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    Home / Roundups

    You'll Swear By These 37 Air Fryer Dinners for Busy Weeknights

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Nov 11, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    Air fryer dinners are the weeknight secret everyone needs but rarely talks about. They're quick, reliable, and turn simple ingredients into something that actually feels like a meal. There's no standing over the stove or juggling five pans. You just set, cook, and eat. These recipes prove you don't have to sacrifice flavor for convenience when time's tight. With air fryer dinners on the menu, even the busiest nights feel under control.

    Sliced grilled steak garnished with chopped parsley, served on a rectangular white plate with a side of fresh parsley.Pin
    Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

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    Air Fried Ham with Keto Glaze

    Sliced ham with a mustard glaze on a white plate, garnished with sprigs of fresh rosemary.Pin
    Air Fried Ham with Keto Glaze. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This air-fried ham has a caramelized glaze that gives every slice a touch of sweetness. It's simple enough for weeknights but feels special for gatherings. The air fryer keeps the edges crisp while locking in moisture. Serve it as part of easy air fryer dinners when you want flavor without the hassle.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fried Ham with Keto Glaze

    Chicken Nuggets

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

    These chicken nuggets turn golden and crisp in minutes while staying juicy inside. They're quick to make and easier to clean up than frying in oil. Great for both kids and adults, they bring that takeout-style crunch home. Pair them with your favorite dip for a laid-back meal.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

    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.Pin
    Air Fryer Chicken Legs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Chicken legs cook up with perfectly crisp skin and tender meat underneath. They're simple to season and ready in less time than the oven. The cleanup is minimal, and the flavor is bold enough for any day of the week. These belong in your list of go-to air fryer dinners.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

    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.Pin
    Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These boneless thighs turn out juicy and rich in flavor with barely any effort. The air fryer keeps the texture even and the seasoning locked in. You can serve them with rice, salad, or veggies for a well-rounded plate. Perfect when you need hearty air fryer dinners that come together fast.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

    Maryland Crab Cakes

    Two crab cakes on a white plate garnished with lemon wedges and parsley, with a dollop of sauce on top.Pin
    Maryland Crab Cakes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Crisp on the outside and tender in the middle, these crab cakes taste fresh and full of flavor. They're perfect for an easy dinner or appetizer. The air fryer cooks them evenly without any greasiness. A quick squeeze of lemon brings it all together beautifully.
    Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cakes

    Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

    Roasted chicken with potatoes and carrots on a white platter, garnished with rosemary.Pin
    Whole Chicken in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Roasting a whole chicken in the air fryer gives you crisp skin and juicy meat every time. It's an easy way to feed a group without much cleanup. The flavor stays deep while the texture remains perfectly tender. This recipe proves air fryer dinners can be just as impressive as oven-roasted meals.
    Get the Recipe: Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

    Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

    Sliced ham with orange slices and grapes, garnished with parsley on a platter.Pin
    Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This ham comes out juicy and slightly sticky with a citrus glaze that's both tangy and sweet. It cooks quickly and fits any meal from holidays to casual dinners. The air fryer does all the work while you enjoy more time at the table. Leftovers make great sandwiches, too.
    Get the Recipe: Orange Glazed Air Fryer Ham

    Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

    A grilled chicken skewer on a white plate with barbecue sauce and fresh parsley, beside a plate of more chicken skewers.Pin
    Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These chicken skewers are juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The air fryer helps the edges caramelize while keeping the center moist. They're a fun way to bring restaurant-style kabobs home. Serve with rice or salad for a balanced plate.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Close-up of a grilled barbecue rib with shiny glaze on a white plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Baby back ribs get tender inside and caramelized on the outside in under an hour. The air fryer helps build that smoky flavor without firing up a grill. You'll love how simple cleanup is afterward. It's one of those air fryer dinners you'll want to make again.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer

    Grilled salmon fillet on a white plate garnished with lemon slices and dill, next to a red checkered cloth and a fork.Pin
    Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Cooking salmon straight from the freezer is a time-saver without sacrificing texture. It turns out moist, flaky, and full of flavor from lemon and herbs. The air fryer gives it a gentle crisp on top. This dish works well for a no-fuss weeknight dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Frozen Salmon in Air Fryer

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Three crispy breaded chicken tenders on a white plate with a side of honey mustard sauce and garnished with parsley.Pin
    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, these tenders are quick to prepare and easy to portion. They feel like a restaurant favorite but come together in minutes. The air fryer ensures an even cook with little oil needed. Serve with your go-to dipping sauce for a fun meal.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Air Fryer Spatchcock Chicken

    Roasted, herb-seasoned chicken halves on a platter with fresh parsley, orange slices, and red grapes, set on a white surface with a red checkered cloth nearby.Pin
    Air Fryer Spatchcock Chicken. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This spatchcock chicken cooks evenly with golden, crispy skin and tender meat. It's great for busy nights when you want something hearty. The air fryer cuts the cooking time in half without losing any flavor. Perfect for anyone looking to simplify dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Spatchcock Chicken

    Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    Air-fried Cornish hen served on a bed of kale garnished with lemon wedges.Pin
    Air Fryer Cornish Hen. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This Cornish hen comes out golden and flavorful with juicy meat inside. It's just the right size for smaller portions or date-night dinners. The air fryer keeps it crisp while sealing in moisture. It's a simple yet elegant meal to enjoy at home.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    Pineapple Chicken in Air Fryer

    Three skewers with grilled meat, red bell peppers, and potatoes are served on a white plate, garnished with fresh parsley.Pin
    Pineapple Chicken in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    The mix of juicy chicken and caramelized pineapple makes this recipe both fresh and savory. It cooks fast and adds a fun twist to weeknight meals. Serve with steamed rice or a light salad. It's proof that air fryer dinners can be bright and flavorful, too.
    Get the Recipe: Pineapple Chicken in Air Fryer

    Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts

    Sliced grilled chicken breast garnished with parsley on a white plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    These marinated chicken breasts stay juicy with a nice golden finish. The air fryer helps lock in flavor from the first bite. They're great for meal prep or last-minute dinners. Pair them with veggies or grains for a complete plate.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Marinated Chicken Breasts

    Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

    Sliced grilled chicken breast in a white dish, with whole pieces on another plate in the background, next to a fork and dark cloth napkin.Pin
    Air Fryer BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    You'll get smoky, caramelized BBQ chicken in less time than grilling. The skin turns crisp, while the inside stays juicy. It's an easy way to enjoy barbecue flavor without stepping outside. Serve it with corn or slaw for a relaxed meal.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

    Keto Air Fryer Spicy Sauced Tenders

    Four seasoned and sauced chicken breast fillets garnished with chopped herbs on a white plate.Pin
    Keto Air Fryer Spicy Sauced Tenders. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    These tenders bring heat and crunch in every bite, with bold seasoning and a spicy finish. They cook fast and stay crispy without extra oil. Perfect for those who like a little kick at dinner. Serve them with ranch or blue cheese dressing to cool things down.
    Get the Recipe: Keto Air Fryer Spicy Sauced Tenders

    Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings

    Three pieces of seasoned and grilled chicken are served on a white plate with sprigs of leafy green garnish.Pin
    Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    Seasoned with Cajun spices, these wings are crisp, flavorful, and ready in minutes. They're perfect for casual dinners or game-night snacks. The air fryer keeps them light without losing flavor. A squeeze of lime adds a bright finish.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Wings

    Air Fryer Steak Tips

    A bowl of seasoned meat cubes garnished with chopped herbs, with a fork resting on the side.Pin
    Air Fryer Steak Tips. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    Steak tips turn out juicy and tender with a quick sear from the air fryer. They cook evenly and stay full of rich flavor. It's a great option for when you're craving steak but don't want to fire up a pan. Quick, simple, and perfect for busy nights.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Steak Tips

    Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

    Plate of sliced teriyaki chicken over white rice, topped with sesame seeds, served with snap peas and carrot slices.Pin
    Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Made Dishes.

    This air fryer teriyaki chicken hits that sweet and savory balance you want in a quick dinner. The glaze sticks perfectly, giving every bite a rich, sticky coating. It cooks fast, so you can skip takeout without losing flavor. Plus, it pairs easily with rice or noodles for a full meal.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

    Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

    Air fryer chicken leg quarters on a plate with broccoli and purple sweet potato fries.Pin
    Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

    These chicken leg quarters cook up crisp on the outside and juicy inside in under half an hour. The spice rub adds just enough punch without going overboard. It's a low-effort meal that still feels like real comfort food. Once you try them, you'll stop roasting chicken the old way.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters

    Air Fryer Jerk Chicken Skewers

    Two grilled chicken and vegetable skewers with pineapple, red bell pepper, and red onion served over a bed of white rice on a gray plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Jerk Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    These jerk chicken skewers bring serious flavor in almost no time. The air fryer locks in the spices and keeps the chicken tender while the pineapple adds a nice bite of sweetness. They're fun to eat, easy to prep, and great for a quick dinner that doesn't feel routine. You'll want these on repeat.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jerk Chicken Skewers

    Air Fryer Honey Glazed Salmon

    Grilled salmon served with asparagus topped with melted cheese, two lemon slices, and greens on a white plate beside a fork on a red napkin.Pin
    Air Fryer Honey Glazed Salmon. Photo credit: Mama's on a Budget.

    This honey glazed salmon turns out flaky and caramelized without much effort. The glaze adds a little sweetness that works perfectly with the fish. It's quick enough for weeknights but still feels like something you'd order at a restaurant. Once you try it, you'll start cooking salmon this way every time.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Honey Glazed Salmon

    Air Fryer Cornish Hens

    Air fryer Cornish hens on a cutting board with carving knife.Pin
    Air Fryer Cornish Hens. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

    These Cornish hens come out golden, juicy, and packed with flavor in less than an hour. The air fryer gives you crisp skin and tender meat with zero fuss. They're great when you want something special but don't want a full roast. It's the kind of dinner that looks impressive with almost no work.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cornish Hens

    Easy Air Fryer Tuna Steak

    Perfectly air-fried ahi tuna steaks with greens and lemon slices on a plate.Pin
    Easy Air Fryer Tuna Steak. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

    These tuna steaks sear perfectly in the air fryer while staying juicy in the middle. A quick brush of oil and seasoning is all they need. They're fast enough for a weeknight but still feel fresh and balanced. Pair them with a simple salad and dinner's done.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Tuna Steak

    Air Fryer Cheeseburger

    Air fryer cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, and onion on a bun.Pin
    Air Fryer Cheeseburger. Photo credit: Thrive at Home.

    This cheeseburger hits all the right notes-juicy center, melted cheese, and just enough crisp on the edges. The air fryer cooks it evenly without the grease splatter. It's ideal when you want that burger fix without firing up a grill. Add your favorite toppings and call it a day.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheeseburger

    Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

    A plate of air-fried chicken Parmesan rests on a bed of spaghetti, topped with marinara sauce and cheese, garnished with parsley. Next to it is a Caesar salad with lettuce, croutons, and dressing.Pin
    Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

    This chicken Parmesan comes out crispy, cheesy, and ready in no time. The panko and Parmesan coating turns golden while the inside stays juicy. It's a great go-to for nights when you want comfort food fast. Serve it with pasta or salad and dinner's handled.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

    Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

    Three air-fried, sesame-crusted chicken thighs with broccoli on a white plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

    These boneless chicken thighs cook up juicy with a quick hit of flavor from olive oil and seasoning. The air fryer handles all the hard work, leaving you with tender meat in minutes. They're perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner fix. Double the batch-you'll be glad you did.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

    Air Fryer Steak Bites

    A plate of steak bites garnished with herbs and spices, with a fork holding one piece.Pin
    Air Fryer Steak Bites. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

    These steak bites give you all the flavor of a steakhouse without leaving your kitchen. The garlic butter takes things up a notch, and each bite stays juicy inside. They're ready fast and work just as well for dinner as for snacks. Cleanup's easy too, which makes this one a keeper.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Steak Bites

    Easy Air Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings

    A plate with sliced spring rolls filled with vegetables, garnished with chopped green onions, served with a bowl of soy dipping sauce topped with sesame seeds. Chopsticks rest beside the plate.Pin
    Easy Air Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

    These rice paper dumplings come out crisp, golden, and filled with veggie goodness. The air fryer keeps them light while still giving you that crunch you want. They're easy to prep and reheat nicely too. It's a fun way to switch up your usual appetizer routine.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Rice Paper Dumplings

    Air Fryer Caprese Chicken

    Chicken Caprese with tomato and basil on a blue plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Caprese Chicken. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

    This Caprese chicken gives you juicy meat, melted mozzarella, and sweet tomato all in one quick dish. The air fryer cooks it fast while locking in flavor. It feels fresh but still comforting enough for a weeknight dinner. You'll want to keep this one in rotation.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Caprese Chicken

    Air Fryer London Broil

    Sliced beef on a white platter.Pin
    Air Fryer London Broil. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

    This London broil turns out tender and flavorful with barely any effort. The air fryer cooks it evenly, so you don't have to babysit it. Slice it thin and pair it with veggies or potatoes for a solid dinner. It's fast, filling, and easy to clean up after too.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer London Broil

    Air Fryer Chicken

    Chicken wings on a plate.Pin
    Air Fryer Chicken. Photo credit: The Keto Option.

    These air fryer chicken tenders stay crisp without the grease. The coating gives each piece just enough crunch while keeping the inside juicy. They're quick to throw together and pair well with any dip. You'll be surprised how fast they disappear.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken

    Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken

    Low angle shot of korean fried chicken with a hand holding a piece of the chicken.Pin
    Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    This Korean fried chicken hits that sweet-and-spicy balance perfectly. The air fryer keeps it crisp while cutting back on the mess. Every bite has that addictive crunch that keeps you coming back. It's fast, bold, and seriously hard to stop eating.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken

    Air Fryer Pineapple Chicken

    Close-up of a dish featuring pieces of chicken, red and yellow bell peppers, green onions, and brown sauce served over rice.Pin
    Air Fryer Pineapple Chicken. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    This pineapple chicken is loaded with juicy bites of chicken and caramelized fruit in a tangy glaze. The air fryer handles it fast, so dinner's on the table in under 30 minutes. It's great when you want something bright and quick. Even better, it uses ingredients you probably already have.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pineapple Chicken

    Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken

    Overhead shot of a striped bowl with kung pao chicken.Pin
    Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

    This kung pao chicken brings heat, crunch, and a ton of flavor all in one pan. The air fryer keeps the chicken crisp while the peanuts and peppers add texture. It's quick, bold, and perfect with steamed rice. Once you try it, takeout won't seem worth it.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Kung Pao Chicken

    Easy Air Fryer Beef Taquitos

    A plate of crispy rolled tacos topped with sour cream and garnished with chopped green onions and cilantro, placed on a colorful tiled table.Pin
    Easy Air Fryer Beef Taquitos. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

    These beef taquitos come out crisp and full of flavor in just a few minutes. The air fryer gives them the perfect crunch without any greasy mess. They're fun to dip, easy to eat, and ideal for busy nights. You'll want extras because they go fast.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Beef Taquitos

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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