, elevating humble vegetables to star status. Brussels sprouts, often viewed with skepticism, become wonderfully caramelized and crispy in the air fryer, far superior to their often-soggy steamed counterparts. Broccoli and cauliflower florets roast up beautifully, developing tender interiors and delightfully charred edges.
Root vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, and carrots can be cut into fries, wedges, or cubes and cooked to perfection. Asparagus spears become tender-crisp with a satisfying bite. Bell peppers and onions caramelize beautifully, making them perfect additions to fajitas or as a savory side. Even delicate vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms cook quickly without becoming mushy, provided you don’t overcrowd the basket.
This might be the most surprising category for many. While an air fryer isn’t a full-sized oven, it’s surprisingly capable of baking smaller items. Mini cheesecakes, cupcakes, and muffins can be baked successfully in air fryer-safe ramekins or silicone molds. The key is often to reduce the temperature slightly compared to a conventional oven and keep a close eye on cooking times, as air fryers can cook faster.
For desserts, consider fruit. Baked apples or pears, cored and filled with cinnamon and oats, become a warm, comforting treat. Bananas can be baked until soft and sweet, perfect served with ice cream. You can even make small batches of cookies, though they might come out a bit thicker and chewier than oven-baked versions. Don’t expect to bake a large cake, but for single servings or small treats, the air fryer is a handy tool.
Let’s be honest, sometimes you just need a quick, no-fuss meal. Air fryers are fantastic for elevating frozen convenience foods. French fries, tater tots, onion rings, and mozzarella sticks emerge crispier and more evenly cooked than in a standard oven. They require no pre-cooking and often cook faster.
Beyond the usual suspects, many frozen appetizers like spring rolls, dumplings, and chicken tenders benefit immensely from air frying. Even frozen pizzas, especially personal-sized ones, can achieve a crispier crust. Always check the package instructions for guidance, but generally, you’ll find air frying yields superior results compared to conventional baking for these items.
The air fryer is a snack-making machine. Beyond the frozen aisle, you can create homemade snacks that are healthier and often tastier. Roasted chickpeas, seasoned with your favorite spices, become wonderfully crunchy. Kale chips are a breeze to make, offering a guilt-free crispy treat.
For appetizers, consider mini quiches, stuffed mushrooms, or even homemade pizza rolls. If you enjoy a good dip, things like jalapeño poppers or spinach artichoke dip can be cooked quickly. The rapid circulation of hot air ensures that coatings get crispy and fillings are heated through efficiently, making your air fryer the go-to for game days or impromptu gatherings.
To get the most out of your air fryer, a few simple tips can make a big difference. First, preheating is often recommended. Just like a conventional oven, preheating your air fryer for 3–5 minutes ensures food cooks evenly from the moment it enters the basket. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service 2026 guidelines, ensuring food reaches safe internal temperatures is paramount, and preheating aids in achieving this uniformly.
Don’t overcrowd the basket. This is perhaps the most common mistake. Air needs to circulate freely around the food. If the basket is too full, your food will steam rather than crisp up. Cook in batches if necessary. Shaking the basket halfway through cooking is also crucial for even browning and crisping, especially for smaller items like fries or wings. For larger items like chicken breasts or fish fillets, you might need to flip them partway through.
Consider using a little oil. While air fryers use less oil than deep fryers, a light spritz of cooking spray or tossing food with a tablespoon of oil can enhance crispiness and flavor, especially for items like vegetables or proteins that don’t have much natural fat.
While incredibly versatile, air fryers aren’t suited for everything. Very wet batters, like those used for traditional tempura, tend to drip through the basket and make a mess, or they simply won’t crisp up properly. Similarly, delicate leafy greens like spinach might blow around the basket and burn before they cook.
Large roasts or whole birds might fit in some larger air fryer ovens, but they can be challenging to cook evenly without special accessories. For items that require slow braising or stewing, a Dutch oven or slow cooker is a far better choice. And while you can bake small items, don’t expect to replace your main oven for large cakes, pies, or loaves of bread.
As of 2026, understanding the strengths of each appliance is key. Air fryers excel at achieving crispiness quickly, especially for smaller portions. They are energy-efficient for cooking small batches and preheat much faster than a conventional oven. If you’re cooking for one or two, or want to reheat leftovers to recapture crispness, the air fryer is often the superior choice.
However, a conventional oven is indispensable for cooking large quantities, baking cakes and bread, or preparing dishes that require consistent, even heat without direct fan force. For example, a whole Thanksgiving turkey or a large batch of cookies is best left to the oven. The air fryer is a fantastic supplement to your kitchen, not a complete replacement for an oven.
The question of “what can you cook in an air fryer” opens up a world of culinary possibilities. From perfectly crispy proteins and vibrantly roasted vegetables to surprisingly delightful baked goods and quick snacks, this appliance is a true major shift. By understanding its capabilities and limitations, you can unlock its full potential and make meal preparation faster, healthier, and more exciting.
Don’t be afraid to experiment! The best way to discover what your air fryer can do is to try new recipes and techniques. Happy air frying!
Yes, you can generally use aluminum foil in an air fryer, but with important caveats. Ensure it doesn’t block air vents, as this can impede circulation and cause uneven cooking. It’s best used to line the basket for easier cleanup or to wrap foods that might otherwise dry out. Always check your air fryer manual for specific guidance.
Cleaning is straightforward: unplug the appliance and let it cool. Remove the basket and drawer, and wash them with warm, soapy water. For stubborn residue, use a non-abrasive sponge. Wipe down the interior and exterior with a damp cloth. Many baskets are also dishwasher-safe, but check your model’s instructions.
Air frying significantly reduces the amount of oil needed compared to deep frying, cutting down on fat and calories. This can be beneficial for weight management and reducing the intake of unhealthy fats. It allows you to achieve crispy textures typically associated with fried foods using healthier methods.
Absolutely. Raw meats like chicken, pork, and beef can be cooked safely and effectively in an air fryer. Ensure the meat is properly seasoned or marinated and cooks to the recommended internal temperature for safety. Using a meat thermometer is advisable to confirm doneness, especially for thicker cuts.
Foods with very wet batters, such as tempura, are not ideal. Very leafy greens can blow around and burn. Large roasts may require special accessories or can be difficult to cook evenly. Items that need slow braising or steaming, like stews or rice, are also not suitable for an air fryer.
Cooking times vary greatly depending on the food type, quantity, and temperature. Generally, air fryers cook about 20–25% faster than conventional ovens. For example, chicken wings might take 20-25 minutes, while fries could take 15–20 minutes at around 375-400°F (190-200°C). Always refer to specific recipes and use a thermometer for accuracy.
Information current as of July 2026; pricing and product details may change.
Related read: Easy Air Fryer Recipes for Beginners in 2026: Your Quick Start Guide
Source: FDA.
For readers asking “What can you cook in an air fryer”, the answer comes down to the specific factors covered above.
Related read: Cheap High Protein Meals for Beginners
By Hashim Hashmi 
