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    Home / Roundups

    29 Air Fryer Meat Main Dish That Makes Takeout Look Overpriced

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Nov 25, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    An Air Fryer Meat Main Dish is the ultimate answer to weeknight dinners that feel fancy without the cost of takeout. These recipes bring bold flavors, crispy textures, and juicy results straight to your table in no time. Cooking with an air fryer means less mess, faster cleanup, and a healthier way to enjoy your favorite meals. With restaurant-quality results at home, it's easy to skip the delivery fees and long waits. These dishes prove that your air fryer isn't just a gadget-it's a game-changer for dinner.

    Four glazed pork chops garnished with parsley on a plate, with a lemon wedge and a side dish of halved red potatoes in the background.Pin
    Photo credit: xoxoBella.

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    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.

    Air Fryer Cornish Hen brings crispy skin and juicy meat to your table, making it a star for special dinners or casual get-togethers. This dish shows off the air fryer's ability to create a memorable main course with ease. A surefire choice for anyone exploring bold options in an Air Fryer Meat Main Dish.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    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.

    Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites serve up crunchy exteriors and tender centers without the oil-soaked hassle of deep frying. They're a game-changer for casual meals or party snacks, turning simple ingredients into a feast. Try these when you want something beyond the usual lineup of Air Fryer Meat Main Dish recipes.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites (Lechon Kawali)

    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.

    Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs bring quick and juicy satisfaction to weeknight dinners. These flavorful thighs cook fast and stay tender, making them a reliable choice for busy nights. Perfect as an Air Fryer Meat Main Dish, they pair effortlessly with sides like roasted veggies or rice.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

    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.

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders deliver a golden crunch and a juicy bite, ideal for kids and adults alike. Ready in minutes, they're a lifesaver for last-minute meals or after-school snacks. This reliable option for an Air Fryer Meat Main Dish guarantees less mess without sacrificing flavor.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    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.

    Chicken Skewers Kabobs bring grill-inspired goodness to your air fryer, giving you tender, juicy bites in record time. Perfect for busy evenings, they're easy to prep and loaded with flavor. A no-fuss way to try something new as part of your Air Fryer Meat Main Dish rotation.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Skewers Kabobs in Air Fryer

    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.

    Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites blend crispy bacon with tender salmon, creating a standout dish in under 15 minutes. This recipe balances rich and savory notes, perfect for a main course or upscale appetizer. Add variety to your Air Fryer Meat Main Dish game with this easy-to-make option.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    Air Fryer Tuna Melt

    A grilled cheese tuna sandwich on a plate, cut in half, with melted cheese and fillings visible, accompanied by pickles and parsley.Pin
    Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Air Fryer Tuna Melt offers melty cheese and crispy bread in one satisfying bite, making lunch exciting again. Perfect for when you need something quick but filling, it's a creative twist on classic comfort food. This recipe adds flair to your Air Fryer Meat Main Dish repertoire in no time.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

    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.

    Air Fryer Chicken Legs come out with crispy skin and tender meat, proving the air fryer's unmatched versatility. Great for casual dinners or meal prep, they're ready faster than roasting in the oven. A dependable option when you want an easy-to-love Air Fryer Meat Main Dish.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

    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.

    Whole Chicken in the Air Fryer delivers juicy meat and golden skin without the long wait of traditional roasting. It's a low-effort, high-reward way to serve up a family favorite. Ideal for exploring the possibilities of an Air Fryer Meat Main Dish while keeping cleanup simple.
    Get the Recipe: Whole Chicken 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.

    Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs give you tender, fall-off-the-bone meat with a caramelized finish in record time. Skip the slow cooker and still enjoy that barbecue classic taste. A perfect shortcut to elevate your Air Fryer Meat Main Dish lineup without hours of prep.
    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.Pin
    Grilled Shrimp Skewers. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Grilled Shrimp Skewers in the air fryer cook up juicy and flavorful in no time. With a light char and bold flavor, they're a no-fuss seafood choice that feels fancy yet effortless. This recipe is an ideal pick for any Air Fryer Meat Main Dish that's quick to prep and fun to eat.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

    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.

    Chicken Nuggets in the air fryer are crispy on the outside and juicy inside, all without extra oil. Perfect for quick meals or snacks, they're easy to pair with your favorite dips. This is a fantastic Air Fryer Meat Main Dish that keeps things simple and satisfying for everyone.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Nuggets

    Brats with Peppers and Onions

    Grilled sausages with sliced red and green bell peppers and onions on a white plate. Condiments in small bowls nearby.Pin
    Brats with Peppers and Onions. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

    Brats with Peppers and Onions in the air fryer bring savory bratwurst and sweet veggies together in record time. The air fryer locks in all the flavors for a comforting meal without extra cleanup. This dish makes a hearty Air Fryer Meat Main Dish that's perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.
    Get the Recipe: Brats with Peppers and Onions

    Chicken Tenders

    A rectangular white plate with eight breaded chicken tenders garnished with parsley, beside a small cup of red dipping sauce. A patterned cloth is partially visible on the right.Pin
    Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: A Cedar Spoon.

    Chicken Tenders in the air fryer deliver crispy, golden perfection in minutes. They're a kid-approved favorite and pair well with any sauce for a quick, no-stress meal. This recipe is a top-tier Air Fryer Meat Main Dish for a fun and fuss-free dinner.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders

    Rib Eye Steak

    A cooked steak with grill marks is served on a white plate alongside roasted asparagus.Pin
    Rib Eye Steak. Photo credit: Simply Happy Foodie.

    Rib Eye Steak in the air fryer cooks to your ideal doneness with a beautiful sear. This method makes a steakhouse-quality meal achievable any night of the week. An easy choice for an Air Fryer Meat Main Dish when you want impressive results without the grill.
    Get the Recipe: Rib Eye Steak

    Teriyaki Salmon

    A plate with grilled salmon topped with sesame seeds, served over rice and asparagus. Two forks and a striped napkin are in view.Pin
    Teriyaki Salmon. Photo credit: Three Kids, Three Cats, and a Husband.

    Teriyaki Salmon in the air fryer caramelizes beautifully while staying flaky and tender. The rich glaze makes every bite flavorful, and it's ready in a snap. A wonderful Air Fryer Meat Main Dish that feels like a treat but couldn't be easier.
    Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Salmon

    Fried Chicken

    Plate with fried chicken pieces and a salad of mixed greens and cherry tomatoes.Pin
    Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Simply Happy Foodie.

    Fried Chicken in the air fryer delivers a crispy crust with perfectly juicy meat. With just the right seasoning, this dish feels indulgent without the mess of frying. A winning choice for an Air Fryer Meat Main Dish that's easy to love.
    Get the Recipe: Fried Chicken

    Pork Roast

    A plate with roasted meat, potatoes, and peas, accompanied by a small bowl of peas and a bowl of gravy on a white tablecloth.Pin
    Pork Roast. Photo credit: The Fast Recipe Food Blog.

    Pork Roast in the air fryer turns out juicy and flavorful with minimal effort. It's perfect for a special Sunday meal or a quick weeknight dinner. A go-to Air Fryer Meat Main Dish when you want hearty comfort food in a hurry.
    Get the Recipe: Pork Roast

    BBQ Chicken

    A glazed, cooked chicken breast is served on a white plate, with one half sliced into pieces.Pin
    BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Flavor the Moments.

    BBQ Chicken in the air fryer combines smoky flavors with juicy, tender meat in no time. Whether you're craving wings or thighs, this recipe nails it every time. A must-try Air Fryer Meat Main Dish for a quick BBQ fix without the grill.
    Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken

    Gochujang Chicken Wings

    A bowl of glazed chicken wings garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, placed next to a small dish of sauce on a textured surface.Pin
    Gochujang Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Sense & Edibility.

    Gochujang Chicken Wings pack a punch with bold, spicy flavors that crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. They're the perfect mix of heat and crunch for a fun dinner or snack. A standout Air Fryer Meat Main Dish that's anything but boring.
    Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken Wings

    Salmon Bites

    Grilled salmon chunks garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions on a wooden serving board.Pin
    Salmon Bites. Photo credit: A Cedar Spoon.

    Salmon Bites in the air fryer are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This simple recipe makes seafood approachable and tasty in no time. An excellent Air Fryer Meat Main Dish for nights when you want something light yet satisfying.
    Get the Recipe: Salmon Bites

    Chuck Roast

    Sliced roast beef on a wooden board, garnished with sprigs of rosemary.Pin
    Chuck Roast. Photo credit: Corrie Cooks.

    Chuck Roast in the air fryer is all about juicy meat and bold flavor, with just five ingredients. This easy recipe brings dinner to the table with minimal prep. A solid pick for an Air Fryer Meat Main Dish when you're short on time but big on cravings.
    Get the Recipe: Chuck Roast

    Lamb Rib Chops

    Grilled lamb chops garnished with rosemary, served with pasta on a white plate.Pin
    Lamb Rib Chops. Photo credit: My Best Air Fryer Recipes.

    Lamb Rib Chops in the air fryer cook up tender and juicy, with a crispy fat cap that's pure gold. Perfect for an impressive yet simple dinner in under 20 minutes. A flavorful Air Fryer Meat Main Dish that feels fancy without the fuss.
    Get the Recipe: Lamb Rib Chops

    Honey Mustard Pork Chops

    Four glazed pork chops garnished with parsley on a plate, with a lemon wedge and a side dish of halved red potatoes in the background.Pin
    Honey Mustard Pork Chops. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

    Honey Mustard Pork Chops in the air fryer cook up juicy with a sweet-savory glaze you'll love. Perfect for busy nights, this dish is full of flavor with barely any effort. A brilliant Air Fryer Meat Main Dish that doesn't need a lot of time to shine.
    Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Pork Chops

    Chicken Thighs

    Grilled chicken thighs seasoned with herbs on a white plate, garnished with fresh parsley.Pin
    Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Flavor the Moments.

    Chicken Thighs in the air fryer stay juicy and crisp with just the right amount of seasoning. This is a family favorite that's ready in a flash. A reliable Air Fryer Meat Main Dish for weeknight meals everyone will enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Thighs

    Dry-Rubbed Pork Roast

    Two grilled steaks with slices are topped with melting butter and sprinkled with chopped parsley on a white plate.Pin
    Dry-Rubbed Pork Roast. Photo credit: Mary's Whole Life.

    Dry-Rubbed Pork Roast in the air fryer brings out bold flavors with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. It's simple to make but feels like a restaurant-quality meal. A winning Air Fryer Meat Main Dish that's perfect for a crowd or a quiet dinner at home.
    Get the Recipe: Dry-Rubbed Pork Roast

    Chicken Fajitas

    Three chicken fajitas with bell peppers, lime wedges, and cilantro on a plate.Pin
    Chicken Fajitas. Photo credit: Deliciously Home Cooked.

    Chicken Fajitas in the air fryer come out smoky, tender, and bursting with flavor. The veggies and chicken cook up fast for a meal that's fresh and fun. A fantastic Air Fryer Meat Main Dish for taco night or a quick dinner fix.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Fajitas

    Chicken Sausage

    Five sausages on a wooden board with a bowl of dipping sauce, garnished with parsley, beside sliced sausage pieces.Pin
    Chicken Sausage. Photo credit: Little Nonni.

    Chicken Sausage in the air fryer comes out juicy and ready in just 15 minutes. Pair it with your favorite sides for a meal that's as easy as it is versatile. A solid Air Fryer Meat Main Dish for busy nights or simple dinners.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Sausage

    Marinated Turkey Tenderloin

    Sliced roasted turkey breast garnished with orange slices, parsley, and cranberries on a platter, with a fork and rosemary sprigs nearby.Pin
    Marinated Turkey Tenderloin. Photo credit: Dinners Done Quick.

    Marinated Turkey Tenderloin in the air fryer cooks to juicy perfection, making it a great choice for everyday dinners or small Thanksgiving gatherings. It's flavorful, fuss-free, and ready in no time. A stellar Air Fryer Meat Main Dish for any occasion.
    Get the Recipe: Marinated Turkey Tenderloin

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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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