Welcome to a collection of 30 exciting Ninja Air Fryer recipes that will make your cooking experience quick, easy, and delicious. These recipes cover a wide range of meal options, including snacks, main dishes, and desserts, ensuring you’ll find something for every occasion.
Discover how you can transform simple ingredients into flavorful dishes using the versatile Ninja Air Fryer. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes offer clear, step-by-step instructions that make it easy to create mouth-watering meals. Enjoy the convenience and goodness of air fryer cooking with this curated list of must-try recipes.
1) Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
To make crispy chicken wings in your Ninja Air Fryer, start by preheating the air fryer to 390°F for about 3-5 minutes. This helps to create an even cooking environment.
Next, pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is important because removing excess moisture helps achieve a crispy texture.
Season your chicken wings with your choice of spices. You can use a mix of garlic salt, sea salt, black pepper, or even some parmesan cheese.
Place the wings in the air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer without overlapping to ensure even cooking.
Set the air fryer to 390°F and cook the wings for 20-24 minutes. Shake the basket or turn the wings 2-3 times during cooking for even crisping.
Once done, remove the wings and enjoy.
2) Garlic Parmesan Fries
Garlic Parmesan Fries are a delicious side dish that pairs well with many meals. These fries take little effort but deliver a lot of flavors.
First, cut the potatoes into even sticks. Soaking them in cold water for about 25 minutes helps remove excess starch.
Drain the water and pat the fries dry with a towel. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 390°F.
Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
While the fries are cooking, prepare the garlic Parmesan mixture. In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
When the cooking is complete, transfer the hot fries into the bowl with the mixture. Gently toss to coat the fries evenly. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy, garlicky, and cheesy goodness.
3) Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
Air fryer zucchini chips are a tasty and healthy snack that you can easily make at home. Start by slicing your zucchini into thin rounds, about ⅛-inch thick. Pat the slices dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the zucchini slices in a large bowl. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and toss until well-coated. You can season them with garlic powder, sea salt, and pepper, or any other spices you like.
Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Air fry the slices for about 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. You might need to adjust the time depending on your air fryer model.
For extra crispiness, you can try breading the zucchini. First, dip the slices in beaten egg, then coat them with a mixture of breadcrumbs, grated cheese, and your favorite seasonings. Air fry them at 380°F for 5-6 minutes.
Enjoy your zucchini chips as a snack or a side dish. They are perfect served with a dip like ranch or marinara sauce.
4) Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional buffalo wings. You can make them easily using your Ninja Air Fryer.
Start by cutting a head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets. In a large bowl, mix melted butter and buffalo sauce. Toss the cauliflower florets in the sauce until well coated.
Next, prepare a bread crumb mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat each floret with the bread crumbs.
Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the cauliflower in a single layer in the basket, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Set the air fryer to 400°F. Cook the cauliflower for 15-20 minutes, tossing them every 5 minutes to ensure even browning.
Once cooked, transfer the cauliflower to a bowl and toss with extra buffalo sauce if desired. Serve your Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with ranch dressing, carrot sticks, and celery for a complete snack.
These bites are crispy, spicy, and perfect for game day or a simple snack. Enjoy the flavor without the guilt!
5) Air Fried Fish Tacos
Looking for a delicious meal with minimal effort? Try these Air Fried Fish Tacos.
First, preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Cut your fish fillets into large bite-sized pieces and coat them in seasoned breadcrumbs.
Next, spray the inside of the air fryer basket with non-stick spray. Place the fish pieces inside the basket without overlapping. Spray the tops with a bit of olive oil. Cook for 6-8 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces.
While the fish cooks, prepare a quick cilantro lime slaw. Toss together shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a bit of salt. Adjust the lime juice to your taste.
Once the fish is done, warm up some tortillas. To assemble, layer each tortilla with a few pieces of crispy fish, a generous spoonful of slaw, and some cheese if you like.
Enjoy these tacos with a drizzle of your favorite sauce or extra lime juice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.
6) Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts
Brussel sprouts in the air fryer are a tasty and easy dish. Start by trimming and halving the sprouts. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can add garlic powder or chili flakes for extra flavor.
Preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 390°F. Place your seasoned brussel sprouts in the basket and cook for 10-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Your brussel sprouts should come out crispy and browned on the edges.
For a twist, you can add balsamic vinegar and brown sugar before cooking. This gives the sprouts a sweet and tangy glaze. Parmesan cheese is another great addition, adding a savory touch.
Serve your air fryer brussel sprouts hot. They make a great side for any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Adjust cooking times and seasonings to your taste. Happy cooking!
7) Honey Garlic Chicken
This Honey Garlic Chicken is a must-try for any air fryer enthusiast. It balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly.
Start by preheating your air fryer to around 360 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures even cooking.
Season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Coat them lightly with cornstarch.
Place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 380°F for 7 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
While the chicken cooks, prepare the honey garlic sauce. Combine honey, chicken stock, rice vinegar, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and black pepper in a small bowl.
Heat a pan over medium heat, melt some butter, and add minced garlic. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Mix in the honey sauce and let it simmer until it thickens slightly.
Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the honey garlic sauce until well-coated.
Serve immediately for the best texture and taste. Enjoy your delicious Honey Garlic Chicken!
8) Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a great snack or side dish. You can easily make them in your Ninja Air Fryer.
Start by cutting your sweet potatoes into thin, even sticks. This helps them cook evenly. Preheat your air fryer to around 400°F for a few minutes.
Next, place the sweet potato sticks into a large bowl. Drizzle olive oil over them. Add salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Toss them well so they are evenly coated.
Arrange the sweet potato fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Air fry at around 380°F for 12-14 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.
If you prefer extra crispy fries, you can add a bit of cornstarch when tossing the fries with the spices. This gives them added crunch.
Once done, let the fries cool slightly before serving. They pair well with a variety of dipping sauces like ketchup, aioli, or ranch dressing.
Enjoy your crispy and flavorful sweet potato fries made with your Ninja Air Fryer!
9) Crispy Tofu Nuggets
Crispy tofu nuggets are a delicious and easy snack or meal you can make in your Ninja Air Fryer. They are a fantastic option for vegans and anyone looking to try something new.
Start by wrapping tofu in a paper towel and pressing it for 10 to 30 minutes under heavy plates or using a tofu press. This removes excess moisture, making the tofu crispier.
Cut the tofu into 1-inch cubes and add them to a bowl. Mix in your favorite spices and a bit of cornstarch to coat each piece evenly. This helps to create that crispy texture you’re aiming for.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the tofu pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. For extra crispiness, you can spray the tofu with cooking spray before cooking.
Air fry the tofu for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. The tofu should be golden brown and crunchy when done.
Serve your crispy tofu nuggets with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, or sweet and sour sauce. They are perfect as an appetizer or a tasty addition to any meal.
10) Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
To make cinnamon sugar donuts in your Ninja Air Fryer, you will need biscuit dough, cinnamon, sugar, and butter.
First, preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Take the biscuit dough and cut out the centers using a small cutter to form donut shapes.
Place the donuts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for 4-6 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Flip them halfway through cooking for even browning.
While the donuts are cooking, mix together white sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Melt some butter in a separate bowl.
Once the donuts are done, remove them from the air fryer and brush each one with the melted butter. Immediately dip them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating them thoroughly.
Serve the donuts warm and enjoy their sweet, crispy exterior paired with a soft, fluffy interior.
11) Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Mozzarella sticks are always a hit, and making them in the air fryer is quick and easy. Start by setting up your dredging station. You’ll need three shallow dishes. One for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for a breadcrumb mixture.
In the breadcrumb mixture, include Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and oregano for extra flavor. Cut your mozzarella sticks into smaller pieces if needed, and freeze them for about 30 minutes. Freezing helps the coating stick better.
Roll each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each stick is well-coated.
Preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit for a couple of minutes. Spray the basket and the mozzarella sticks with nonstick spray to help them brown evenly and prevent sticking.
Place the sticks in the air fryer in a single layer. Cook at 390 degrees for 6-8 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Check them halfway through and shake the basket if necessary.
Serve your mozzarella sticks hot with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy this classic snack with your family and friends.
12) Barbecue Chicken Drumsticks
Using the Ninja air fryer to make barbecue chicken drumsticks is quick and simple.
First, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. While it heats up, pat your chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This step helps the seasoning stick better.
Next, coat the chicken with a bit of oil, like vegetable or avocado oil. Season the drumsticks with a mix of garlic salt, paprika, black pepper, and onion powder. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly.
Once your air fryer is ready, place the drumsticks in the basket. Be sure not to overcrowd them. They should not touch each other.
Cook the chicken for about 10 minutes. Then, brush the tops with your favorite BBQ sauce, flip the drumsticks, and brush the other side. Cook for another 8-10 minutes.
Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are fully cooked. When done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked barbecue chicken drumsticks with your favorite sides.
13) Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan
Start by peeling and slicing the eggplant into 1/4-inch rounds. Place breadcrumbs in a shallow dish, and in a separate bowl, scramble an egg. Dip each slice of eggplant into the egg mixture, then press it into the breadcrumbs to coat both sides evenly.
Preheat your air fryer to 370 degrees F (185 degrees C). Place the breaded eggplant slices in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not touch. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, then flip each slice. Continue cooking for an additional 4 to 6 minutes until they achieve your desired crispiness.
For a variation without breading, slice the eggplant into 1/2-inch rounds. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F for 5 minutes. Place the eggplant slices in the basket, mist lightly with olive oil spray, and spoon a small amount of marinara sauce on top. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and shredded Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
Cook these slices for about 14 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure they are crispy and golden brown on both sides. Add extra toppings like marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese if preferred before serving.
14) Breaded Shrimp
Breaded shrimp made in an air fryer are crispy, delicious, and easy to prepare. Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes. This helps achieve the perfect crunch.
In one bowl, melt some butter. In another bowl, mix bread crumbs and any seasonings you like. Dip each shrimp first in the butter, then in the bread crumb mixture.
Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd them. Lightly spray the tops with nonstick cooking spray. This helps them cook evenly.
Cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes on one side. Then, flip them over and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
Cooking times may vary based on the size of the shrimp. For medium shrimp (21-25 per pound), 7-8 minutes total should be enough. If you use larger shrimp, you may need to add a couple of extra minutes.
15) Teriyaki Salmon
Teriyaki salmon is a flavorful and healthy dish you can easily make in a Ninja Air Fryer. To start, pat your salmon dry with a paper towel. This helps the sauce stick better.
Next, spread a thin layer of teriyaki sauce on each fillet. You can make your own sauce or use store-bought. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F.
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, then place the salmon inside. Air fry for about 10 minutes. Check that the salmon is cooked through in the center and slightly charred on the edges.
If you like a deeper flavor, marinate the salmon beforehand. Place the fillets in a plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the teriyaki sauce over them. Let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
You can also line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Another option is to brush the basket with olive oil. These methods help maintain the salmon’s shape and texture.
16) Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are an easy and tasty dish to make in your Ninja Air Fryer. Start by preheating your air fryer to 360 degrees F.
While it’s heating, prepare your peppers by cutting off the tops and removing the seeds inside. Save the tops and dice them to use in the filling.
In a skillet, cook ground beef until it is no longer pink. Drain it, then add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cooked rice, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and diced pepper tops.
Mix everything together well. Spoon this mixture into the hollow peppers. Place the stuffed peppers into the air fryer basket, which should be sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
Cook the peppers for about 10 minutes, until they become tender. Sprinkle cheese on top and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once done, your delicious air fryer stuffed peppers are ready to serve. They make a great meal any night of the week.
17) Spicy Chickpeas
Spicy chickpeas are a delicious and healthy snack. Using your Ninja air fryer, you can make them quickly and easily.
First, preheat your air fryer to 390°F. While it’s heating, drain and rinse a can of chickpeas. Pat them dry using a towel or paper towels.
In a bowl, toss the dried chickpeas with olive oil, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This will give your chickpeas a flavorful kick.
Next, place the chickpeas in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Set the timer for 17 minutes. Shake the basket every 5 minutes to ensure they cook evenly.
Keep an eye on the chickpeas during the last few minutes. They should be crispy and golden brown. If they aren’t crisp enough, add a couple more minutes.
Once done, remove the chickpeas from the air fryer. Let them cool a bit before enjoying. The result is a crunchy, spicy snack that you can eat on its own or add to salads for extra texture.
18) Air Fryer BBQ Ribs
Cooking BBQ ribs in your Ninja Air Fryer is quick and easy. Start by peeling off the silverskin from the back of the ribs. This step makes your ribs more flavorful and tender.
Cut the rack of ribs into smaller sections to fit your air fryer basket. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
While the air fryer is preheating, prepare your seasoning mix or dry rub. Apply the seasoning generously to all sides of the ribs.
Place the seasoned ribs into the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook at 375°F for 20 minutes, flipping the ribs halfway through.
After the initial 20 minutes, reduce the temperature to 325°F and cook for another 20 minutes. This ensures the ribs cook through and stay juicy.
Once done, let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and perfectly cooked BBQ ribs straight from the Ninja Air Fryer.
19) Vegetable Spring Rolls
These vegetable spring rolls are a tasty and healthy appetizer you can make quickly.
First, heat a wok or sauté pan on medium heat. Add sesame oil, garlic, ginger, mushrooms, cabbage, carrot, and salt. Stir often and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the cabbage wilts.
Lay a spring roll wrapper flat, like a diamond. Brush a cornstarch slurry on the top corner. Place a spoonful of the cooked vegetable mixture near the bottom corner.
Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly.
Preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F. Arrange the spring rolls in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Spray the rolls lightly with oil.
Cook the spring rolls at 380°F for 8 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking. They should be crispy and golden brown when done.
Let the spring rolls cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.
20) Cajun Potato Wedges
You will need potatoes, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, and salt.
First, clean the potatoes and cut them into wedges about 1 inch thick. Rinse the wedges in cold water and soak them for about 25 minutes. Then, drain and pat them dry with a paper towel.
In a medium bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, and salt. Make sure they are well-coated.
Preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F. Place the wedges in a single layer in the air fryer’s basket. Cook for 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Serve your crispy Cajun potato wedges hot, and add more seasoning if desired. These wedges make a great snack or side dish!
21) Air Fryer Apple Chips
Air Fryer Apple Chips are a delicious and healthy snack. You only need a few ingredients: apples, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt or sugar.
Start by slicing the apples thinly. It helps to use a mandoline slicer for even slices.
Next, place the apple slices in a bowl. Add some cinnamon and salt. Mix until the slices are well coated.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overlapping the slices too much.
Set your air fryer to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the apples for 8-10 minutes. Make sure to flip the slices halfway through the cooking time. This helps them cook evenly.
Once done, transfer the apple chips to a wire rack. Let them cool for about 10-20 minutes. This will help them crisp up even more.
Enjoy your homemade apple chips as a snack or a topping for oatmeal or yogurt. They are a great alternative to regular chips and are easy to make with your Ninja Air Fryer.
22) Buffalo Chicken Tenders
Buffalo chicken tenders are a perfect mix of spicy and crunchy. Start by preheating your Ninja air fryer to 400°F. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy.
In a bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. In another bowl, whisk eggs, water, and hot sauce. This gives your chicken layers of flavor.
Coat each chicken tender in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and coat again with flour. This double coating helps the tenders achieve a nice crunch.
Place the tenders in the air fryer basket without overlapping them. Air fry at 390°F for about 12-15 minutes. Turn them halfway through to ensure both sides are cooked properly.
Check that the internal temperature of the tenders reaches 165°F. If needed, cook a bit longer. Once done, drizzle a bit more Buffalo sauce on top if you like them extra saucy.
Serve your Buffalo chicken tenders with celery sticks and your choice of blue cheese or ranch dressing. This complements the spicy tenders with a cool, creamy contrast.
23) Air Fryer Meatballs
Air Fryer Meatballs offer a quick and tasty meal option. Using your Ninja air fryer, you can make these meatballs crispy on the outside and juicy inside. Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (176°C).
Mix ground meat with minced onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper. Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook the meatballs for 5 minutes. Flip them, then air fry for another 3-5 minutes. This ensures even cooking. If they look dry, lightly spray with oil before continuing to cook.
Check the meatballs to make sure they are cooked through. The internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C). This method allows you to enjoy a healthier version of a classic dish without the hassle of frying.
You’ll find your air fryer meatballs are perfect for pasta, subs, or just as a snack. Experiment with different seasonings or sauces to suit your taste.
24) Garlic Herb Mushrooms
You’ll love making Garlic Herb Mushrooms in your Ninja Air Fryer. It’s an easy and quick dish perfect for any meal.
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F.
In a bowl, mix button mushrooms with olive oil, minced garlic, and finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary.
Once the mushrooms are fully coated, place them in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
After they turn tender and slightly golden, remove them and serve warm.
This simple yet tasty side dish goes well with almost any main course.
25) Crispy Avocado Fries
Crispy Avocado Fries are a perfect snack or side dish for any meal. Start by slicing your avocados into even strips.
Prepare three bowls for dredging. Fill one bowl with flour, garlic powder, and salt. In the second bowl, whisk together eggs. In the third bowl, add panko breadcrumbs.
Dip each avocado slice first into the flour mix, then the egg, and finally coat in panko. Make sure each piece is fully covered.
Preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 370°F. Lightly spray the basket with nonstick spray. Place the avocado slices in the basket, making sure they do not touch.
Air fry at 370°F for about 7 minutes, turning halfway through. They should be golden and crispy.
Enjoy your crispy avocado fries with your favorite dipping sauce.
26) Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus is a simple yet tasty dish. Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Trim the asparagus spears and coat them lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for added flavor.
Wrap a piece of bacon around each asparagus spear. If needed, secure the bacon with toothpicks.
Place the wrapped asparagus in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the bacon is crispy, turning halfway through cooking.
Remove the toothpicks before serving. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful bacon wrapped asparagus!
27) Crispy Fried Pickles
For a crunchy snack, try making crispy fried pickles in your Ninja Air Fryer.
First, gather your ingredients: flour, baking powder, seltzer water, salt, and breadcrumbs.
Make a batter by mixing flour, baking powder, and seltzer water until it reaches the consistency of cake batter. If it’s too thick, add more water.
Next, pat dry your pickle slices using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Dip each pickle slice into the batter, ensuring it is well-coated.
Then, coat each slice in breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F.
Place the coated pickle slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook for about 5 minutes, then flip each pickle slice.
Cook for another 5 minutes until the pickles are browned and crispy.
Serve immediately for the best texture and taste. Your crispy fried pickles pair well with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and tangy flavor!
28) Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp is a tasty and quick dish. It’s perfect for both appetizers and main courses. You will need shrimp, flour, eggs, coconut flakes, and panko bread crumbs. These ingredients give the shrimp a crispy coating that’s hard to resist.
Start by dipping each shrimp in flour. Shake off any extra flour. Next, dip the shrimp in beaten eggs. After that, press the shrimp into a mixture of panko bread crumbs and coconut flakes. Make sure all sides are evenly coated.
Preheat your air fryer to 375ºF (190ºC) or 360ºF (around 180ºC) if you prefer. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place the shrimp in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 4-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The shrimp should be golden and crispy when done.
Serve the coconut shrimp with your favorite dipping sauce. Sweet chili sauce or a homemade mayo-mustard dip would go well. This recipe is simple and doesn’t take much time, making it perfect for a quick meal. Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp!
29) Pesto Chicken
Pesto Chicken in the Ninja Air Fryer comes out moist and flavorful with minimal effort. Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, coat your chicken pieces with a generous amount of pesto sauce.
Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Place the chicken pieces in the basket, making sure they are not overlapping.
Air fry the chicken for 10 minutes. Then, turn the pieces over and cook for another 4 minutes. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches a safe 165°F.
If using chicken thighs, preheat the air fryer to 390°F. Coat each thigh well in the pesto and place them evenly in the basket. Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
For bone-in chicken, cook at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, depending on thickness. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the temperature. Enjoy your perfectly cooked Pesto Chicken!
30) Air Fryer Falafel
Air fryer falafel is a delicious and healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. To make it, you’ll start by soaking and draining chickpeas. This helps achieve the right texture.
In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, fresh parsley, cilantro, and dill. Add garlic, a small yellow onion, kosher salt, black pepper, cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Blend the mixture until it forms a coarse dough. Remember not to over-process; small chunks add a nice texture. Gradually mix in a couple of tablespoons of flour until the dough holds together well.
Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes. Roll the dough into 2-inch balls and slightly flatten them. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch.
Lightly spray the falafel balls with olive oil. Air fry them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 minutes on one side. Flip them and fry for another 6 minutes on the other side.
You can enjoy your falafel with pita bread, fresh veggies, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Benefits of Using a Ninja Air Fryer
Using a Ninja Air Fryer has several advantages, including promoting healthier eating habits, saving energy, and being highly versatile in cooking different types of meals.
Healthier Cooking
A Ninja Air Fryer allows you to cook with significantly less oil compared to traditional frying methods. This means your meals will have fewer calories and less fat. For instance, crispy chicken wings cooked in the air fryer taste similar to deep-fried ones but contain less oil.
The air frying process also helps retain more nutrients in vegetables and meats. You can enjoy guilt-free versions of your favorite fried foods, such as French fries, by using air instead of oil, thus making your meals healthier.
Energy Efficiency
The Ninja Air Fryer is more energy-efficient than a conventional oven. It preheats in just a few minutes and cooks food faster. This quick cooking time reduces overall energy usage, saving you money on your electricity bill.
Since it is compact, the air fryer uses less power, making it an excellent appliance for those looking to be more energy-conscious. The shorter cooking times also mean you won’t have to wait long for your meals, making it both economical and convenient.
Versatility in Recipes
A Ninja Air Fryer can handle a wide variety of recipes, from appetizers to desserts. You can roast, bake, and even dehydrate foods. Whether you are cooking chicken, fish, vegetables, or even cookies, this appliance can handle the task.
For example, you can make crispy snacks like onion rings, juicy main dishes like grilled salmon, and sweet treats like apple chips all with one device. Its multi-functionality makes meal preparation easier and keeps your kitchen less cluttered.
Using the preset functions helps ensure that your food is cooked perfectly every time. The Ninja Air Fryer is an all-in-one appliance that allows you to experiment with different cooking techniques and cuisines.
Tips for Perfect Ninja Air Fryer Recipes
Achieving the best results with your Ninja Air Fryer involves proper preparation, choosing the right cooking oil, and regular cleaning. Follow these tips to ensure your dishes turn out delicious every time.
Preheating Tips
Preheating your Ninja Air Fryer is key for even cooking. Simply set your fryer to the desired temperature and let it run empty for 3-5 minutes before adding food. This ensures that the fryer is hot and ready to cook food evenly.
Using this step can help achieve a crispy outer layer while maintaining a juicy inside, especially for meats and poultry. This process can slightly extend your preparation time, but it is crucial for optimal results. If your fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, just adjust the cooking time by a couple of minutes to achieve the same effect.
Choosing the Right Oil
The type of oil you use affects the taste and texture of your food. For air frying, go for oils with high smoke points like olive oil, canola oil, or avocado oil. These oils can handle the high temperatures without burning, ensuring your food cooks perfectly without any unpleasant taste.
Use an oil spray to lightly coat your ingredients. This creates a thin, even layer that helps in browning and crisping the food. Avoid using too much oil, as it can make your food greasy and can cause your fryer to smoke. Experiment with different oils to find your favorite, but always prioritize those with high smoke points.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for keeping your Ninja Air Fryer in good shape. After each use, unplug the fryer and let it cool down. Remove the basket and tray and wash them with warm, soapy water. Both parts are dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning easier.
Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth to remove any food particles or grease. Avoid using abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals that can damage the non-stick coating. Regularly check and clean the heating element to ensure efficient operation. Proper maintenance extends the life of your fryer and ensures consistent cooking performance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When using your Ninja air fryer, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the quality of your food. By focusing on key areas like avoiding overcrowding, ensuring you shake the basket, and adjusting cooking times, you’ll get the best results.
Overcrowding the Basket
It might be tempting to pack as much food as possible into the basket to save time, but this can lead to uneven cooking. When the basket is too full, air can’t circulate properly.
Foods may end up soggy or undercooked. To avoid this, always cook food in a single layer.
Work in batches if needed. This ensures each piece gets crisply cooked.
Skipping the Shake
Shaking the basket during cooking is essential for ensuring even browning and crispiness.
If you skip this step, some pieces may cook faster than others. This can leave you with both burnt and undercooked parts in the same batch.
For best results, shake the basket halfway through the cooking time. This redistributes the food and helps every piece cook the same way.
Not Adjusting Cooking Times
Recipes are guidelines, not absolutes. Your air fryer might cook at a different speed than recipes suggest.
Factors like room temperature, food size, and even altitude can affect cooking times. Always check the food a few minutes before the suggested time.
Use a meat thermometer for meats to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature. This way, you avoid both overcooking and undercooking your meals.
Following these tips helps you make the most of your Ninja air fryer every time you use it.
