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    Home / Roundups

    29 Quick Air Fryer Meals to Save Your Evenings

    By Lisa MarcAurele · May 18, 2025 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    A collage of four air fryer meals: roast chicken with potatoes, a grilled cheese sandwich, glazed chicken wings, and shrimp vegetable skewers. Text reads "Quick air fryer meals to save your evenings.

    When evenings get hectic, I always look for ways to get dinner on the table without making a mess or spending an hour in the kitchen. That’s why I rely on quick air fryer meals—they cook fast, clean up easily, and actually taste good. If you’re trying to make weeknights run smoother, these are worth keeping on hand.

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

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    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 are perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner that comes together in no time. The air fryer keeps them juicy with just a few minutes of cooking, making it an easy choice for busy evenings. The smoky, charred flavor is sure to please everyone. Simple yet satisfying, this dish is ideal for those evenings when you need a delicious meal in a flash. They’re great for pairing with your favorite sides or serving alone.
    Get the Recipe: Grilled Shrimp Skewers

    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.

    Pork belly bites are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, ready in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. These bites are a fantastic way to enjoy a popular dish with minimal effort, perfect for saving you time in the kitchen. The air fryer gives them a golden, crispy finish without the hassle of deep-frying. They're easy to prepare and great for dinner or as a hearty snack. Ideal for evenings when you crave something flavorful and quick.
    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.

    Chicken kabobs in the air fryer cook up fast, offering a balanced and tasty meal with minimal preparation. With a little seasoning, these skewers come out perfectly cooked, juicy on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside. They’re a versatile meal, and you can swap in your favorite veggies or marinades. This recipe is ideal for a quick and easy meal that will keep everyone happy. The best part? No need for grilling or much clean-up.
    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.
    Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These bacon-wrapped salmon bites are an excellent choice when you want a flavorful, protein-packed meal with minimal effort. The air fryer crisps up the bacon perfectly, while keeping the salmon moist. With just a few ingredients, you can make this dish in a hurry. It’s a great option for a quick dinner after a busy day. The smoky bacon combined with tender salmon is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
    Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Salmon Bites

    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.

    Air fryer boneless chicken thighs are quick to prepare and cook in less than 20 minutes. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a crisp exterior, making it an easy choice for busy evenings. This recipe requires very little prep and offers a flavor-packed meal the whole family will enjoy. It’s a perfect option for those nights when you need a satisfying dish fast. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs

    Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

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

    A whole chicken in the air fryer is a game-changer for busy weeknights. In under an hour, you get a crispy, golden-brown chicken that's juicy inside, without the hassle of a traditional oven. The air fryer makes cooking a whole bird easier than ever, freeing up your time for other tasks. It’s a simple, no-fuss dinner that’s sure to impress. Perfect for when you want a hearty meal in less time.
    Get the Recipe: Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

    Air Fryer Cornish Hen

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

    This air fryer Cornish hen cooks up quickly with crispy skin and tender meat, making it perfect for busy evenings. The small size of the hen ensures fast cooking time while still providing a full meal for one or two. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that doesn’t take long to prepare. The air fryer works its magic, making the hen juicy on the inside and crisp on the outside. Ideal for when you’re craving something special but need it fast.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cornish Hen

    Chicken Nuggets

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

    Homemade chicken nuggets in the air fryer are a healthier, faster alternative to frozen options. They cook up crispy and golden in no time, making them a great choice for busy nights when you want something quick. These nuggets are flavorful and easy to customize with your favorite seasonings. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike, and cleanup is a breeze. A great way to enjoy a quick meal without sacrificing taste.
    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.

    Baby back ribs in the air fryer cook up tender and juicy in a fraction of the time it takes in the oven. You get all the flavors of slow-cooked ribs without the wait, making this an ideal option for a speedy dinner. The air fryer makes them perfectly crispy on the outside while keeping the meat fall-off-the-bone tender. This recipe gives you the satisfaction of a classic barbecue meal with a lot less time and effort. Great for those evenings when you crave ribs but don’t want to spend all night cooking.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs

    Air Fryer Tuna Melt

    A grilled cheese tuna sandwich is cut in half on a plate.
    Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    The air fryer tuna melt is a quick and comforting meal that combines crispy bread, melted cheese, and a flavorful tuna filling. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s ready in no time, perfect for an evening when you want something fast but filling. The air fryer gives the bread a golden, crunchy texture without drying out the filling. It’s a great twist on the classic tuna melt that you can enjoy anytime. Perfect for when you’re looking for something simple but satisfying.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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

    Chicken tenders in the air fryer are a quick, crispy solution for weeknight dinners. They cook up golden brown in just a few minutes, providing a family-friendly meal with minimal effort. These tenders are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, a winning combination that makes dinner easy. You can customize the breading with your favorite spices, making it your go-to for a speedy meal. Ideal for when you need something fast that everyone will enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    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.

    Air fryer chicken legs are a quick and easy option when you need a meal on the table fast. The air fryer makes them crispy on the outside while keeping them juicy and tender on the inside. With just a few seasonings, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready in under 30 minutes. These chicken legs are great for busy evenings and can be paired with any side for a complete meal. They’re simple to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Legs

    Honey Mustard Pork Chops

    Honey Mustard Pork Chops. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

    Honey mustard pork chops in the air fryer are a fast and flavorful way to get a satisfying meal on the table. The sweet and tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender pork, creating a dish that’s both easy and delicious. These chops cook quickly in the air fryer, making them an ideal choice for busy nights. They’re perfect for serving with mashed potatoes, rice, or veggies. The air fryer ensures they stay juicy while getting a nice golden finish.
    Get the Recipe: Honey Mustard Pork Chops

    Lamb Rib Chops

    Lamb Rib Chops. Photo credit: My Best Air Fryer Recipes.

    Lamb rib chops in the air fryer cook up quickly and are packed with flavor. The air fryer crisps the outside while keeping the meat tender and juicy, so you get a restaurant-quality dish in less time. This recipe requires minimal prep and cooks in just a few minutes. Lamb rib chops are perfect for when you want something a little more special without a long cooking time. A great option when you want a quick, savory meal.
    Get the Recipe: Lamb Rib Chops

    Rib Eye Steak

    Rib Eye Steak. Photo credit: Simply Happy Foodie.

    A rib-eye steak in the air fryer cooks to perfection in no time, giving you that savory, juicy steak you crave. It’s quick to prepare and cooks in just a few minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. The air fryer creates a crispy, flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This is a simple yet satisfying meal for when you want steak but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s the perfect balance of fast and delicious.
    Get the Recipe: Rib Eye Steak

    Dry-Rubbed Pork Roast

    Dry-Rubbed Pork Roast. Photo credit: Mary's Whole Life.

    A dry-rubbed pork roast in the air fryer cooks quickly and results in a flavorful, tender roast. The air fryer crisps up the outside while keeping the inside moist, making this a great option for a fast and hearty meal. It’s an easy-to-prepare dish with minimal cleanup, perfect for a busy evening. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal that doesn’t take hours to cook. The air fryer gets the roast just right in a fraction of the time.
    Get the Recipe: Dry-Rubbed Pork Roast

    Chicken Fajitas

    Chicken Fajitas. Photo credit: Deliciously Home Cooked.

    Chicken fajitas made in the air fryer come together quickly with minimal effort. The chicken and peppers cook up evenly, creating a flavorful filling for wraps or bowls in no time. This dish is easy to prep, and it’s ready in under 30 minutes. The air fryer ensures the chicken stays juicy while the peppers get just the right amount of crispness. A quick, flavorful meal that the whole family can enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Fajitas

    Chicken Sausage

    Chicken Sausage. Photo credit: Little Nonni.

    Chicken sausage in the air fryer cooks fast and results in a perfectly browned, juicy sausage. With minimal prep time, this meal is ideal for busy evenings when you need something simple and filling. The air fryer ensures the sausage is crispy on the outside while keeping the inside tender. Perfect for serving with vegetables, pasta, or as a quick snack. This dish is easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Sausage

    Pork Roast

    Pork Roast. Photo credit: The Fast Recipe Food Blog.

    A pork roast in the air fryer cooks up quickly, making it perfect for those evenings when you need something hearty but don’t have a lot of time. The air fryer ensures the outside gets crispy while keeping the inside tender and juicy. It’s a simple, no-fuss meal that doesn’t require hours of cooking. Pair with your favorite sides for a complete, satisfying dinner. This is an easy way to enjoy a delicious pork roast without the long wait.
    Get the Recipe: Pork Roast

    Teriyaki Salmon

    Teriyaki Salmon. Photo credit: Three Kids, Three Cats, and a Husband.

    Teriyaki salmon in the air fryer cooks up in just a few minutes, giving you a flavorful meal without the wait. The air fryer ensures the salmon cooks evenly, with a crispy exterior and tender interior. The teriyaki glaze adds a sweet, savory touch that makes this a perfect quick dinner option. Serve it with steamed veggies or rice for a complete meal. It’s a great way to enjoy salmon with minimal effort.
    Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Salmon

    Chuck Roast

    Chuck Roast. Photo credit: Corrie Cooks.

    Chuck roast in the air fryer is a great way to enjoy a hearty meal in less time. The air fryer gets the roast tender while creating a nice crust on the outside. With minimal prep, it’s ready in just under an hour, making it a perfect choice for busy nights. Pair with vegetables or potatoes for a complete dinner that’s easy to make. It’s a great option for when you want a filling, flavorful meal quickly.
    Get the Recipe: Chuck Roast

    Gochujang Chicken Wings

    Gochujang Chicken Wings. Photo credit: Sense & Edibility.

    Gochujang chicken wings in the air fryer are packed with flavor and cook up quickly. The spicy-sweet gochujang glaze makes these wings irresistible, and the air fryer ensures they’re crispy on the outside. They’re perfect for a fast dinner or as an appetizer. With minimal prep and cook time, they’re ideal for busy evenings. A great way to enjoy bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
    Get the Recipe: Gochujang Chicken Wings

    BBQ Chicken

    BBQ Chicken. Photo credit: Flavor the Moments.

    BBQ chicken in the air fryer cooks up quickly with a perfect crispy skin and tender meat. The air fryer makes it easy to enjoy that smoky BBQ flavor without firing up the grill. It’s a great choice for a fast, easy dinner that the whole family will love. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal. The air fryer cuts down the cooking time, making it ideal for busy nights.
    Get the Recipe: BBQ Chicken

    Fried Chicken

    Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Simply Happy Foodie.

    Fried chicken in the air fryer is a quick, less-messy version of the traditional fried favorite. The air fryer crisps up the chicken perfectly, while keeping it juicy on the inside. It’s a fast, easy way to enjoy fried chicken with minimal cleanup. This dish is ideal for when you’re craving comfort food but need it done quickly. A satisfying meal that’s ready in no time.
    Get the Recipe: Fried Chicken

    Chicken Tenders

    Chicken Tenders. Photo credit: A Cedar Spoon.

    Chicken tenders in the air fryer are a quick fix when you need something fast and reliable for dinner. They cook evenly and come out crispy without extra oil. This is a great option for feeding kids or keeping things simple after a busy day. You can pair them with just about anything, from fries to salad. It’s the kind of meal that helps you keep evenings running smoothly without much work.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Tenders

    Marinated Turkey Tenderloin

    Marinated Turkey Tenderloin. Photo credit: Dinners Done Quick.

    Marinated turkey tenderloin comes out juicy and full of flavor after just a short time in the air fryer. It’s a practical option for a protein-rich dinner that feels a little more special than usual. With minimal cleanup and easy prep, this one helps take the pressure off your evening. Slice it up for sandwiches, bowls, or to go with vegetables. It’s a smart pick when you want something different but don’t have a lot of time.
    Get the Recipe: Marinated Turkey Tenderloin

    Chicken Thighs

    Chicken Thighs. Photo credit: Flavor the Moments.

    Air fryer chicken thighs are ideal for weeknights thanks to their quick cook time and rich flavor. The skin turns out crispy while the inside stays tender. You don’t need much effort to make this a full meal—just add rice or a simple side. It’s a dependable dinner choice when you’re short on time but still want something warm and filling. This one fits right into any routine where fast meals matter.
    Get the Recipe: Chicken Thighs

    Salmon Bites

    Salmon Bites. Photo credit: A Cedar Spoon.

    Salmon bites cook fast in the air fryer and are easy to portion for bowls, salads, or wraps. The outside crisps up nicely while the inside stays soft and flaky. These are a great way to fit seafood into your week without overcomplicating dinner. Great for nights when you want something quick that feels a little lighter. They help take the guesswork out of what to make when time is tight.
    Get the Recipe: Salmon Bites

    Brats with Peppers and Onions

    Brats with Peppers and Onions. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

    Brats with peppers and onions cook together in the air fryer for a hearty meal that’s ready fast. It’s a simple combo that still feels complete without needing extra sides. The sausages come out browned, and the vegetables get tender in about 20 minutes. This one’s perfect for a hands-off dinner when you’ve got other things to juggle. It’s a dependable pick that keeps the evening moving without extra cleanup.
    Get the Recipe: Brats with Peppers and Onions

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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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