Air fryers are super popular in kitchens across the UK and beyond, but lots of people still aren’t sure how to use them to the fullest. That’s where I come in! I started Bored of Lunch during lockdown, sharing tons of easy air fryer recipes. Fast forward a few years, and I’ve got millions of followers on social media and FOUR cook books!

I’ve got your back with simple recipes that’ll make tasty meals and boost your confidence with your air fryer. From yummy mains to delicious sides, these recipes are perfect for everyday cooking. So, let’s get cooking and make the most of your air fryer.

Air fryers use significantly less oil, resulting in healthier meals with fewer calories and less fat. They cook food quickly and evenly due to the rapid air circulation, saving both time and energy. Plus, they produce less heat in the kitchen compared to an oven, making them great for warmer climates or small spaces.

An air fryer is incredibly versatile. You can cook a wide range of foods, including classic favourites like chips and chicken wings. It’s also perfect for roasting vegetables, cooking fish fillets, and even baking items such as muffins and cakes. You can experiment with almost any recipe that would typically be fried, roasted, or baked.

Preheating isn’t always necessary, but some recipes do benefit from it. Preheating helps achieve a crispier texture and more even cooking, especially for foods like meat and pastries. Check your recipe—if it calls for preheating, usually 3-5 minutes is enough.

To adapt oven recipes, reduce the cooking temperature by about 20°C (36°F) and cut the cooking time by roughly 20%. Because air fryers cook faster and more intensely, keep an eye on your food to prevent overcooking. It’s always good to check for doneness a few minutes before the expected end time.

Yes, you can cook frozen foods like chips, chicken nuggets, and vegetables straight from the freezer. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Just adjust the cooking time slightly longer than you would for fresh ingredients, and make sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even results.

Lightly coat the basket with cooking spray or a small amount of oil before adding your food. You can also use air fryer silicone liners or cut pieces of greaseproof paper to fit the basket. This not only prevents sticking but also makes clean-up easier.

Enhance your air frying experience with air fryer accessories like ramekins, racks, skewers, and silicone liners. These tools allow you to expand your cooking options, making it easier to bake, roast, and grill. Check out my blog for more detailed accessory recommendations and how to use them effectively.

Typically, a light spray or about a teaspoon of oil is enough. This small amount helps to achieve a crispy texture without adding many calories. It’s perfect for dishes that traditionally require deep frying, giving you the same delicious results with much less fat.

To ensure even cooking, avoid overcrowding the basket so air can circulate freely around the food. Shake or turn the food halfway through the cooking process. For larger items, consider cutting them into smaller, evenly-sized pieces to promote uniform cooking.

Absolutely, air fryers are fantastic for reheating leftovers. They make food crispy again without drying it out, unlike a microwave. Just set the air fryer to a lower temperature, around 150-160°C (300-320°F), and heat for a few minutes until the food is warmed through and crisp.

Popular brands for beginners include Philips, Tefal, Ninja, and Cosori. These models are known for their reliability, ease of use, and positive customer reviews. Look for features like preset cooking programmes, easy-to-clean parts, and a size that fits your cooking needs.

When choosing an air fryer, consider the size of your household. For one or two people, a 3-4 litre model is usually sufficient. For larger families or if you like to cook bigger batches, a 5-6 litre model or larger is more appropriate. Make sure the air fryer fits comfortably in your kitchen space.

Clean the basket and tray after each use with warm soapy water to prevent any build-up of grease or food particles. Use a non-abrasive sponge to avoid scratching the non-stick surface. For the exterior, a damp cloth will suffice. Always refer to your manual for any specific cleaning instructions, as some parts may be dishwasher safe.

If you love easy, quick air fryer recipes like these, you can purchase my latest cookbook Air Fryer 30 Minute Meals or my best seller Healthy Air Fryer book on Amazon today.