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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 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.
Air Fryer Pesto & Egg Bagel
Transform your morning routine with this Air Fryer Pesto & Egg Bagel. In my opinion pesto and eggs create a match made in heaven, and when paired with crispy cheese and a bagel, it’s simply sublime. With just 3 easy steps and a cooking time of only 7 minutes, you’ll whip up your first air fryer masterpiece in no time.
Air Fryer Fish & Chips
This guilt-free air fryer fish and chips recipe offers the classic flavours you love without the need for deep frying. With minimal oil and maximum flavour, this quick and easy meal is perfect for busy families. Enjoy crispy fish paired with golden fries in minutes, all while making a healthier choice!
Air Fryer Ham & Cheese Toastie / Croque
Whether you call it a ham and cheese toastie or a croque, this recipe offers a lazy yet delicious twist on a classic favourite. I typically opt for three layers and throw in some juicy tomatoes, but you can easily reduce the layers to cut down on calories if needed. This snack is not only a perfect lunch option but also an ideal starting point for air frying beginners.
Air Fryer Honey Butter Chicken
A delicious fakeaway that not only saves you money but also takes just 12 minutes to cook – a breeze compared to waiting for your local takeaway. Air Fryer Honey Butter Chicken is the ultimate meal for beginners, offering simplicity and speed without compromising on flavour. Worth every calorie in my opinion!
Air Fryer Spicy Chicken Burgers
A spicy air fryer chicken burger that rivals KFC’s signature flavour, but with a healthier twist. Customise the chicken burger with your preferred dressings for a simple, homemade fakeaway experience. Perfect for beginners looking to elevate their lunch or dinner game with the help of an air fryer.
Air Fryer Cheesy Garlic Pizza Wrap
Air Fryer Cheesy Garlic Pizza Wrap – a beginner friendly lunch option that requires just 5 ingredients and a 3-step process. With approximately 649 calories for the whole wrap, it’s substantial enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetite.
Air Fryer Parmesan & Cornflake Chicken Goujons
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Goujons that rival the deep-fried version, made with just cornflakes and Parmesan—a simple yet sensational treat for any occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a savoury snack paired with your favourite dip or seeking to elevate your lunch with a wrap filling, these goujons are sure to hit the spot.
Air Fryer Crispy Gyozas
If you’re in need of a quick and delicious lunch, this recipe is perfect. Simply grab a pack of your favourite gyozas from the supermarket and cook them in the air fryer. Serve with soy sauce or your preferred chilli oil for an extra kick.
Air Fryer Potato Skins
You have to make these Air Fryer Potato Skins – super easy to make and such a tasty snack. You can even use veggies or sweet potatoes to mix things up, and this snack helps reduce food waste – talk about a win-win. So, grab your air fryer, pop in those potato skins, and get ready for a delicious treat that’s easy on prep and big on flavour.
Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas
Spicy, colourful chicken fajita wraps are so quick and easy to make in the air fryer, you can whip them up at any time of day. Make your own guacamole or use shop-bought. You could skip the wraps and have the spicy chicken with crisp tacos or rice instead.
Air Fryer Pizza Baguettes
Whether you’re craving a snack or need a quick, tasty treat, these airfryer pizza baguettes won’t disappoint. Trust me, they’re bound to become a lunch time staple.
Air Fryer Chorizo Egg Cups
The ultimate breakfast, brunch, or lunch option that’s a breeze for beginners – Air Fryer Chorizo Egg Cups. Pair these air fryer chorizo egg cups with some bread for dipping action, and you’ve got yourself a satisfying and irresistible meal. Simple, easy, and super tasty.
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Rice
You honestly can’t tell the difference. Tastes just like chicken fried rice from your local takeaway. Enjoy crispy chicken with delicious air-fried rice. Simple yet satisfying
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.
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