• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Little Bit Recipes
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Resources
  • Recipes
  • Subscribe
  • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Resources
    • Recipes
    • Subscribe
    • About
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home / Roundups

    26 Air Fryer Appetizers That Taste Like Restaurant Favorites

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Apr 5, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    Pinterest Hidden Image

    There's something about restaurant appetizers that always hits the spot, but making them at home is easier than you think. With an air fryer, you can get that crispy, golden texture without the hassle of deep frying. These easy appetizers bring the flavors you love straight to your kitchen-no reservations required.

    A bowl of sliced dried strawberries on a table, with fresh whole strawberries scattered around it.Pin
    Dehydrated Strawberries in an Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Want to save this post?

    Enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox. Plus, I'll send you the latest recipes and tips every week!

    Loading

    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 air fryer chicken nuggets are a quick way to get that crispy coating without deep frying. They cook up fast, making them a great option for a snack or an easy appetizer. The air fryer gives them that restaurant-style crunch without the extra oil.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

    Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

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

    These bacon-wrapped salmon bites bring together crispy bacon and flaky salmon in a way that feels straight off a restaurant menu. The air fryer makes them cook evenly while keeping the bacon crisp. They work well as a starter for seafood lovers or as a quick party bite.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Dehydrated Strawberries in an Air Fryer

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

    Dehydrated strawberries make a great snack or a light appetizer with a natural sweetness. The air fryer speeds up the process, giving you a chewy texture that works well for toppings or snacking. They're a simple way to add a fruit option to your appetizer spread.
    Get the Recipe: Dehydrated Strawberries in an Air Fryer

    Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

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

    These bacon-wrapped onion rings bring a bold flavor combination that's just like something you'd find at a pub. The air fryer keeps them crispy while cutting down on the mess of deep frying. They're a fun twist on a classic appetizer that's easy to make at home.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Onion Rings

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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

    These air fryer chicken tenders are perfect for getting that golden crust without the extra oil. They're easy to pair with dipping sauces for a restaurant-style appetizer at home. The air fryer keeps them juicy inside and crisp on the outside.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

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

    These cranberry and brie puff pastry bites come out of the air fryer with a flaky texture and a creamy, rich filling. The combination of sweet and savory makes them a standout appetizer. They're easy to prepare, making them great for a quick get-together.
    Get the Recipe: Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites

    Air Fryer Lumpia

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

    Lumpia gets that classic crisp texture in the air fryer without needing a deep fryer. The wrapper stays golden brown while keeping the filling warm and flavorful. They're a go-to choice when you want an easy handheld appetizer that feels restaurant-quality.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lumpia

    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.Pin
    Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These chicken skewers cook quickly and stay tender thanks to the air fryer. They bring that grilled taste without needing an outdoor grill. The bite-sized portions make them great for sharing or serving at a gathering.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

    Air Fryer Pasta Chips

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

    These pasta chips come out of the air fryer crispy and perfect for dipping. They offer a crunch similar to restaurant-style chips but with a twist. They pair well with a variety of dips, making them a great snackable appetizer.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pasta Chips

    Crab Rangoon Dip

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

    This crab rangoon dip gives you the creamy, savory flavor of the classic appetizer without the need for deep frying. The air fryer heats everything evenly, making it easy to serve hot and bubbly. It pairs well with crackers or crispy wonton chips for dipping.
    Get the Recipe: Crab Rangoon Dip

    Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

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

    This bacon-wrapped cabbage takes a simple ingredient and turns it into something crispy and flavorful. The air fryer helps render the bacon while keeping the cabbage slightly tender inside. It's a unique appetizer that brings a mix of textures to the table.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Air Fryer Cabbage

    Chicken Lollipops

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

    Chicken lollipops are a fun, restaurant-style appetizer that crisps up nicely in the air fryer. The bone-in presentation makes them easy to grab and dip. They cook quickly while staying juicy inside, making them a crowd-pleasing option.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Lollipops

    Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

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

    This sweet and crunchy snack gets its signature crispiness in the air fryer without needing oil. The caramelized banana filling stays warm while the wrapper turns golden brown. It's a great handheld option for a dessert-style appetizer.
    Get the Recipe: Filipino Banana Turon Lumpia

    Air Fryer Potato Wedges

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

    These air fryer potato wedges come out golden and crisp with a soft inside. They have that restaurant-style texture without needing deep frying. Perfect for dipping, they work well as a casual appetizer or side dish.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Potato Wedges

    Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

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

    The mix of sweet pineapple and crispy bacon makes this a bold appetizer choice. The air fryer ensures the bacon gets crispy while the pineapple stays juicy. These bite-sized pieces are easy to serve and packed with flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon-Wrapped Pineapple in Air Fryer

    Crab Melt

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

    This crab melt brings a creamy seafood option to the appetizer table. The air fryer helps toast the bread while warming up the filling evenly. It's an easy way to get a warm, cheesy seafood dish without turning on the oven.
    Get the Recipe: Crab Melt

    Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

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

    These jalapeño poppers come out crispy with a hot, melty center. The air fryer makes them just as crunchy as the deep-fried version. They're a great way to bring a restaurant-style favorite to your home kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Jalapeño Poppers

    Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

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

    These air fryer chicken wings cook straight from frozen, making them a convenient option. They get crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside. It's a great way to enjoy a bar-style appetizer without needing extra steps.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Wings (from Frozen)

    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.Pin
    Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali). Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These pork belly bites crisp up in the air fryer for that classic crunchy texture. The air fryer helps render the fat, creating a crispy outside with a tender bite. They're a simple way to get a restaurant-style appetizer without deep frying.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

    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.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These bacon-wrapped shrimp cook quickly in the air fryer, keeping the bacon crisp and the shrimp tender. They work well as an easy seafood appetizer with a balance of smoky and fresh flavors. They're a great choice for a quick, protein-packed bite.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in Air Fryer

    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.Pin
    Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These air fryer lemon pepper wings get a crispy coating while keeping the meat tender. The seasoning brings a bold kick without needing extra sauces. They're a quick and easy way to get that classic restaurant wing experience at home. They make for a flavorful appetizer that's perfect for sharing.
    Get the Recipe: Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

    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.Pin
    Bacon Wrapped Chicken Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These bacon-wrapped chicken bites are easy to make and come out crispy in the air fryer. The bite-sized portions make them perfect for dipping. They bring a mix of smoky and savory flavors without the mess of frying.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Chicken 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.Pin
    Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These shrimp skewers cook quickly in the air fryer while keeping the shrimp juicy. The air fryer gives them a slight char, like they just came off a grill. They're great for a light and easy seafood appetizer.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

    Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

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

    These smashed potatoes come out crispy on the edges with melted cheese on top. The air fryer helps them cook evenly while keeping them soft inside. They're an easy way to get a restaurant-style appetizer without much effort.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes with Cheese

    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.Pin
    Ground Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These ground turkey meatballs cook up juicy in the air fryer with a crisp outer layer. They're easy to serve on their own or with dipping sauces. The air fryer makes them a quick, simple appetizer without needing extra oil.
    Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Meatballs

    Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

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

    These bacon-wrapped little smokies cook up crisp and caramelized in the air fryer. The bite-sized portions make them an easy appetizer for any gathering. The air fryer keeps the bacon crispy without needing extra steps.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Little Smokies

    FacebookXPinterestFlipboard

    More Roundups

    • A hand scooping a creamy dip with melted cheese and green onions, served with bread in a cast-iron skillet.
      30 Crowd-Pleasing Eats Perfect for Any Game Night
    • A spoon lifting a bite from a chocolate chip mug cake inside a white mug.
      20 Chocolate Treats That Melt Hearts and Taste Buds
    • Baked apple in air fryer filled with oats and dried fruit on a white plate, next to a red-checkered cloth and cinnamon sticks.
      18 Quick Sweet Treats Made Just for One
    • A skillet with sweet potato casserole and pecans.
      25 Must Try Side Dishes for the Holiday Featuring Family Favorites

    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.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    No Comments

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    A woman in a green shirt stands in a kitchen holding a bowl of strawberries.

    Hi, I'm Lisa! I'm a cookbook author who has been creating recipes for over a decade. I'd like to show you how easy it is to downsize your cooking for one or two people.

    Read more →

    Popular

    • A bowl of brown rice with Hawaiian chicken on it.
      Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
    • edible cookie dough single serving for one.
      Edible Single Serving Cookie Dough
    • Sliced Italian artisan bread with buttered slice in front.
      No Knead Italian Artisan Bread
    • A sliced meatloaf on a white plate.
      Cracker Barrel Meatloaf (CopyCat)

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    Cooking

    • Scaling Recipes
    • Mini Pie Pans
    • Stories

    Recipes

    • Breakfast
    • Dinner
    • Desserts

    About

    • About
    • Contact
    • Newsletter

    LittleBitRecipes.com makes money through affiliate partner links: If you click on a link, we may earn a commission. Our writers create all reviews, recipes, and other content to inform readers, with no influence from our advertisers. LittleBitRecipes.com may earn from qualifying purchased made on Amazon.com. Learn more about our privacy policies, terms of use, and disclosures.

    Copyright © 2026. Little Bit Recipes. All Rights Reserved.