Air Fryer - Southern Cravings

Air Fryer Whole Chicken Wings

Anna Kate — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

These air fryer whole chicken wings are crispy, succulent, and downright addicting! With just 8 ingredients and the convenience of the air fryer, this recipe delivers mouthwatering results that are impossible to resist. Serve them for game days, potlucks, and backyard get-togethers!

Whether you’re hosting friends and family or just craving a savory snack, these air fryer whole chicken wings are always a hit! Like my air fryer buffalo wings, they turn out perfectly crispy without the mess of a deep fryer.

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a recipe that’s easy to make yet delivers crowd-pleasing flavors, and these air fryer whole chicken wings do just that.

Simply toss the chicken wings with a few pantry spices and oil, then let the air fryer work its magic. The result is a plate of wings with crispy skin, juicy meat, and big, bold flavors that the whole family will love.

If you love a good dipping sauce, try this lemon pepper wing sauce! So tangy and delicious!

Ingredient Notes

Besides the chicken, all of the ingredients in this recipe are pantry staples. Here is a breakdown:

Chicken Wings: For air fryer chicken wings, it’s best to use fresh or fully thawed whole chicken wings that you can split into flats and drumettes yourself, or you can buy them already separated.
Olive Oil: Ensures the wings cook up crispy and helps the spices adhere.
Garlic Powder: Brings a rich, aromatic, and ultra-savory flavor.
Onion Powder: Adds depth and a slight sweetness to the spice blend.
Smoked Paprika: Imparts a smoky, slightly spicy undertone but doesn’t overpower the other spices.

Substitutions

Oil: Avocado oil is another option with its high smoke point and neutral taste.
Garlic & Onion Powder: You can also use garlic and onion granules. Substitute them in a 1:1 ratio for a similar seasoning taste.
Smoked Paprika: Chipotle powder or ancho chile powder can offer a similar smokiness, but use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

How to Make Chicken Wings in the Air Fryer

These air fryer chicken wings are incredibly easy to make, especially with my step-by-step instructions and tips! Here’s everything you need to know.

Preparation

Split the chicken wings and remove the tips by locating the joint that connects the tip to the rest of the wing. Use a sharp knife to cut through the joint, separating the tip from the wing.

To remove the tips completely, simply cut at the joint between the tip and the flat, discarding the tip or saving it for making stock. Meanwhile, set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cooking

Step 1
Pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel. Thoroughly drying the wings is essential to achieving that perfect crispy exterior.

Step 2
In a medium bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until they’re evenly coated. Make sure each wing is well-coated for the best flavor and texture.

Tip: Use my homemade classic chicken wing rub.

Step 3
Grease the air fryer basket and arrange the wings in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket, as this will prevent air from circulating freely and result in soggy wings.

Step 4
Bake the wings for 20-22 minutes, flipping them after 10 minutes. Use tongs for easy flipping and to keep the coating intact.

Step 5
Once the wings are done, remove them from the air fryer. If you’d like, you can toss them with your favorite sauce for extra flavor.

Expert Tip

To make the crispiest air fryer whole chicken wings, the real game-changer is making sure your wings are as dry as possible before tossing them with seasonings.

This simple step ensures the skin crisps up perfectly without being steamed inside the air fryer. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, and taking the time to pat each wing dry with paper towels makes all the difference.

Cooking Tips

Preheat the Air Fryer: While not completely necessary, a preheated air fryer starts cooking the wings immediately, reducing sticking and giving them a crispier texture.

Grease the Basket: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step is necessary even if your basket is non-stick.

Check the Temperature: Check the wings with a meat thermometer to ensure they’re fully cooked. They’re safe to eat at an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Let the Wings Rest: Give your chicken wings a few minutes to sit after they finish cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your air fryer whole chicken wings on game day with other finger foods, like air fryer frozen meatballs, ham and cheese sliders, loaded nachos with pulled pork, and pigs in a blanket.

I also love mine with air fryer frozen sweet potato fries or regular air fryer frozen fries for a crispy, comforting pairing. And don’t forget some blue cheese dressing, Alabama white BBQ sauce, ranch, or a spicy aioli to dip the wings into!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken wings are fully cooked?

Chicken wings are safe to eat when their internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the wing without touching the bone.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, but for best results, thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps achieve the crispy texture you’re after.

Why are my chicken wings not crispy?

This could be due to excess moisture on the wings or overcrowding in the air fryer basket. Ensure the wings are dry and cook them in batches if necessary.

Storing & Reheating

Air fryer whole chicken wings are best enjoyed fresh, but storing and reheating properly can help you make meals all week long! Let them cool completely before storing them.

Fridge

Cooked chicken wings can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for up to 3 days this way.

Freezer

Freezing is an option for longer storage. Arrange the cooked wings on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat the wings in the air fryer at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes until they’re heated through and crispy. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor better than microwaving.

More Chicken Recipes

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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

These air fryer whole chicken wings are crispy and downright addicting! With just a few ingredients and the convenience of the air fryer, this recipe delivers mouthwatering results that are impossible to resist. Serve them for game days, potlucks, and backyard get-togethers!

Course Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, cheap dinner, Chicken recipe, Chicken Wings

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings

Calories 159kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds chicken wings
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
cooking spray

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
Pat the wings dry with a paper towel.
In a medium bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, salt, pepper and seasonings.
Place the wings in a single layer in a greased air fryer basket.
Bake wings 20-22 minutes until skin is crisp, flipping the wings after 10 minutes.
Remove wings from the air fryer and toss with sauce as desired.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Whole Chicken Wings appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Anna Kate — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 14:39:04 +0000

This air fryer whole chicken tastes like a rotisserie chicken but requires only a fraction of the effort! With just 3 ingredients and an hour, you’ll have a balanced and nourishing meal on the table. It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners and meal prep.

You won’t believe how versatile this air fryer whole chicken recipe is! Whether you’re looking to serve it as a main dish, shred it for chicken salad and air fryer quesadillas, or slice it for sandwiches, the possibilities are endless.

Why I Love This Recipe

This air fryer whole chicken recipe is a staple in my kitchen. Since I’m all about simple, fuss-free meals, I prefer to leave the trussing and extra ingredients for someone else. This recipe is basic but absolutely delicious.

The olive oil and poultry seasoning add just the right amount of flavor, resulting in a juicy interior and a perfectly crispy skin. Plus, the air fryer makes preparation even easier yet delivers a gourmet taste. I’m always surprised at how well this recipe turns out!

Ingredient Notes

With so few ingredients required, you can make this air fryer whole chicken recipe any night of the week. Here’s a full breakdown of everything you’ll need:

Whole fryer chicken: Fryer chickens are small, tender, and have a relatively high amount of moisture, making them ideal for air frying. If you’re unsure, ask the butcher at the deli counter to point you in the right direction.
Olive oil: Helps crisp the skin and adhere the seasonings to the chicken.
Poultry seasoning: Use store-bought or homemade. I use a store-bought blend of garlic, onion, sweet chili pepper, oregano, rosemary and basil.

Substitutions

Oil: If you don’t have any olive oil, use avocado, vegetable, or canola oil.
Poultry Seasoning: If you don’t have a premade poultry seasoning, you can create your own blend using dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, sage, and marjoram. You can also use whatever spices you like to fit the cuisine, like taco seasoning, Greek seasoning, or Cajun seasoning.

How to Make an Air Fryer Rotisserie Chicken

This air fryer whole chicken recipe requires little hands-on effort, and my step-by-step instructions make it virtually foolproof. Make sure to read all my tips and tricks for the best results!

Preparation

If you have a frozen whole fryer chicken, make sure it’s completely thawed so it cooks evenly. Remove any giblets from the cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and the skin to crisp up.

Cooking

Step 1
Drizzle olive oil over the whole chicken, rubbing it in to coat it evenly. Then, season the chicken with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to rub the seasoning all over the chicken, including under the skin, for deeper flavor infusion.

Step 2
Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Once heated, spray the basket with cooking spray and place the chicken breast side down in it. Starting the chicken breast-side down helps render the fat more effectively.

Step 3
Cook it for 30 minutes, then carefully flip the chicken to the breast-side up and continue cooking for 20-30 minutes. Use a pair of sturdy tongs and kitchen gloves to protect your hands when flipping the chicken.

Step 4
Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer, ensuring it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit at the thickest part without touching the bone. Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Expert Tip

Don’t let your air fryer whole chicken go to waste by serving it too quickly! The resting period gives the juices time to redistribute, giving you much juicer and more flavorful chicken pieces.

Also, I can’t stress the importance of letting your chicken thaw completely and come to room temperature. If you cook it from frozen or half-frozen, it will cook unevenly, resulting in overcooked and undercooked places.

Cooking Tips

Dry Thoroughly: Pat the chicken dry, inside and out, to help achieve crispy skin. You don’t want any moisture (or as little as possible) on your fryer chicken.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for the best results. Most modern air fryers have a ‘preheat’ setting that takes about 3-5 minutes.

Use Cooking Spray: I highly recommend spraying the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking as it cooks.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer whole chicken works well with a wide range of sides. Pair it with a light, refreshing salad, like mixed greens with vinaigrette or my Caprese salad recipe.

For something heartier, try roasted oven roasted baby carrots, herb roasted potatoes, or air fryer frozen broccoli. For a more comforting option, shred it and add it to crustless chicken pot pie. There are too many options to list!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. To check the temperature correctly, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, not touching the bone.

What if my air fryer isn’t big enough for a whole chicken?

For smaller air fryers, consider cooking chicken pieces or a smaller bird. The main thing is to not overcrowd the basket to allow hot air to circulate freely.

How can I make the skin extra crispy?

Make sure the chicken is completely dry, and lightly coat it with oil for crispier skin. Turning the heat up slightly during the last few minutes can also help.

Storing & Reheating

Leftover air fryer whole chicken is just as delicious the next day! Just let it cool to room temperature before storing it.

Fridge
Place it in an airtight container, or tightly wrap it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezer

Freezing cooked chicken is another great option! Cut it into smaller pieces, wrap them tightly, and store them in freezer-safe bags or containers. The pieces can be frozen for up to 4 months.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes until warmed through. For the best results, let the chicken come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before reheating it.

More Main Dishes

Pulled Pork Tenderloin

Mississippi Pot Roast

Boneless Pork Ribs

Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

Loved this recipe?

If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider leaving a star rating and a comment below! Your feedback not only helps others discover my blog but also gives me valuable insights from your experience.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for the latest recipes. Thank you for supporting Southern Cravings!

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Course Dinner Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, Chicken, meal prep, rotisserie, Weeknight Meal

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 1

Resting Time 10

Total Time 1 15

Servings

Calories 298kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

3 ½ – 4 pound whole fryer chicken these are on the smaller side compared to a roaster chicken
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons poultry seasoning your choice
salt and pepper to taste Check to see if your seasoning blend already contains salt to avoid over-salting the chicken.
cooking spray

Instructions

Check the cavity of the chicken and remove the giblet back and neck if included. Pat the outside of the chicken dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a large bowl or rimmed container for easy clean up.
Drizzle both sides of the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle with the poultry seasoning. You may need more or less than the recipe calls for. Use your best judgment, making sure the chicken is well-seasoned.
Allow the chicken to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. When preheated, spray the basket with cooking spray and place the chicken breast-side down into the air fryer basket.
Cook for 30 minutes, then flip the chicken over and cook for 20-30 minutes more, or until an instant read thermometer reads 165°F.
Remove from the air fryer and rest 10 minutes before carving.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Whole Chicken appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Crab Rangoon

Anna Kate — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 19:00:48 +0000

This crab rangoon recipe features irresistibly crispy wonton pockets filled with creamy, crab-packed goodness. To keep them lighter and healthier, the rangoons are cooked in the air fryer instead of a deep fryer. Try this recipe for a better-than-takeout experience at home!

Okay, so this crab rangoon recipe requires a little leg work, but I promise it’s so worth it! With my tips, you’ll be a wonton folding pro in no time. And like my crab salad, I stick to real crab meat for the best flavors and textures.

Why I Love This Recipe

You’ve probably seen crab rangoons on Chinese takeout menus, but this dish just got even better! First, making it in the air fryer means way less oil and mess than traditional deep-frying.

Second, I use real crab meat instead of imitation crab meat commonly found in restaurant versions. Combined with rich cream cheese and savory seasonings, these crispy, crunchy bites are the perfect appetizer or finger food for holiday parties, date nights, or game days.

Ingredient Notes

You only need 6 ingredients for this air fryer crab rangoon recipe! Here’s a breakdown:

Lump crab meat: I always use real lump crab meat in my recipes. It offers the sweetest, most succulent flavor and texture. Plus, it doesn’t contain any artificial additives!
Cream cheese: Use full-fat plain cream cheese for the creamiest results. Let it soften to room temperature before starting.
Wonton wrappers: Look for wonton wrappers in your local Asian food market in the freezer section or the refrigerated section of grocery stores near egg roll wrappers.
Green Onions: Add a mild, crunchy bite and a pop of color to the filling.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give the filling a slight kick and savory depth of flavor.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex umami flavor to the filling.

Substitutions

Crab: Imitation crab, finely chopped shrimp, or even canned tuna can work in a pinch.
Cream cheese: You can also try ricotta cheese if you don’t have cream cheese.
Wrappers: Try rice paper or thin spring roll wrappers for a gluten-free option.
Green onions: Chives or finely chopped shallots also work.
Worcestershire sauce: Soy sauce is another option. Or, use tamari to make your recipe gluten-free.

How to Make

Making crab rangoon in the air fryer is easier than you might think! Follow my step-by-step instructions for the best results.

Cooking

Step 1
Add all the ingredients except crab meat to a medium mixing bowl. Stir until everything is well combined to distribute the flavors evenly.

Step 2
Gently fold the drained crab meat into the bowl with the mixed ingredients. The key here is to carefully mix the crab meat into the sauce to maintain its chunky texture.

Step 3
Lay 10 wonton wrappers on a clean, dry surface, positioning them in a diamond shape for easier folding. Cover extra wrappers with a damp cloth while you work to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle. Place a small bowl of water near your working area.

Step 4

Spoon 1 teaspoon of the crab mixture onto the center of each wrapper. Avoid overfilling the wrappers to prevent the filling from oozing during sealing and cooking.

Step 5

Brush the top left and right edges of the wonton wrapper with water. Fold the bottom corner to meet the top edge, forming a triangle, and press firmly to seal. Pressing from the center outwards helps remove any trapped air, which can cause the rangoon to burst during cooking.

Step 6

After sealing it into a triangle, wet your fingers again and brush over the center seam.

Then, fold the left and right edges of the triangle over each other to resemble an envelope with the top open. Place them on a baking sheet.

Step 7
Set your air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Place the prepared rangoons in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap for the crispiest results.

Step 8
Air fry the rangoons for 8 minutes, flip them over, and cook for another 2 minutes. Serve your freshly made crab rangoons warm with a side of sweet and sour sauce for dipping!

Expert Tip

The only time-consuming and “tricky” part of this air fryer crab rangoon recipe is folding the wonton wrappers. Start with one wrapper to practice your technique, then I strongly recommend working in batches to make your life easier.

Lay out and add filling to 10 wrappers at the same time. Then, seal all the wrappers and transfer them to a baking sheet as they are sealed. Continue working like this until the wrappers are filled and you are ready to air fry!

Cooking Tips

Seal the wontons: Remember to dampen the edges of the wonton wrappers with water before folding them to ensure a proper seal and prevent the filling from spilling out.
Filling amount: Avoid overfilling the wontons! A teaspoon of filling is enough to allow the wrapper to crisp up nicely while still encasing a generous amount.
Small batches: Fry in small batches to prevent soggy and undercooked rangoons.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the crab rangoons are done frying?

Crab rangoons are done when they’re golden brown and crispy. This process typically takes about 4-5 minutes per side. Use tongs to remove them safely from the air fryer.

Can crab rangoons be baked instead of air-fried?

Yes! You can bake them at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes until golden brown, turning once halfway through baking. Lightly brush them with oil for a crispy exterior.

How do I seal the wontons properly to prevent leaking?

Dampen the edges of the wonton wrapper with water before folding, and press the edges together firmly. For added security, you can also crimp the edges with a fork.

Storing & Reheating

If you have leftovers, they store well! Let your crab rangoons cool to room temperature before storing them to maintain their crispiness.

Fridge

You can store crab rangoons in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezer
Freeze assembled but uncooked crab rangoons on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months and fried straight from the freezer. Simply add a few minutes to the cooking time!

More Seafood Recipes

Crispy Crab Rangoons (Made in the Air Fryer)

This crab rangoon recipe features irresistibly crispy wonton pockets filled with creamy, crab-packed goodness. To keep them lighter and healthier, the rangoons are cooked in the air fryer instead of a deep fryer. Try this recipe for a better-than-takeout experience at home!

Course Appetizer

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, Seafood, take out copy cat

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 10

Total Time 40

Servings

Calories 180kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

6 ounces cream cheese softened
8 ounces lump crab meat drained and picked
2 green onions chopped (about 3 tbsp)
48 wonton wrappers
2 cloves garlic minced
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
cooking spray I used avocado
Sweet and sour sauce for dipping optional

Instructions

Add all ingredients to a medium bowl, except for the crab meat. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
Add the drained crab meat to the bowl and gently stir.

Prep Your Work Area

On a clean and dry counter or cutting board, lay out 10 wrappers diagonally. Like a diamond shape.
Place a small bowl of water on your work surface. This will be used to “seal” the filling inside each wrapper.

Assemble the Crab Rangoons

To the center of each wrapper, add 1 teaspoon of the crab mixture. Be careful not to overfill as the filling will ooze from the sides.
Now, wet your index finger with water and brush the top left and right edges of each wonton wrapper.
Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper to meet the top edge, forming a triangle. Press down to secure.
Working from the center, gently press the air out from around the filling. Be careful not to push the filling out of the wrapper.
Then, wet fingers again and brush over the center, folding the left and right edges of the triangle over each other. (This should look like an envelope with the top open). Place on a baking sheet until ready to air fry.

Cook

Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees. Lightly spray the basket of your air fryer.
Working in batches, place the rangoons in a single layer and air fry for 8 minutes. Flip and cook for 2 more minutes.
Serve warm with sweet and sour dipping sauce.

Notes

I strongly recommend working in batches. For example, add filling to 10 or so wrappers at once. Then, seal all the wrappers and transfer them to a baking sheet as they are sealed. Continue working like this until the wrappers are filled and you are ready to air fry.

Nutrition

The post Crab Rangoon appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Poached Eggs

Anna Kate — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 20:00:26 +0000

Air fryer poached eggs are a quick, easy, and convenient breakfast option ready in less than 10 minutes! Gone are the days of traditional water poaching methods and the messy aftermath. With this technique, you can achieve perfectly poached eggs in a hassle-free way!

Recently, I have been making all my favorite recipes in the air fryer because of how convenient and efficient this kitchen appliance is! This poached egg recipe has seriously revolutionized my morning routine, saving me so much wasted time. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Time efficient: There’s no need to watch and wait for your water to boil. Just add eggs to ramekins and pop them in the air fryer!
Consistent results: With an air fryer, you don’t need to be a kitchen pro to achieve the same perfect doneness every time.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the cooking time to make your air fryer poached eggs with soft or hard yolks.

What Are Air Fryer Poached Eggs?

Air fryer poached eggs are a modern twist on a classic breakfast item, taking advantage of the efficient and even cooking power of the air fryer. Using this new-and-improved method, you can now make a traditionally challenging and delicate recipe with ease!

The eggs come out with a silky-smooth white and a perfectly runny yolk, while the taste retains that fresh egg flavor. If you haven’t tried poaching eggs in the air fryer, I highly recommend it!

Enjoy them in all the same ways you’d normally serve poached eggs. Sprinkle them with a pinch of salt and herbs, then add them to the top of avocado toast or serve them as part of eggs benedict with hollandaise.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Poached Eggs

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Eggs: For the ideal taste and texture, I recommend using farm-fresh eggs. It’s also best if they are large or extra large.
Avocado oil spray: To grease the ramekins, preventing the eggs from sticking. If you don’t have avocado oil spray, use canola or olive oil spray or melted butter.
Salt & pepper: Enhance the natural flavor of the eggs. Adjust both to preference. Himalayan pink salt or sea salt can be used for a different flavor profile.
Other seasonings: These are up to you! Feel free to play around with additional herbs and spices like paprika, chives, garlic powder, everything spice, or red pepper flakes.

How To Make Air Fryer Poached Eggs

Step 1: Prep The Ramekins

Start by preheating your air fryer. While preheating isn’t completely necessary, it reduces the total cooking time of the eggs. Lightly grease the ramekins with some avocado oil spray. This ensures your eggs will slide right out!

Step 2: Season The Eggs

Crack an egg into each ramekin, then sprinkle each one with some salt, pepper, and whatever other seasonings you’d like.

Step 3: Air Fry The Eggs

Pop the ramekins into the air fryer basket, making sure there is a little space between each one. Air fry them at 370F for 6-8 minutes depending on how runny or hard you prefer your yolks.

And there you have it! You’ve just made perfectly poached eggs without even boiling water.

Do I Have To Add Hot Water To The Ramekins?

I don’t find it necessary to add hot water to the ramekins before poaching eggs in an air fryer. The circulating heat from the air fryer is enough to cook the eggs directly.

However, for a more traditional preparation, you can add a few tablespoons of water to each ramekin before adding the cracked egg.

Recipe Variations

Eggs Benedict: Serve your air fryer poached eggs on an English muffin with bacon and a drizzle of homemade hollandaise sauce.
Southwestern style: Top them with salsa, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
Spicy: Drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle with red pepper flakes before air frying.
Cheese: Sprinkle grated cheese on top before air frying for a cheesy layer.
Bacon wrapped: Wrap the ramekin’s edge with a bacon strip before cracking in the egg.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Ramekins: Ensure your ramekins are oven-safe and fit comfortably in your air fryer. They should also be deep enough to hold the eggs without overflowing.
Preheat properly: Preheat your air fryer for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
Monitor the eggs: Check the egg at the 6-minute mark to gauge the runniness of the yolk and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Avoid overcrowding: If you’re cooking multiple eggs, make sure the ramekins aren’t touching, allowing air to circulate freely.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you make a few extra poached eggs for later, follow these simple storage tips:

Fridge: Store leftover poached eggs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze poached eggs as the texture can become rubbery when they’re thawed.
Reheating: Place the egg in simmering water for about a minute to reheat without overcooking. You can also reheat it in the air fryer for a minute at 300F, but watch it closely to avoid overcooking.

Additional Recipes

If you love the convenience of air fryers, check out some more of my favorite recipes like these:

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when air fryer poached eggs are done?

Your air fryer poached eggs are done when the whites are set and the yolks are slightly runny, but you can cook them longer if you prefer a firmer yolk.

Why is my egg sticking to the ramekin?

If your egg is sticking to the ramekin, you likely didn’t grease it well enough. Make sure to use a generous amount of spray oil to prevent sticking.

Can I cook more than one egg in a ramekin?

Yes, but make sure the ramekin is large enough and adjust the cooking time.

10-Minute Air Fryer Poached Eggs

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword Breakfast, eggs, poached eggs

Prep Time 3

Cook Time 7

Total Time 10

Servings

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ramekins or other oven-proof ramekin-style dish
Air Fryer

Ingredients

Eggs
cooking spray
salt and pepper to taste or other seasonings as desired

Instructions

Preheat air fryer to 370 degrees (takes about 5 minutes)
Lightly grease ramekins and crack one egg in each ramekin.
Season as desired.
Place ramekins in the air fryer basket.
Air fry at 370 degrees F for 6-8 minutes until the yolk of the egg reaches your desired doneness.

Notes

*After about 7 minutes, the egg yolk will be soft and runny. Ideal for Eggs Benedict.

Nutrition

Serving: 1

The post Air Fryer Poached Eggs appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Quesadillas

Anna Kate — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 19:47:51 +0000

Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, air fryer quesadillas are a serious game changer! Perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or casual dinner, they give you the timeless appeal of a classic chicken quesadilla with the convenience of an air fryer. Serve them with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream!

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick & easy: Everything is prepped and cooked in under 10 minutes.
Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand in your kitchen.
Kid-friendly: Everyone loves air fryer quesadillas, even picky eaters!
Healthier option: Less oil is needed compared to traditional frying, meaning you can indulge without guilt!

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Quesadillas

Quesadillas are universally loved for their crispy exterior and melty, gooey, cheesy interior. These air fryer quesadillas are all that and more, bringing a modern and convenient twist to a classic meal.

They offer the perfect combination of tender chicken shreds and melty cheese encased in a crispy flour tortilla. Plus, the air fryer makes this recipe virtually all hands-off!

Each bite is satisfyingly crunchy without being greasy. Enjoy this chicken quesadilla recipe on its own or with your favorite dips and sides.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Quesadillas

Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for a soft yet crispy texture. However, you can also use corn tortillas or gluten-free flour tortillas if you have gluten sensitivities.
Shredded chicken: Adds protein and flavor. I like to use my Instant Pot shredded chicken recipe, but you can buy a rotisserie chicken and shred it. You can also use beef, pork, or refried beans for a vegetarian protein option.
Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a rich, creamy taste. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Chihuahua cheese are also delicious options.

How to Make Air Fryer Quesadillas

Step 1: Prep The Filling

Start by spreading shredded chicken and cheese evenly over half of your tortilla or tortillas. To prevent the tortilla from cracking, you can quickly heat it in a dry skillet or the microwave.

Step 2: Fold & Cook The Quesadilla

Fold the tortilla over the filling and place it in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 350F and cook it for 8 minutes. Remember to flip the quesadilla halfway through for even cooking! For an extra crispy exterior, you can brush or spray both sides of the tortilla with vegetable oil.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Chicken Quesadillas

Pair these quesadillas with a dollop of guacamole, a scoop of fresh salsa, a side of sour cream, or even Alabama white BBQ sauce. They’re also great with a simple green salad, air fryer frozen broccoli, or crispy air fryer potatoes as a well-balanced meal.

If you’re looking for other filling ideas besides shredded chicken, try shredded beef brisket, pulled pork, or Southern baked beans.

Recipe Variations

Veggie-forward: Load the quesadilla with grilled and sliced vegetables like bell peppers, portobello mushrooms, and red onions.
Cheesy: Mix and match different cheeses! Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or Gouda for an ultra-creamy option.
Breakfast version: Add scrambled eggs and turkey bacon bits for a quick and easy breakfast idea.
Spicy beef: Use ground beef cooked with taco seasoning for a meatier option.
BBQ chicken: Toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce before adding it to the tortilla for a tangy, smoky twist.
Vegan: Use plant-based cheese and seitan chicken for a plant-based version.
Seafood: Fill your tortilla with sautéed shrimp and a sprinkle of cilantro.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Don’t overstuff: Overstuffing will lead to messy and undercooked air fryer quesadillas. Only add the filling to one-half of the tortilla, and don’t overdo it.
Preheat the air fryer: Preheating the air fryer isn’t completely necessary but ensures you end up with a crispier outside and a perfectly melty inside.
Flip halfway: Flipping halfway results in equally crisped sides.
Check for doneness: Adjust the cooking time based on your air fryer. You may need more or less time, so check the quesadilla frequently toward the end of cooking.
Use fresh tortillas: Fresh tortillas fold easier and won’t crack.
Shred the cheese yourself: Pre-shredded varieties often contain additives to prevent clumping, which makes them dry and harder to melt. If you can, shred your own cheese.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you have any leftover air fryer chicken quesadillas, here’s how to store and reheat them:

Fridge: Once cooled, store the quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the quesadillas individually and freeze them for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat them in the air fryer for 5-6 minutes at 350F, flipping halfway for the best results. You can cook them straight from frozen, adding a few more minutes.

Additional Recipes

If you loved this chicken quesadilla recipe, you’ll love these other crispy air fryer recipes:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without an air fryer?

Absolutely! Quesadillas can easily be made by using a skillet. Follow the same assembly instructions, then cook the quesadillas in the skillet over medium heat until they’re golden brown on each side.

What’s the best way to flip the quesadilla in the air fryer?

You can easily flip the quesadillas in the air fryer with a spatula or tongs. Just make sure to do it carefully so they don’t fall apart!

Can I add raw ingredients to the quesadilla?

It’s always best to cook ingredients before adding them to the quesadilla to ensure even cooking. I prefer cooked and shredded chicken, pork, beef, or refried beans.

Easy Air Fryer Quesadillas (in Less Than 10 Minutes)

Course Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine Mexican

Keyword air fryer recipe, easy recipes, quesadilla

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 8

Total Time 13

Servings

Calories 351kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

1 tortilla corn or flour, more for additional quesadillas
¼ cup shredded chicken
½ cup mexican blend cheese taco blend, etc.
Optional toppings: guacamole sour cream, salsa, etc.

Instructions

Lay out each tortilla. On one half of the tortilla, evenly spread the chicken and cheese on one half of the tortilla.
Fold the tortilla over and place in the air fryer basket. Cook at 350F for 8 minutes or until the quesadillas are crisp and golden on the outside and melty on the inside. Don’t forget to flip half way through.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Quesadillas appeared first on Southern Cravings.

How To Use An Air Fryer

Anna Kate — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 20:43:32 +0000

Are you the proud new owner of an air fryer or considering purchasing one? In this guide, learn all the essentials of how to use an air fryer, how to upkeep it, and the best brands! Pretty soon, you’ll be air-frying everything in sight, from vegetables to bagel bites!

I don’t know what I ever did before I owned an air fryer! Honestly, it has made my life in the kitchen so much easier. I use it every day to make just about anything, like air fryer frozen broccoli, air fryer potatoes, or even air fryer frozen pizza rolls.

You might be wondering if this is just another over-hyped appliance, but I’m here to tell you it’s anything but! It always delivers crispy, delicious foods without having to use much (if any) oil. Plus, it’s such an energy saver! So, are you ready to learn how to use an air fryer?

What Is An Air Fryer?

An air fryer is the ultimate piece of kitchen equipment that serves various functions, including frying, roasting, baking, broiling, dehydrating, and reheating. These compact devices are similar to convection ovens but outperform them with faster, more uniform cooking and crisping abilities.

You can purchase two main types, which include air fryer ovens and basket air fryers. Air fryer ovens look similar to toaster ovens and use a wire mesh rack to fry food, whereas basket air fryers are equipped with a removable drawer that houses the food.

You can usually find more features on air fryer ovens, but they take up more room on the counter. If you’re living in a small space, this is something to keep in mind.

How Does It Work?

Air fryers employ a heating element and a fan to circulate hot air around the food in the basket. This method of hot air circulation results in perfectly crispy, golden-brown food.

Additionally, air frying substantially reduces the amount of oil needed compared to traditional deep frying or even oven roasting, making it a healthier alternative. Once you get the hang of how to use an air fryer, you’ll be amazed by how much it simplifies your cooking experience!

How To Use An Air Fryer

Learning how to use an air fryer is much easier than you might think. Remember, it was designed with simplicity in mind, so there are only a few things you really need to know.

Step 1: Keep Food Dry

It’s important that any food going into the air fryer be dry. Of course, you can put frozen foods in there. However, if you’ve washed fresh foods, don’t forget to pat them dry with a paper towel before adding seasonings to achieve the crispiest texture.

Step 2: Keep Food In a Single Layer

If you stack foods on top of one another in the basket, the air won’t be able to circulate freely, resulting in steamed rather than crispy food. Remember to cook in batches if necessary!

Step 3: Lower The Temperature

Typically, an air fryer will run hotter than your oven. With this in mind, set the air fryer’s temperature around 25 degrees F lower than the oven temperature you’d normally use.

Step 4: Shake The Food

It’s always a good idea to check the food halfway through the cooking process. At this point, you can make sure it’s cooking properly and shake or flip it to achieve even browning.

Reheating Food in an Air Fryer

Reheating foods in an air fryer is a great way to crisp them up again. As a general guideline, set the air fryer about 25-30 degrees F lower than the original cooking temperature.

You can lightly coat the food in a bit of oil to help it re-crisp. If the food was originally deep-fried or breaded, this step is particularly important.

After heating the food for about 3-5 minutes, check to see if it’s heated through. If not, continue heating in 1-minute increments until it reaches the desired temperature.

Do You Have To Preheat An Air Fryer?

Most air fryer manufacturers recommend preheating their air fryers before adding food in. This will result in more consistent and accurate cooking times. Now, this doesn’t mean that you have to preheat it every time. I’m definitely guilty of this!

If you choose not to preheat your air fryer, the food might take a little longer to achieve your desired crispiness. However, for certain foods (like broccoli or cauliflower) that take longer to cook, preheating may not be necessary.

Tips For Using Your Air Fryer

Don’t overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the basket for the crispiest results. If you add too much food, it prevents air circulation and results in a steamed texture.
Use manual mode: Set it to manual mode for optimal control over temperature and cooking time. There are a lot of preset functions, but I find adjusting the temperature and time myself works much better.
Use the right oil: Use oil with a high enough smoke point for the temperature you’re air frying at.

Cleaning Your Air Fryer

Like any kitchen gadget, air fryers require cleaning to function optimally. If you take good care of your air fryer, you can really extend its life. Here are a few tips to keep your air fryer in tip-top shape:

Don’t procrastinate: Clean your air fryer soon after use to prevent food residues from sticking and becoming hard to remove.
Clean the removable parts: Clean all removable parts with soap and warm water using a cloth or a soft sponge.
Focus on the details: For small crevices and hard-to-reach areas, use a toothpick, wooden skewer, or Q-tips to clean them.
Check inside and outside: Don’t overlook the heating element and exterior of the air fryer. A lemon can be used to get rid of stubborn grease and odors.
Dry the parts: Dry all removable parts as well as the outside of the air fryer before storing them to prevent anything from rusting.

Air Frying Recipes to Try

To kickstart your air-frying journey with this versatile gadget, test it out on some recipes like these:

The post How To Use An Air Fryer appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Tater Tots

Anna Kate — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 20:29:31 +0000

Whip up a batch of air fryer tater tots and bring back childhood memories with every crispy, crunchy bite. Forget soggy, half-baked tots from your oven! With the air fryer, they turn out deliciously golden every time. This speedy and straightforward method guarantees crowd-pleasing results.

It’s no secret that I use my air fryer for virtually everything these days. From air fryer frozen broccoli to air fryer buffalo wings, this versatile appliance has revolutionized my cooking routine.

Tater tots have always been one of my favorite comfort foods. With the air fryer, I can have them ready in no time at all. I don’t know how I didn’t think of this sooner!

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick: Air fryer tater tots are ready in less than 20 minutes, making this recipe something you can always have on hand when you’re running short on time or creativity.
Crispy: The air fryer creates an irresistibly crunchy and perfectly golden crust. It really doesn’t compare to baking them in the oven.
Easy: Open a bag and pop the frozen tots into the preheated air fryer. It doesn’t get much easier than that!

Crispy Air Fryer Tater Tots

Tater tots are a classic American food item. If you haven’t heard of them, you’ve likely been living under a rock! Originally created in the 1950s by the Ore-Ida company as a way to utilize leftover bits of cut-up potatoes, they’ve since become a beloved side dish nationwide.

These tiny nuggets of potato are perfectly crispy on the outside with a fluffy, tender interior. The air frying technique results in a superior crunch that oven-baking simply can’t match.

While they’re excellent on their own, they also pair well with a variety of seasonings, like garlic, paprika, or Italian herbs, for added flavor. Serve them hot out of the air fryer with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Tater Tots

Frozen tater tots: Use your favorite brand, but I usually opt for Ore-Ida or McCain. If you can’t find frozen tots, you could also use frozen hash browns or potato croquettes.
Cooking spray: I prefer avocado oil for air-frying, but any neutral vegetable oil with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut, will work.
Salt: Helps to bring out the natural flavors of the potatoes. You can also use seasoned salt for a spin on the classic tater tots flavor profile.
Other seasonings: This is where you can get creative! Try garlic powder, onion powder, taco seasoning, cracked black pepper, dried herbs, or even some chili powder for a kick.

How to Make Air Fryer Tater Tots

Step 1: Preheat And Prep

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400ºF. While it’s heating, add your tater tots and coat them with some avocado oil cooking spray.

Step 2: Season The Tots

Next, season your tots as desired and toss them to ensure they’re evenly coated. The beauty of this step is that you can tailor the flavor to your own preferences.

Step 3: Air Fry The Tater Tots

Finally, let your tater tots cook for 15 minutes, tossing every 5-8 minutes to ensure they brown evenly on each side. If you prefer extra crispy tots, feel free to leave them in the air fryer for a bit longer.

How To Serve Tater Tots

Tater tots in the air fryer are a versatile side dish that pairs well with burgers, hot dogs, or even chicken breasts. They’re also the perfect size for skewering, making them a fun addition to a party spread.

And if you’re a dip person like me, serve them alongside ketchup, or change things up with homemade aioli or Alabama white BBQ sauce. You can even experiment with some fun recipes, like tater tots nachos or a tater tots casserole.

Recipe Variations

Cheesy: Toss in Parmesan and garlic powder before cooking for a garlicky and cheesy twist.
Spicy: Add some Cajun or cayenne powder for a spicy kick.
Mexican: Sprinkle with ancho chile powder and a squeeze of lime for a Mexican-inspired flavor.
Indian-inspired: Toss your tater tots in some curry powder, then serve them with a side of chutney for dipping.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Preheat: Preheat your air fryer before adding the tater tots for the crispiest results.
Don’t overcrowd: Don’t overload the air fryer. If you need, cook the tots in batches so they air fry in a single layer.
Flip the tots: Flip the tater tots throughout to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
Oil: Make sure to coat the tots well with cooking spray for the best crunch. If you don’t have spray, you can toss them in oil instead.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover tater tots, follow these simple storage and reheating tips:

Fridge: Once your tater tots have cooled, store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: You can actually refreeze your tater tots if you’re not going to eat them within a few days. Just add them back into a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to a month.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 400F for a few minutes until hot and crispy. Remember to toss them a few times throughout.

Additional Recipes

If you enjoy air fryer recipes as much as I do, then you’ll love making these recipes:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of frozen potato product for this recipe?

Absolutely! Instead of tater tots, you can cook fries, wedges, croquettes, or hash browns in the air fryer. Just keep in mind that each of these may take a different amount of time to cook, so always refer to the package instructions.

Do tater tots need to be thawed before cooking them in the air fryer?

No! The best part about tater tots is that you can just pop them in the air fryer right out of the bag. The cold ensures they retain their shape while achieving an ultra-crispy crust and fluffy interior.

Can I make tater tots in the oven if I don’t have an air fryer?

Of course! If you don’t have an air fryer you can still achieve a similar level of crispiness. Just cook them at a higher temperature in the oven. I suggest 425F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway. Just keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Crispy Air Fryer Tater Tots

Whip up a batch of air fryer tater tots and bring back childhood memories with every crispy, crunchy bite. Forget soggy, half-baked tots from your oven! With the air fryer, they turn out deliciously golden every time.

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Side Dish Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword potato dishes, snack, tater tots

Cook Time 15

Servings

Calories 141kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

16 ounces frozen tater tots
cooking spray I use avocado oil bc of high smoke point
salt
Other seasoning as desired

Instructions

Preheat air fryer to 400ºF. Add the tots to the air fryer, and coat with cooking spray.
Season as desired and toss to coat.
Cook for 15 minutes on 400ºF, tossing every 5-8 minutes so the tots brown evenly. Continue cooking for longer for crispier tots.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Tater Tots appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Anna Kate — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

These air fryer salmon bites are perfect for when you’re craving a quick, simple, and healthy meal. Use this versatile protein for making sushi bowls, serving with fresh vegetables, or bulking up your favorite salads. Customize the seasonings to suit your taste, and enjoy a dish that’s ready in minutes!

I’ve always loved salmon, so when I discovered salmon in the air fryer, I knew it was going to be a game-changer! This dish has now become my go-to for busy weeknights and meal prepping.

Just like my other air fryer recipes, it’s virtually all hands-off and so simple to prepare! You can change up the seasonings from recipe to recipe to make it feel different each time. Some of my favorite flavor combinations include lemon pepper and Old Bay.

Why I Love This Recipe

Perfect for meal prep: Make a double or triple batch of these air fryer salmon bites for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week.
Quick: Air frying the salmon bites takes just 5-6 minutes! It’s the perfect option when you’re short on time.
Healthy: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. It’s a great source of protein to include in your weekly meal plan.
Versatile: Pair your air fryer salmon bites with a variety of sides for endless meal options. Think sushi bowls, salads, rice, or air fryer broccoli.

What Are Air Fryer Salmon Bites?

Air fryer salmon bites are a modern twist on a classic dish, with the convenience of an air fryer making it faster and healthier. If you’re looking for a quick, nutritious, and flavor-packed meal, this recipe is the answer!

The bites are tender with a crispy exterior thanks to the air frying process. This simple technique results in a perfectly moist and flaky fish with a golden-brown color. I don’t know what I ever did before I owned this kitchen appliance!

You can enjoy air fryer salmon bites with dip for an appetizer, serve them as part of a spread at a potluck, or pair them alongside roasted vegetables or a salad. You can even include them as part of a sushi or poke bowl.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Salmon: Salmon provides a rich, buttery flavor. You can use any type of salmon you prefer. Atlantic salmon is the most widely available and inexpensive option, but I find sockeye and King salmon (both wild-caught) are the firmest and most flavorful choices.
Avocado oil: This mild, heart-healthy oil helps the seasonings stick to the salmon. You can also use olive oil or any neutral-flavored vegetable oil.
Seasonings: Customize the flavor of your salmon bites by using your favorite spice blends. Some options include lemon pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Old Bay, Cajun seasoning, blackened seasoning, or even a simple mix of salt and pepper.

How To Make Salmon In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare The Salmon

You can use skinless or skin-on salmon filets. If you’re using a skin-on filet, remove the skin by carefully sliding a sharp knife between the skin and the flesh. Then, cut the salmon into 1-inch uniform cubes.

Here is my full tutorial on how to remove salmon skin.

Step 2: Season & Air Fry The Salmon Bites

Once the salmon bites are cubed, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. In a large bowl, toss the salmon with avocado oil and your preferred seasonings. Spread the seasoned salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and cook them for 5-6 minutes or until opaque and flaky.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Garnish your air fryer salmon recipe with a squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a drizzle of your favorite sauce.

Enjoy these bites by themselves or with a side of broccoli, a fresh Caprese salad, rice, or mashed potatoes. You can also use them as a topping for sushi bowls and poke bowls.

Recipe Variations

Asian-inspired: Use a teriyaki or soy-ginger marinade for an Asian-inspired flavor.
Mediterranean: Season the bites with garlic, lemon, and oregano.
Spicy: Add a touch of Sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Honey-mustard: Toss the salmon bites in a store-bought or homemade honey-mustard sauce.
Herb-crusted: Coat the salmon in a mixture of fresh herbs and breadcrumbs.
BBQ: Toss the salmon bites in your favorite BBQ sauce before cooking them.
Pesto: Mix the salmon bites with basil pesto for a vibrant and herbaceous finish.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Quality salmon: Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.
Remove bones: Look for and remove any bones from the salmon before cutting it into cubes.
Pat dry: Pat the salmon dry before cutting and seasoning it to ensure an even coating.
Preheat: Preheat the air fryer for 5 minutes so the salmon bites cook evenly.
Don’t overcrowd: Make sure the salmon bites are in a single layer and not overlapping each other to prevent steaming them, resulting in a soggy texture.
Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. You want to aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for salmon.
Adjust the cooking time: You may need to cook the salmon bites for more or less time based on the thickness of your cubes.
Serve immediately: Serve salmon in the air fryer right away for the best texture.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you have leftover air fryer salmon bites, follow these simple storage and reheating tips:

Fridge: Store leftover air fryer salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled first.
Freezer: Wrap the cooled salmon bites in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. You can store them for up to 3 months this way.
Reheating: Reheat the salmon bites in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes, or until they are warmed through to your liking.

Additional Recipes

If you enjoyed this air fryer salmon recipe, take a peek at some more of my favorite appetizers and snacks like these:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before cutting and seasoning it.

How can I tell when the salmon bites are done?

It’s best to use a meat thermometer to be sure the internal temperature reaches 135°F. If you don’t have one, the salmon bites should appear opaque and flaky.

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

You can use other firm, flaky fish, like halibut or cod, but the cooking time, taste, and texture will vary based on the type of fish.

Can I cook the salmon bites in a conventional oven?

Absolutely! If you don’t own an air fryer, you can bake the salmon bites at 425°F for 8-10 minutes, or until opaque and flaky.

Can I leave the skin on for this recipe?

It’s best to remove the skin for a better texture and more even cooking.

Quick and Easy Air Fryer Salmon Bites

These air fryer salmon bites are perfect for when you're craving a quick, simple, and healthy meal. Use this versatile protein for making sushi bowls, serving with fresh vegetables, or bulking up your favorite salads. Customize the seasonings to suit your taste, and enjoy a dish that's ready in minutes!

Course Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer recipe, easy dinner, salmon, Seafood

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 6

Total Time 16

Servings people

Calories 60kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

8 ounces salmon skin removed
1 teaspoon Avocado oil
Seasonings of your choice

Instructions

#1 – Remove Salmon Skin

Using a sharp knife, make a shallow cut between the skin and the flesh of the salmon (about an inch in).
Then, carefully slide the knife along the length of the fillet at an angle. Keep the blade as close to the skin as possible. Gently pull the skin away as continue to slide the knife between the skin and the flesh.

#2 Prepare + Cook Salmon

Preheat air fryer to 400° F.
Cut salmon into 1 inch uniform cubes and place in a large bowl. Remove any stray bones you find.
Drizzle salmon with avocado oil. Toss with seasoning to coat.
Spread salmon evenly in one layer in air fryer basket.
Cook at 400° F for 5-6 minutes or until salmon is cooked to desired doneness. (optimal temperature is 135)

Notes

Seasoning Ideas:

Lemon Pepper Seasoning
Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder
Classic mix of salt and pepper
Blackened Seasoning
Old Bay/cajun seasoning

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Salmon Bites appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Hot Dogs

Anna Kate — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 19:13:32 +0000

Air fryer hot dogs achieve that nostalgic taste and texture everyone loves without the need to fire up the grill! This simple, fuss-free method results in juicy hot dogs in a matter of minutes. They’re perfect for days when you need a quick, comforting, and satisfying meal.

Growing up, I used to love spending summer evenings with my family gathered around the grill or campfire, and a juicy hot dog with a slightly charred skin was one of my favorites! Nowadays, I don’t always want to go through the trouble of starting up my grill, but I definitely don’t want any boring old boiled hot dogs.

That’s where making hot dogs in the air fryer comes in! They deliver the same great taste as the grill without the hassle of outdoor cooking. Whether you’re making your kids a quick snack or cooking up one for yourself, you won’t be able to get enough of these air fryer hot dogs!

Why I Love This Recipe

Simple: Just throw the hot dogs in the air fryer and push start! Virtually anyone can make this straightforward recipe, but it turns out unbelievably delicious.
Quick: It takes all of 5 minutes to make the entire recipe, including toasting the buns.
Delicious: Using the air fryer results in hot dogs with a slightly crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior. Plus, it crisps up the buns perfectly!
Customizable: Create your perfect hot dog by switching up the sausage flavors, adding your favorite condiments, or using gluten-free buns if you have allergies.

Simple Air Fryer Hot Dogs

I think we can all agree that hot dogs have become an iconic item at summer cookouts, camping trips, sporting events, and backyard get-togethers. But, all of those situations require you to be outside, own a grill, or have a campfire, and that’s just not a possibility year-round for a lot of us!

With the invention of this all-purpose appliance, you can now enjoy the taste and texture of perfectly cooked hot dogs in the air fryer in minutes, no matter what time of year it is! That also means easier cleanup, which is always a win in my books.

Serve air fryer hot dogs with your choice of condiments, like ketchup, mustard, relish, and sauerkraut for a fun, customizable, and nostalgic meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Hot Dogs

Hot dog buns: You can use traditional hot dog buns, or try whole wheat buns for a heartier flavor. If you have gluten sensitivities, opt for your favorite gluten-free brand. For a low-carb option, swap out the bun for a lettuce wrap.
Hot dogs: Since they are the main ingredient, it’s essential to pick high-quality hot dogs. Some good options include Applegate Farms, Hebrew National, Sabrett, Niman Ranch, and Ball Park. Alternatively, try turkey, chicken, or veggie dogs as a substitute.

How to Air Fry Hot Dogs

Step 1: Toast the buns

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F, then place the hot dog buns in a single layer in the basket. Toast them for about 2 minutes, or until they are browned to your liking. Remove them from the air fryer and set them aside while you cook the hot dogs.

Step 2: Cook the hot dogs

Place the hot dogs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for 3 minutes, or until they are crisped to your liking. For an even better texture, make shallow diagonal slits on the hot dogs before air-frying them.

Step 3: Assemble and serve

When the hot dogs are nice and crispy, serve them inside toasted buns with your favorite condiments and sides!

What To Serve With Air Fryer Hot Dogs

You can dress air fryer hot dogs with classic condiments like ketchup, mustard, and relish. To get a little more creative, try adding toppings like chili, shredded cheese, chopped onions, sauerkraut, or even guacamole.

Make your hot dogs a full meal deal by serving them alongside your favorite side dishes like coleslaw, pasta salad, potato salad, corn on the cob, or baked beans.

Recipe Variations

Chili cheese dogs: Top with chili and shredded cheese for a loaded hot dog.
New York style: Add tangy sauerkraut and spicy brown mustard.
Tex-Mex: Create a Tex-Mex flavor with guacamole, salsa, and pickled jalapeños.
BBQ: Drizzle on your favorite barbecue sauce and sprinkle crispy onions on top.
Buffalo: Serve your hot dog with Buffalo sauce and crumbled blue cheese.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Preheat: Preheat the air fryer for 3-5 minutes for the most even cooking.
Avoid overcrowding: Make sure the hot dogs have room in the basket and aren’t overcrowded. You can cook the hot dogs in batches if you need to.
Toast the buns: Remember to toast the buns for extra flavor and texture.
Cooking time: If you’re using frozen or pre-cooked hot dogs, just be mindful of the cooking times as you may need to adjust them.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you have leftover air fryer hot dogs, follow these storage and reheating tips:

Fridge: Store the cooled hot dogs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: Once completely cooled, wrap each hot dog in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat the hot dogs in the air fryer at 350 degrees F for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re heated through. Toast the buns separately.

Additional Recipes

If you enjoy air fryer hot dogs as much as I do, here are a few more quick and hassle-free recipes to try in this handy kitchen gadget:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook frozen hot dogs in the air fryer?

Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time accordingly.

Can I cook the hot dogs and buns at the same time?

It’s best to cook the hot dogs and buns separately to ensure optimal cooking of the hot dogs and a crispy toast of the buns.

How do I clean my air fryer after cooking hot dogs?

To clean your air fryer, let it cool, then remove the basket and wipe it clean it a damp cloth or sponge. You can also wipe it with a slice of lemon to remove any odors.

Air Fryer Hot Dogs

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Dinner Recipes, Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer recipe, easy recipes, hot dogs, quick recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Total Time 10

Servings people

Calories 230kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

4 hot dog buns
4 hot dogs
Your favorite condiments!

Instructions

Preheat an air fryer to 400 degrees F.
Place buns in a single layer in the air fryer basket; cook in the preheated air fryer until toasted, about 2 minutes. Remove buns to a plate.
Place hot dogs in a single layer in the air fryer basket; cook for 3 minutes.
Serve hot dogs in toasted buns with desired condiments.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Hot Dogs appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Frozen Sweet Potato Fries

Anna Kate — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Air fryer frozen sweet potato fries are a quick, simple, and versatile recipe that pairs well with mains like burgers, sandwiches, paninis, and more. In less than 15 minutes, you’ll be biting into golden, crispy, and perfectly-seasoned fries. Serve them as-is or dunked into your favorite sauce.

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick & easy: 15 minutes and one bag of frozen sweet potato fries are all you need for a crowd-pleasing snack or side dish.
Kid-approved: Both adults and kids love air fryer frozen sweet potato fries. This is the ideal finger food!
Healthier: Since there’s no deep-frying involved, this recipe is healthier than traditional deep-frying methods. The good news is that your fries will turn out just as crispy.
Versatile: Eat them as a snack, or add them to main dishes. You’ll even have your oven freed up for making dinner or dessert.

Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Compared to deep frying or baking in the oven, frozen sweet potato fries in the air fryer come out on top every time! There is much less oil required, but they turn out incredibly crispy and crunchy! And with how fast they cook, what’s not to love?

Just add them straight into the air fryer basket while frozen, then sprinkle them with your favorite seasonings. Serve your air fryer frozen sweet potato fries on their own or with dips like chipotle aioli, ketchup, or jalapeño ranch.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Frozen Sweet Potato Fries

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Sweet potato fries: To make life easier, I use frozen sweet potatoes. If you have whole sweet potatoes, make sure to cut them thinly and evenly for faster cooking time.
Salt: I like to use seasoning salt, but regular salt and pepper work as well! You can even make your own seasoning mix with herbs and spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
Olive oil spray: I prefer olive oil spray since it has such a great flavor, but feel free to use any neutral vegetable oil with a high smoke point.

How To Air Fry Frozen Sweet Potato Fries

Step 1: Season The Sweet Potatoes

Place the frozen sweet potato fries in the basket of your air fryer. Season them with salt, and coat them lightly with olive oil spray.

Optionally, you can preheat your air fryer for a couple of minutes while you grab the ingredients.

Step 2: Air Fry The Sweet Potatoes

Set your air fryer to 400 degrees F, and cook the sweet potatoes for 10 minutes. Remove the basket and shake the fries, then cook them for an additional 5-10 minutes until crispy. If you prefer them to be extra crispy, leave them in for a few more minutes.

What To Serve With Sweet Potato Fries

Air fryer frozen sweet potato fries are absolutely delicious on their own, but serving them with dipping sauces takes the flavors to new heights. Try homemade Alabama white BBQ sauce, chipotle aioli, jalapeño ranch, or good old-fashioned ketchup!

Just like regular fries, they go well with burgers, chicken nuggets, ham and cheese sliders, pan-seared pork chops, and pretty much any other protein you can think of.

Recipe Variations

Fresh potatoes: If you don’t have access to frozen sweet potato fries, don’t worry! Just cut a peeled sweet potato into thin strips, toss them with oil and seasonings, then air fry them at 380 degrees F for 12-15 minutes.
Spicy: Turn the heat up on your sweet potato fries with spices like cayenne, red pepper flakes, Cajun seasoning, or Creole seasoning.
Garlic parmesan: Season your sweet potato fries with garlic powder and parmesan sprinkles for a mouthwatering combination.
Herbs: Once they are finished air frying, toss the fries with freshly minced parsley, thyme, or cilantro for a pop of color and herbaceous flavor.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Preheating helps: Although it’s not necessary, preheating really helps reduce cooking times and ensures your sweet potato fries turn out extra crispy.
Don’t overcrowd: It may be tempting to dump the whole bag of fries into the air fryer, but it’s best not to overcrowd them. Try to keep the fries in a single layer so the hot air has enough room to circulate around them.
Flip halfway: Don’t forget to flip them halfway in order to crisp up every side of the sweet potato fries.

What To Do With Leftovers

Sweet potato fries are just as good the next day, so don’t be afraid to make a double batch and follow these storage tips:

Fridge: Once cooled, transfer the fries to an airtight container and store them for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezer: You can refreeze sweet potato fries in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months, but it’s best to anticipate how much you’ll need so there’s no change in texture the next time you cook them.
Reheat: Reheat your sweet potato fries in the air fryer for 5-6 minutes at 375 degrees F, flipping halfway through. You can also heat them in the microwave in 30-second intervals, but they won’t be as crispy.

Additional Recipes

If you appreciated how easy this recipe for making frozen sweet potato fries in the air fryer was, check out some more of my easiest air fryer snacks:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best oil for air fryer frozen sweet potato fries?

You can use any oil you prefer, but it’s best to choose one with a higher smoke point than you’re cooking temperature. I prefer the ease of cooking spray, but tossing them in oil works as well.

Does this recipe work with homemade sweet potato fries?

Yes, homemade sweet potato fries work in the air fryer. Cook them at 380 degrees F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.

How do I get my sweet potato fries to be extra crispy?

To make your sweet potato fries extra crispy, you can air fry them for longer. Additionally, make sure to serve them right away while they are still hot.

Crispy Air Fryer Frozen Sweet Potato Fries

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, french fries, sweet potatoes

Cook Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings servings

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

16 ounces frozen sweet potato fries
salt I like to use seasoning salt
cooking spray

Instructions

Place the frozen fries in the basket of your air fryer. Sprinkle with salt and spray lightly with olive oil spray.
Cook at 400 °F degrees for 10 minutes. Shake the fries and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until crispy.

The post Air Fryer Frozen Sweet Potato Fries appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Hot Pockets

Anna Kate — Sat, 22 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Air fryer Hot Pockets are going to be your new favorite recipe! In less than 10 minutes, you’ll be sitting down to golden brown, crispy, and melty pizza rolls. All you have to do is open the box and pop them in your air fryer, making them ideal for quick lunches, dinners, and snacks.

Why I Love This Recipe

Perfect texture: Compared to the oven or microwave, Hot Pockets in the air fryer turn out crispy, crunchy, and perfectly cooked. Preheating isn’t even a requirement!
Quick: All you need is 10 minutes and lunch or dinner will be on the table.
Reheating: If you don’t finish everything, leftovers can also be reheated in the air fryer.

I don’t know about y’all, but I’ve eaten a lot of Hot Pockets in my day. This tasty snack is an American classic, and it’s even better coming out of the air fryer! Plus, it takes less than half the time as an oven.

If there is one thing that could make Hot Pockets gourmet, it’s the cooking method. Seriously, the air fryer bakes up the crust just right and melts the cheese perfectly. Say goodbye to soggy, rubbery Hot Pockets from the microwave!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Hot Pockets

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Hot Pockets: I personally don’t think you can go wrong with the Hot Pocket classic four-cheese pizza flavor, but go for whichever flavor or variety you have on hand! There is pepperoni, buffalo, ham and cheddar, and even breakfast pockets. You’ll typically find them in the frozen section of any large grocery store.
Cooking spray: A neutral vegetable oil-based cooking spray works best. You can also brush the air fryer basket with vegetable oil if you don’t have an aerosol can.

How to Make Hot Pockets In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Preheat The Air Fryer

First, preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F. Preheating the air fryer isn’t technically necessary, but I prefer to do it for short recipes like this one.

Step 2: Add The Hot Pockets

Spray the bottom of the air fryer basket to prevent sticking, then place the frozen Hot Pockets at the bottom of the air fryer basket. Leave some space between the two Hot Pockets.

Step 3: Air Fry The Hot Pockets

Cook the Hot Pockets for 10 minutes, or until the outsides are golden brown and crispy. Serve them immediately whole hot as-is or with your favorite dipping sauce.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Hot Pockets

Hot Pockets are delicious on their own, but sometimes you just need some dip in your life! Try pairing them with sauces like Alabama white BBQ, ranch, honey mustard, marinara, or nacho cheese sauce.

Recipe Variations

Seasonings: Brush your air fryer Hot Pockets with melted butter followed by a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like parsley and oregano, or crushed chili flakes.
Oven-baked: If you don’t have an air fryer, use an oven or toaster oven! Preheat it to 350 degrees F, then bake the Hot Pockets for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and crispy.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Single layer: Leave room between each Hot Pocket, and keep them in a single layer for optimal air circulation in the air fryer.
Cook from frozen: Don’t worry about thawing Hot Pockets before adding them to the air fryer. They will thaw as they cook!
Ditch the oil: You don’t need much oil (if any) for this recipe. The non-stick coating on the air fryer will do just fine.
Adjust the cooking time: If you haven’t cooked Hot Pockets in an air fryer before, you may need to adjust the cooking time based on your specific make and model.

What To Do With Leftovers

Fridge: Once the Hot Pockets are cooled, transfer them to a container and store them in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Freezer: You technically can refreeze cooked Hot Pockets if the only other option is to throw them away. However, I find the texture isn’t quite the same once they thaw and cook again.
Reheat: Reheat cold Hot Pockets in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350 degrees F, or until they are warmed all the way through.

Additional Recipes

If you enjoy air fryer Hot Pockets as much as I do, check these other simple recipes out:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you cook Hot Pockets in an air fryer?

Air fryer Hot Pockets take about 10 minutes at 375 degrees F if cooked from frozen. However, time and temperature may vary depending on the make and model of your air fryer. It’s best to switch up the settings until you find the perfect texture.

Do I have to put foil or parchment paper under the Hot Pockets?

No, you don’t have to put foil or parchment paper under the Hot Pockets. In fact, the foil or paper will likely inhibit air circulation, leading to prolonged or uneven cooking.

Do I have to preheat my air fryer to cook Hot Pockets?

You don’t have to preheat your air fryer, but I find it reduces the overall cooking time and helps achieve optimal crispiness.

10-Minute Air Fryer Hot Pockets

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, hot pocket

Cook Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings serving

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

2 frozen hot pockets
cooking spray

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 375℉.
Spray the bottom of the air fryer basket.
Place the frozen hot pockets at the bottom of the air fryer basket. Leave space between the two hot pockets.
Cook for 10 minutes or until the hot pocket is golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve immediately alone or with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1

The post Air Fryer Hot Pockets appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Frozen Potato Skins in the Air Fryer

Anna Kate — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Try frozen potato skins in the air fryer for a quick, easy, and ultra-satisfying snack! If you have about 5 minutes to spare, you’ll have food on the table in less time than it takes to do the dishes. Serve your potato skins as an appetizer for guests, as part of a party tray, or on game days!

If you’ve ever found yourself frantically needing a last-minute snack or appetizer, let me introduce you to frozen potato skins in the air fryer! This kitchen appliance has made my life such a breeze, and I know it will do the same for you too.

Whenever I need a crowd-pleasing recipe that everyone will love, I make these air fryer potato skins. All you have to do is open the box, pop them into the air fryer, and wait for them to crisp up. I mean, how easy is that?!

Why I Love This Recipe

Crispy: Air fryer potato skins turn out extra crispy on the outside, but they remain tender and fluffy on the inside. It’s an irresistible combination of textures!
Healthy: Using an air fryer to make potato skins is healthier than other cooking methods. You don’t need as much oil, but they still deliver big on taste.
Convenient: This no-fuss recipe is ready to eat in little more than 5 minutes and requires minimal cleanup. Make it whenever you’re short on time!

What Are Potato Skins?

Potato skins are a popular snack or appetizer made from the skins of baked potatoes. Typically, the baked potatoes are cooked until tender, then the flesh is scooped out while leaving the skins behind.

Popular fillings include cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chives. They are then baked or broiled until the cheese melts and the skins turn extra crispy.

You can make your own potato skins at home, or use premade potato skins for a more convenient option. They are the perfect dish to serve at parties, game days, potlucks, and barbecues.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Potato Skins

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Potato skins: Use your favorite brand and flavor. You can use TGI Friday’s potato skins, Walmart potato skins, Trader Joe’s potato skins, or even homemade potato skins.

How to Make Frozen Potato Skins In The Air Fryer

Prepare The Skins

Remove the potato skins from the freezer. Decide how many you want to make and remove them from the package. It’s best to keep the potato skins frozen until you are ready to cook.

Air Fry The Potato Skins

Place the skins into the air fryer basket or air fryer tray. Air fry the potato skins at 370F for 5-6 minutes, or until they are crisped to your liking. Transfer them to a serving platter before adding garnishes.

How to Air Fry Homemade Potato Skins

If you’d prefer to make your own potato skins from scratch, first air fry raw potatoes at 400F for 45-60 minutes or bake the potatoes in the oven. You should be able to easily poke them with a fork or knife.

Let the potatoes cool until you can handle them. Cut them in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon, leaving about ¼-inch of flesh behind. Save the rest of the flesh for another recipe.

Season the potato skins with salt, pepper, and any other spices you want. Add shredded cheese, bacon bits, or other fillings you enjoy.

Air fry homemade potato skins at 370F for 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the skins are crisped to your liking.

Toppings For Potato Skins

One of my favorite parts about potato skins is the toppings! Make yours unique by adding shredded cheddar cheese, nacho cheese sauce, more bacon bits, sour cream, chives, green onions, cilantro, parsley, meat crumbles, beans, or corn. Just use your imagination!

What To Serve With Frozen Air Fryer Potato Skins

Air fryer frozen potato skins are the perfect finger food for holiday parties, get-togethers, and game nights. They also happen to make a delicious addition to any appetizer tray.

Try serving them alongside recipes like Bisquick sausage balls, air fryer pizza rolls, pigs in a blanket, and air fryer Buffalo wings for the ultimate spread!

Tips For The Best Recipe

Don’t thaw: Add the frozen potato skins to the air fryer without thawing them for the best results.
Preheat: For more accurate and consistent cooking times, preheat the air fryer for a couple of minutes before adding the potato skins in.
Don’t flip: Unlike most air fryer recipes that need to be flipped halfway through, potato skins do not need to be touched. You risk losing the fillings this way.
Watch closely: Since every air fryer is different and the thickness of potato skins vary, use my cooking times as a guideline only.

What To Do With Leftovers

Potato skins are best eaten straight out of the air fryer so they stay nice and crispy. But if you have leftovers, here’s what to do:

Fridge: You can store them in a sealed container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just make sure they have fully cooled first.
Reheat: To reheat your potato skins, pop them back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, you can warm the potato skins up in the microwave in 15-20 second bursts until they reach your desired temperature.

Additional Recipes

If you love using the air fryer, here are some of my most popular air fryer recipes right now:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you cook frozen potato skins in the air fryer?

Cook your frozen potato skins in a preheated air fryer for 5-6 minutes at 370 degrees F. The cooking time may vary depending on the make and model of your particular air fryer.

Why aren’t my potato skins crispy?

If your potato skins aren’t crispy, just keep them in the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes. If they still won’t crisp up, turn the heat up by 20 degrees F.

Can I double or triple this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe. However, you’ll likely have to do it in multiple batches. If the air fryer is crowded, the air won’t circulate well enough and you may not achieve crispy enough potato skins.

Easy Frozen Potato Skins in the Air Fryer

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, appetizer, snacks

Cook Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings servings

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

1 package frozen potato skins

Instructions

Remove the potato skins from the freezer. Add desired number to the air fryer basket.
Place them into the air fryer basket air fry at 370F for 5-6 minutes.
Remove the skins from the air fryer, plate and enjoy.

The post Frozen Potato Skins in the Air Fryer appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

Anna Kate — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 17:27:03 +0000

Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs make an incredibly healthy, delicious, and satisfying meal. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spicy and savory seasonings, then cooked until crispy on the outside yet tender on the inside. The best part? Quick and easy clean up. It doesn’t get much better than that!

As someone who grew up in the South, I always enjoy fried chicken at family gatherings. Still, I remember how messy and time-consuming traditional deep-frying is!

This recipe for boneless skinless chicken thighs in the air fryer has all the same comforting flavors, but it’s made in a fraction of the time and with minimal effort. Although I always have a place in my heart for fried chicken, this is now a healthier and more convenient option I can’t get enough of!

Why I Love This Recipe

Healthy: Using an air fryer reduces the need for excessive oil and limits the overall calories of the dish.
Quick: Air frying ensures each chicken thigh cooks quickly, efficiently, and evenly.
Tender: These air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs turn out crispy on the outside while retaining a juicy and moist interior.

The Best Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are a healthier take on classic fried chicken. While fried chicken is well-known worldwide, there is no doubt it’s a staple in Southern home cooking.

In this recipe, the chicken is generously coated with a blend of garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper, filling each bite with smoky, savory, and spicy flavors.

The benefit of the air fryer is especially apparent with its ability to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and moist. Serve this recipe as-is or alongside dishes like mac and cheese, coleslaw, potato salad, and cornbread.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Chicken thighs: I find boneless skinless chicken thighs work the best in the air fryer. For added flavor, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but the cooking time will vary.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory flavor with slightly toasted undertones. Don’t have any garlic on hand? Substitute it with an equal amount of onion powder.
Smoked paprika: Imparts a mildly spicy, smoky, and sweet taste. You can substitute it with regular paprika for a milder flavor or sweet paprika.
Oregano: Adds an earthy, herbal, slightly bitter note. If you don’t have oregano, replace it with dried thyme, basil, or Italian seasoning.
Salt & pepper: Salt enhances the flavors of the other seasonings, while black pepper provides a mild kick. Adjust both to suit your taste.

How To Make Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare The Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel, which not only helps the seasoning blend adhere but also results in crispier thighs. Once they are nice and dry, transfer them to a bowl.

Step 2: Season The Chicken

Combine all the seasonings in a bowl, then transfer them into the bowl with the chicken thighs. Using your hands, coat the chicken with the spices. Make sure to work the seasoning blend into the chicken so it infuses better.

Step 3: Air Fry The Chicken

While not completely necessary, I recommend preheating your air fryer to 380F. It should only take about 3-5 minutes, and you can do this while preparing the chicken.

Place the chicken smooth side down into the air fryer basket. Spray each chicken thigh with olive oil spray or cooking spray, then air fry them for 12 minutes.

Step 4: Flip And Finish Cooking

Once the air fryer beeps, use kitchen tongs to flip the chicken over, and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes on the second side, or until the chicken thighs are cooked through. Just note that every air fryer is different, so cooking times may vary slightly.

What To Serve With Chicken Thighs

Serve your chicken thighs by themselves or with a side of creamy coleslaw, a slice of skillet cornbread, or a Caprese salad. For a heartier, more filling meal, try adding a side of mashed potatoes, oven-baked sweet potatoes, or smashed red potatoes.

Recipe Variations

BBQ chicken: Brush the thighs with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a bold flavor.
Lemon herb: Add lemon zest along with dried rosemary, thyme, and basil to the blend for a zesty finish.
Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
Teriyaki: Marinate the chicken before frying it, then baste it towards the end of cooking.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Dry the chicken: Pat your chicken thighs until completely dry to ensure even cooking and crispiness. You can use a paper towel for easier cleanup.
Adjust the seasonings: Depending on your taste preferences, add more or fewer spices to suit your needs.
Use a thermometer: The best way to tell if your chicken is done is by using an instant-read thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165F.
Preheat: Preheat the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to ensure an even cooking of the chicken.
Increase the cooking time: If you’re using bone-in chicken thighs, you’ll need to increase the cooking time accordingly.
Don’t overcrowd: Overcrowding the air fryer basket leads to uneven cooking. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
Flip halfway: For the perfect brown and crisp, flip the chicken around the halfway point.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you have leftover chicken thighs, follow these simple storage and reheating tips:

Fridge: Once fully cooled, transfer the leftover chicken to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: Wrap the chicken individually in aluminum foil, then keep it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months if stored this way.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350F for 4-5 minutes, or until they are warmed to your liking. Make sure to flip the thighs halfway for even heating.

Additional Recipes

If you enjoyed these air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs, try a few more of my best protein-packed recipes like these:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but bone-in chicken thighs take longer to cook. Just remember to account for the increased time.

Do I need to use oil or nonstick spray?

Oil or nonstick spray helps prevent the thighs from sticking to the air fryer basket and promotes crispiness. I suggest using at least a little bit as it will make a difference in overall flavor.

Can I prepare this recipe in a conventional oven?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a conventional oven at 400F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked. Just note that the overall texture will be different compared to chicken cooked in the air fryer.

Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, Chicken, chicken thighs

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings

Author Anna Kate

Ingredients

5-6 boneless skinless chicken thighs patted dry
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Pat chicken thighs dry with a paper towel, then transfer to a bowl.
Combine all the seasonings together in a bowl, then pour them into the bowl with the chicken and use your hands to coat the chicken with the spices.
Preheat your air fryer to 380° (mine took 3 minutes to preheat). Then, place chicken smooth side down into the air fryer, spray with nonstick spray/olive oil spray, and cook at 380° for 12 minutes. NOTE: every air fryer is different, so cook times may vary.
Once the air fryer beeps, use kitchen tongs to flip the chicken over, and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes on the second side, or until chicken is cooked through.

The post Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Frozen Waffles

Anna Kate — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Don’t have time for homemade waffles? Air fryer frozen waffles are a quick, easy, and no-fuss breakfast that requires minimal effort and almost no cleanup. Enjoy them in the morning, as a snack on the go, or as part of a brunch spread.

Make busy mornings a breeze with this fuss-free, kid-approved breakfast. If you haven’t made air fryer waffles before, put that toaster oven down! You won’t be needing it again.

Just pull the waffles out of the freezer and pop them straight into the air fryer basket. It’s honestly that easy! Say goodbye to soft, soggy, and rubbery waffles.

This recipe results in crispy, golden-brown, and consistently-cooked waffles every time. It’s as though they’re freshly made! Enjoy them plain or with toppings like butter, syrup, and whipped cream.

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick: Breakfast is ready in less than 10 minutes from start to finish! No need to thaw.
Easy: Just pop frozen waffles in the air fryer and press start. It’s so easy, you can do it with your eyes closed!
Crispy: The air fryer makes everything taste better! Turn frozen waffles into a crispy masterpiece with the click of a button.
Customizable: Choose your favorite waffle flavor, add whipped cream, pair them with sliced fruit, or drizzle on chocolate sauce. There are so many ways to make air fryer frozen waffles your own!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Frozen Waffles

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Frozen waffles: My go-to brand is usually Eggo waffles, but there are so many options nowadays. Just choose your favorite variety! You can even use whole wheat waffles for a healthier option.

How To Make Frozen Waffles In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Add the waffles to the basket

Place the frozen waffles in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in an even layer and aren’t touching. If they are overlapping, they will steam and turn out soggy.

Note: No cooking spray or oil is necessary for this recipe, but you’re welcome to use it if you prefer. In this case, opt for neutral vegetable oil.

Step 2: Cook the waffles

Air fry the waffles at 360°F/180°C for 4 minutes. Flip the waffles over and continue to cook them for another 1-3 minutes, or until they reach your preferred doneness. Serve them immediately while hot!

What To Serve With Air Fryer Waffles

You can never go wrong with classic waffle toppings like butter and syrup. If you want, try spicing up your air fryer frozen waffles with decadent garnishes like whipped cream, icing sugar, chocolate sauce, jam, nut butter, fresh fruit, or fruit compote.

For a full brunch spread, pair your waffles with crispy baked bacon, Ambrosia salad, cheesy hash browns, and baked apples.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Preheat the air fryer: While it’s technically not necessary to preheat an air fryer, it helps to more evenly cook food when recipes are shorter (like this one).
Don’t thaw the waffles: Don’t let your frozen waffles thaw, and avoid using fresh waffle batter. In both cases, the waffles will stick and make a mess in your air fryer basket.
Leave space: If you let the waffles overlap too much, they will steam rather than crisp up. Make sure to spread them out and cook them in batches if need be!
Watch them: Cooking times may vary depending on the brand of air fryer or the thickness of the waffle you’re using.

What To Do With Leftovers

Of course, my best suggestion is to just prepare frozen waffles fresh each day since they take so little time. But if you end up with leftover air fryer waffles, follow these simple storage tips:

Fridge: Transfer your waffles to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Freezer: You can refreeze frozen waffles by wrapping them in aluminum foil, transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and freezing them for up to 1 month. Just note, both the taste and texture may vary slightly once cooked again.
Reheating: Reheating your waffles is just as easy as making them the first time around. Add them to the air fryer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until warmed through.

Additional Recipes

If you’re looking for more tasty breakfast ideas, look no further:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make homemade waffles in the air fryer?

While it’s not possible to make waffles from scratch directly in the air fryer, you can absolutely heat up any type of frozen waffle, including homemade ones. You will need to use a silicone mold to cook waffle batter in the air fryer.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer before making frozen waffles?

You don’t need to preheat the air fryer, but it’s best to preheat it for 3-5 minutes before adding the waffles for the most even cooking and consistent results.

Do I have to add oil or spray to my air fryer basket before cooking frozen waffles?

It’s not necessary to add oil to the air fryer basket before cooking frozen waffles. If you’re finding your waffles are sticking, you may want to try greasing the basket with cooking spray or oil beforehand.

How long do you cook frozen waffles in an air fryer?

To cook air fryer frozen waffles, you just have to take them out of the package and add them to an air fryer while still frozen. It should take about 5-7 minutes at 360 degrees F to fully cook frozen waffles. This may vary slightly depending on the make and model of your air fryer.

Easy Air Fryer Frozen Waffles

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword Breakfast, waffles

Cook Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings waffles

Calories 97kcal

Author Anna Kate

Ingredients

2 Frozen Waffles

Instructions

Place the frozen waffles in the air fryer basket in an even layer (make sure they aren’t overlapping).
Air Fry at 360°F for 4 minutes. Flip the waffles over and continue to Air Fry for another 1-3 minutes or until to your preferred doneness.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Frozen Waffles appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites

Anna Kate — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 04:00:00 +0000

Sweet and tender air fryer cinnamon roll bites are ready to eat in just 6 minutes! Made from canned cinnamon rolls, this recipe is simple to make and will quickly become a family favorite for weekend brunches. Just don’t forget the cream cheese frosting for dipping them in!

Whether you prefer cinnamon rolls for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, there’s no denying that making them in the air fryer is by far the quickest and easiest method. Don’t get me wrong, making cinnamon rolls from scratch is something all of us want to do, but sometimes we just don’t have the extra time!

Do yourself a favor and make life easier with this air fryer cinnamon roll bites recipe! You’ll be everyone’s favorite person in the morning when your family wakes up to the sweet, warming smells of cinnamon rolls.

Why I Love This Recipe

Simple: There’s nothing easier than opening a can, cutting the dough, and popping them in the air fryer.
Quick: You’ll have breakfast on the table in less than 15 minutes from start to finish. Use this recipe during busy mornings, or make weekend breakfasts extra special by including these bites in a full spread.
Few ingredients: One can of cinnamon rolls and a 4-ingredient cream cheese frosting is all you need. For how delicious the final result is, there aren’t a lot of moving parts!

Which Cinnamon Rolls Are Best?

The cinnamon roll brand you go for depends entirely on your preferences, budget, and availability. I’ve listed a few brands to help you decide, but any brand should do the trick.

Pillsbury: For a nostalgic feel and flavor, Pillsbury takes the cake (or should I say the cinnamon roll)! They are not too cinnamon-forward, light in texture, and have the best icing in my opinion. Plus, they are the most widely available brand on the market.
Immaculate: A great option if you are trying to be more health-conscious. These rolls are made with whole wheat flour and organic ingredients, so you can feel better about indulging in extra air fryer cinnamon roll bites!
Great Value: If you are on a budget, you can’t go wrong with Great Value! They don’t have quite the same taste as the other options, but the price point is hard to beat.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Cinnamon rolls: For this recipe, I used Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls with Original Icing, which comes with 8 rolls per can. Although, you can use whichever brand you prefer or is available near you.
Granulated sugar: Regular granulated sugar is best, but cane sugar will also work!
Cinnamon: The best flavor comes from Ceylon (true) cinnamon, providing a quintessential cinnamon roll flavor. But, cassia cinnamon can be substituted in a pinch.
Cream cheese: To make the base of the dipping icing. Make sure it is softened before starting to beat the cream cheese and butter together.
Butter: Adds a rich flavor and texture to the dip. Regular or unsalted both work. Again, make sure it is softened!
Powdered sugar: For sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth icing dip consistency. If you don’t have powdered sugar on hand, blend some granulated sugar and a little cornstarch into a fine powder.
Milk: You just need a couple of tablespoons to thin the icing. Use regular 2%, whole milk, or non-dairy milk of your choice.

How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites

Step 1: Prepare The Air Fryer

Cut an 8-inch round of cooking parchment paper, then place it in the bottom of your air fryer basket. This will prevent the rolls from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Divide the Cinnamon Rolls

Separate the cinnamon roll dough into 8 equal pieces. Cut each roll into 4 equal quarters, then place 16 pieces in the bottom of the air fryer basket. Set the icing that comes in the can aside for now.

Step 3: Air Fry The Cinnamon Roll Bites

Set the air fryer to 325 degrees F, and cook the cinnamon roll bites for 3 minutes. Using tongs, turn the bites over, then cook them for another 2 to 3 minutes.

When they appear golden brown, remove the cinnamon roll bites from the air fryer, and repeat the same process with the remaining 16 pieces.

Step 4: Make The Dip

In the meantime, add the cinnamon and granulated sugar to a large resealable food-storage plastic bag. Close the bag and shake the mixture until it is well combined.

In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese and softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed. When the mixture is smooth, beat in the powdered sugar, reserved icing, and enough milk to make a dip consistency.

Step 5: Assemble

Add the warm bites to the bag of cinnamon sugar, then shake to coat the pieces evenly. Serve your cinnamon roll bites warm with a side of dipping icing.

What To Serve With Cinnamon Roll Bites

For a full breakfast or brunch spread, serve your air fryer cinnamon roll bites with recipes like a breakfast casserole, baked apples, sheet pan pancakes, a hashbrown casserole, or crispy baked bacon.

While I highly recommend the cream cheese dipping icing, you can pair your bites with chocolate syrup, caramel sauce, buttercream, or regular icing.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Cut into even sizes: For consistent results, make sure to cut each cinnamon roll bite into equivalent portions.
Shake halfway: Don’t forget to shake or flip the bites halfway so they cook evenly on all sides.
Don’t forget the dip: The dip is arguably the best part. Don’t skip making it!

What To Do With Leftovers

Fridge: Once cooled, transfer the cinnamon roll bites to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The cream cheese frosting will last for up to a week as long as it’s stored in a clean container.
Freezer: You can prepare air fryer cinnamon roll bites ahead of time or freeze leftovers. Just make sure they’re cooled, then store them for 1-2 months in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: If frozen, thaw the cinnamon rolls in the fridge overnight. Heat them in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes at 325 degrees F, or until warmed all the way through.

Additional Recipes

For more sweet treats, take a look at some of my most popular recipes right now:

Frequently Asked Questions

Are air fryer cinnamon roll bites gluten-free?

No, air fryer cinnamon roll bites are not gluten-free. Since this recipe is made with Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls, it contains wheat. However, you can use your favorite brand of premade gluten-free cinnamon roll dough.

Best Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, cinnamon roll, sweets

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 6

Total Time 11

Servings people

Calories 122kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

1 Air Fryer

Ingredients

8 count Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls with Original Icing 8 Count
⅓ cup granulated sugar
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Dipping Icing Ingredients

4 ounces cream cheese softened
1 tablespoon butter softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 teaspoons milk

Instructions

Air Fry the Cinnamon Rolls

Cut an 8-inch round piece of cooking parchment paper. Place in bottom of air fryer basket.
Separate each cinnamon roll (8 rolls). Then, cut each roll into 4 equal pieces. Place all 16 pieces in the bottom of the air fryer basket. Set icing aside.
Preheat the air fryer to 325°F. Cook for 3 minutes, turn each piece over, then cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the air fryer. Repeat in batches as needed.

Make the Cinnamon Sugar

Meanwhile, in a large resealable food-storage plastic bag, mix cinnamon and granulated sugar. Set aside.

Make the Cream Cheese Dipping Icing

In a small bowl, beat cream cheese and softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Next, beat in powdered sugar, reserved icing, and enough milk for desired dipping consistency.
Shake warm cinnamon roll pieces in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Serve these warm with dipping icing.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bites appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Frozen Meatballs

Anna Kate — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 18:15:53 +0000

Air fryer frozen meatballs make for a quick appetizer or an easy addition to weeknight meals like spaghetti with tomato sauce. Just open the package, pop them in the air fryer, and you’ll have food on the table in 12 minutes or less!

If you haven’t already noticed, I’m on a little bit of an air fryer kick lately. I mean, what’s not to love about quick recipes, fast cleanup, and healthy food? It’s the perfect combination!

See all of my air fryer recipes here!

Plus, if you have picky eaters at home, you can bet they’re going to love dunking meatballs in classic dips like barbecue, ketchup, honey mustard, and more. There are countless ways to serve these super easy meatballs!

Why This Recipe Works

Easy: Open a bag of frozen meatballs and pop them straight into your air fryer. Take a load off on busy weeks by making use of this handy kitchen appliance!
Quick: From start to finish, cooking frozen meatballs in the air fryer takes all of 12 minutes. There is no need to fuss over preheating the oven or stovetop, or defrosting the meatballs!
Versatile: Use meatballs as a snack or appetizer with your favorite sauces, or add them to mains for a well-balanced meal.
Healthy: High in protein and other nutrients, meatballs make the perfect addition to a healthy diet.
Kid-friendly: Meatballs are not just enjoyed by adults, they are also 100% kid-approved! They make a great option for after-school snacks, movie nights, or lunches.

Easy Air Fryer Meatballs

Made with just 2 simple ingredients, air fryer frozen meatballs are one of my favorite recipes to make when I’m short on time. I can add them to spaghetti and tomato sauce, or serve them with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal.

That’s not all! Try adding them to meatball subs, rice pilaf, or fried cabbage and egg noodles. Unlike the oven, the air fryer results in meatballs that are soft on the inside yet perfectly crispy on the outside. My family always goes a little crazy when they smell me cooking them!

In case you’re wondering, I use a Ninja Foodi Air Fryer for all of my air fryer needs. It’s served me well, from pizza rolls and French fries to “grilled” chicken breast and chicken nuggets. I can always trust my air fryer to keep me sane during busy weeks!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Frozen Meatballs

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Frozen Meatballs: Use your favorite brand and variety of frozen meatballs in the air fryer. You can opt for any flavor you like!
Olive oil: Use olive oil cooking spray to evenly coat the meatballs and the air fryer basket. Alternatively, you can use canola oil or another neutral cooking spray.
Sauce: To toss or dip the meatballs in once they are done cooking. My go-to options are barbecue or tomato sauce, but you can use whichever sauce you prefer.

How to Make Air Fryer Frozen Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare The Meatballs

Place the frozen meatballs in the basket insert of your air fryer, spreading them out into a single even layer. You can cook the meatballs in batches if need be. Coat the meatballs evenly with cooking spray.

Step 2: Air Fry The Meatballs

Air fry the meatballs at 380°F for 8-12 minutes, or until heated all the way through. The cooking time will vary slightly depending on the size of your meatballs.

Remember to gently shake and turn them at the halfway point. This will also give you a good idea of how fast they are cooking.

Step 3: Toss Them In Sauce

If desired, heat your favorite sauce and toss it with the meatballs before serving.

Alternatively, serve your meatballs with a side of bbq sauce or marinara sauce, on top of spaghetti, as Swedish meatballs, or in any recipe that calls for meatballs!

What To Serve With Meatballs

Air fryer meatballs make a quick and easy addition to recipes like spaghetti and meatballs, meatball subs, pizza, meatball wraps, and French onion soup meatballs.

You can serve air fryer meatballs for a snack or appetizer with horseradish sauce, garlic butter, or Alabama white BBQ sauce. Alternatively, toss the meatballs in sweet and sour sauce, honey garlic sauce, or teriyaki sauce.

Recipe Variations

Flavored: There are many options when it comes to frozen meatball flavors. Try Italian, Asian, Indian, etc. Use the flavor that will complement your meal the best.
Different protein: If beef isn’t your thing, try chicken, turkey, or even vegan meatballs.
Sauce: Experiment with different sauces! Try classics like BBQ and ketchup, or branch out with sweet chili, teriyaki, buffalo, or Sriracha hot sauce.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Don’t overcrowd the basket: Overcrowding the basket can cause air to get trapped and not circulate properly. Make sure the meatballs are in a single layer and not stacked on one another. If you need, make them in batches to avoid a soggy texture.
Shake halfway: Around the 4-6 minute mark, give the air fryer basket a gentle shake to evenly cook the meatballs on all sides.
Use spray oil: Adding a little bit of cooking spray will help prevent the meatballs from sticking to the air fryer, resulting in an even crispier texture.
Avoid overcooking: No one likes dry meatballs, so watch for the outside to be lightly browned. If you want to be exact, use an instant-read thermometer and make sure the internal temperature reads 160 degrees F.

What To Do With Leftovers

The great thing about air fryer frozen meatballs is that they store extremely well. Here’s what to do so they stay fresh for longer:

Fridge: Keep the meatballs in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
Freezer: Once the meatballs are fully cooled, you can freeze them again. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll last for up to 1 month.
Reheat: To reheat your meatballs in the air fryer, set it to 325 degrees F and cook them for 3-4 minutes, or until warmed all the way through.

Additional Recipes

If you love easy-to-make dishes as much as I do, try some more of my most popular air fryer recipes like these:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I thaw frozen meatballs before air frying?

You do not have to thaw meatballs before air frying them. It’s actually not recommended as cooking them from frozen will yield the crispiest meatballs.

How long does it take to cook frozen meatballs in the air fryer?

To cook frozen meatballs in the air fryer, add them to the basket in a single layer and cook them at 380 degrees F for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your specific meatballs.

Crispy Air Fryer Frozen Meatballs

Calories 1193kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

1 pound Meatballs frozen
cooking spray
Sauce for dipping (optional)

Instructions

Place the frozen meatballs in the air fryer basket and spread out into a single even layer (cook in batches if needed). Coat the meatballs evenly with oil spray.
Air Fry at 380°F for 8-12 minutes (depending on size) or until heated all the way through, gently shaking and turning the meatballs halfway through cooking.
If desired, heat your favorite sauce & toss with the meatballs before serving.
Alternatively, serve with bbq sauce, marinara sauce, on top of spaghetti, or in any recipe that requires meatballs.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Frozen Meatballs appeared first on Southern Cravings.

How to Cook Turkey Bacon

Anna Kate — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 17:49:25 +0000

Learning how to cook turkey bacon couldn’t be easier! This simple guide will show you how to create a perfectly crispy texture every time. Whether you’re looking to use the air fryer or the oven, this post is for you!

We’re all told there are health benefits of switching from pork bacon to turkey bacon, but turkey bacon always seems to turn out bland and floppy. Well, that problem ends today!

I’ll show you how to achieve crispy and flavorful bacon in no time using the oven or air fryer. Spoiler alert — it’s much easier than you think!

Why I Love This Recipe

Consistent: Once you try this recipe, you’ll know how to cook turkey bacon with your eyes closed! Find the optimal crisp for you, then put things on repeat!
Easy: You don’t have to sit beside a hot pan and watch your bacon like a hawk. Using the oven or the air fryer means a set-it-and-forget-it approach.
Less mess: No more bacon grease splatters on you or your kitchen! Both of these methods require very little effort in the cleanup department.

What Is Turkey Bacon?

Unlike pork bacon, which comes from the belly of a pig, turkey bacon is made from a mixture of dark and light turkey meat. It is seasoned to taste like bacon, then pressed into strips.

Since it’s a leaner cut of meat than pork bacon, the cooking technique is important in yielding a flavorful and crispy texture that will make you think twice before reaching for pork again. Don’t worry though, I’ve got you covered!

Is Turkey Bacon Healthier Than Pork Bacon?

Turkey bacon and pork bacon can both be part of a healthy and well-balanced diet. But, if you’re a die-hard bacon lover, switching a few mornings to turkey bacon may have some positive impacts on your waistline!

Turkey bacon contains fewer calories, fewer “bad” fats, and less cholesterol, making it a slightly better option for anyone with an increased risk of heart disease or diabetes. Regardless of whether it’s pork or turkey, it’s best to consume bacon in moderation!

What You’ll Need To Cook Turkey Bacon

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Turkey bacon: If you are trying to be more mindful of your cholesterol intake, turkey bacon is the ideal choice! I usually opt for nitrate-free, uncured turkey bacon since I like that it contains natural ingredients as opposed to chemical preservatives. Go for brands like Trader Joe’s, Applegate Naturals, and Wellshire for the best options.
Air fryer or oven: I’ve laid out options for how to cook turkey bacon in both an air fryer and an oven. I personally love how crispy my air fryer gets the slices, but you can also achieve similar results in the oven.

How to Cook Turkey Bacon In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Prep The Bacon

First, you will need to add the turkey bacon slices to your air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure the strips are not overlapping for optimal crispiness! If they are too long, cut the pieces in half.

Step 2: Air Fry The Bacon

Air fry the turkey bacon at 390 degrees F for 5 minutes. Flip the slices over, then cook them for another 3-5 minutes, depending on how crispy you prefer your bacon.

Step 3: Finish Cooking

Remove the turkey bacon from the air fryer, and serve it while hot and crispy! If you have more turkey bacon, continue cooking it the same way until all the remaining slices are gone.

How to Cook Turkey Bacon In The Oven

Step 1: Preheat The Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F, and place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. Optionally, you can line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Bake The Bacon

Place the strips of turkey bacon on the wire rack, being careful not to overlap them. Bake the turkey bacon for 10 minutes, then flip the strips and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until crispy.

Note: The exact amount of time will vary based on the thickness of your bacon, your oven, and how crispy you prefer your bacon. I recommend starting to check on them after the 13 to 14-minute mark.

Step 3: Drain The Bacon

Remove the turkey bacon from the oven, and place them on paper towels to drain any excess grease. Serve the strips while warm!

What To Serve With Turkey Bacon

For a full breakfast spread, serve your turkey bacon with recipes like breakfast casserole with sausage, sheet pan pancakes, hashbrown casserole, or pressure cooker hard-boiled eggs.

Alternatively, use it as a garnish for soups and salads, or as an addition to sandwiches like BLTs. The options are virtually endless!

Recipe Variations

Use a toaster oven: If space is an issue in your kitchen (or you don’t own an oven), use a toaster oven! Follow the same principles and guidelines for using a regular oven.
Add seasonings: For an extra kick, add a crack of black pepper before baking or air-frying your turkey bacon!

Tips For The Best Recipe

Pat it dry: If your turkey bacon appears a little wet when you remove it from the package, make sure to thoroughly pat it dry for optimal crisp-ability.
Use a wire rack: Bake the turkey bacon on a wire rack for the best airflow all around the strips, which helps them crisp up beautifully. For easier cleanup, place a sheet of parchment paper or foil underneath the wire rack!
Flip the bacon: Don’t forget to flip the bacon at the halfway point, which will ensure an even crisp on both sides.
Keep a close eye: All oven temperatures vary slightly. Once you flip your turkey bacon, keep a closer eye on how quickly it’s browning to prevent it from burning.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you end up with leftover turkey bacon, store the strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.

The easiest way to reheat the slices is in the air fryer. Set it to 300 degrees F, and cook the bacon in a single layer for 3-4 minutes, or until hot again. You can also heat the strips up in a microwave in 30-second bursts, or you can use a toaster oven set to 350 degrees F for 5-7 minutes.

Additional Recipes

If you enjoyed learning how to cook turkey bacon, be sure to check out a few more of my best how-to recipes:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I cook turkey bacon?

Depending on the method of cooking, cooking turkey bacon takes anywhere from 10-20 minutes.

What is the fastest way to cook turkey bacon?

The fastest way to cook turkey bacon is by using an air fryer. It will take about 8-10 minutes to fully cook, depending on the thickness and how crispy you want it.

Can you overcook turkey bacon?

Yes, one of the most important tips is to not overcook turkey bacon. If it’s overcooked, it will turn out dry and leathery.

How to Cook Turkey Bacon

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer recipe, Bacon, easy recipes

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Calories 1513kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

1 Air Fryer
1 Baking Sheet with rack

Ingredients

1 package turkey bacon

Instructions

Air Fryer Method

Add turkey bacon slices to air fryer basket in a single layer. If they are too long, cut the pieces in half.
Cook at 390 °F degrees for 5 minutes. Flip the slices over. Cook for another 3-5 minutes depending on how crisp you prefer your bacon.
Remove turkey bacon from air fryer and serve warm.
Cook remaining bacon slices.

Oven Method

Preheat oven to 400 °F and place baking rack on top of baking sheet.
Place strips of bacon on baking rack, careful not to overlap. Bake 10 minutes, then flip bacon strips and bake another 10 minutes.
Remove from oven and place on paper towels to drain any remaining grease.

Nutrition

The post How to Cook Turkey Bacon appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

Anna Kate — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 18:39:55 +0000

Learn how to make air fryer frozen broccoli with this quick and easy guide! In less than 10 minutes, open up the drawer to perfectly crispy and tender broccoli. It makes a great side dish, healthy snack, or lunch during busy weeks.

Cooking vegetables in the air fryer is one of my favorite ways to use this incredible kitchen appliance. In fact, cooking food from frozen is actually one of the best ways to use an air fryer.

This is because it thaws the food as it preheats, and it always results in vegetables that are tender and crispy. The best part? You don’t even have to turn your oven on!

Why I Love This Recipe

Healthy: Frozen broccoli is full of vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, fiber, iron, and potassium. Plus, air frying means you don’t have to use as much oil.
Easy: This no-fuss dinner is perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have the energy to make an extravagant meal. Just add broccoli to the air fryer and press start!
Quick: Cooking in the air fryer is much quicker compared to the oven or steamer basket. You don’t even have to wait for the air fryer to preheat!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Frozen broccoli: For convenience, just use a package of store-bought frozen broccoli. If you have extra fresh broccoli heads on hand, cut them into florets and freeze them for air frying at a later date!
Olive oil: To prevent the broccoli from sticking to the air fryer basket. I prefer olive oil, but avocado oil, canola oil, or any other neutral vegetable oil will work.
Seasonings: I season the broccoli with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This combination is zesty, savory, and hearty! Feel free to experiment with increased or decreased measurements to suit your preferences.

How To Cook Frozen Broccoli In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Toss the broccoli

In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and olive oil. Make sure they are coated evenly!

Step 2: Air fry the frozen broccoli

Once it is coated in seasonings, place the broccoli in the air fryer. Air fry it at 370°F for 8-10 minutes, or until your desired tenderness and crispiness are reached.

Step 3: Toss the broccoli

At the halfway point, remove the basket and toss the broccoli to promote even cooking. Serve the broccoli while hot!

What To Serve With Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

You can serve air fryer frozen broccoli as-is or with toppings like Parmesan cheese, cheese sauce, or chili flakes. Enjoy it as a side dish with prime rib, oven-roasted pork tenderloin, air fryer chicken breasts, or grilled pork chops.

For a more complete meal, pair it with other sides like air fryer sweet potatoes, crispy air fryer potatoes, mac and cheese, or crispy baked potatoes.

Recipe Variations

Buffalo: Toss the broccoli together with buffalo sauce, melted butter, and salt before adding it to the air fryer.
Lemon herb: Season the broccoli with olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, basil, and pepper.
Cheesy: Coat the broccoli with olive oil and shredded cheddar before air frying it.
Asian-style: Toss it in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and cornstarch.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Don’t overcrowd: For optimal air circulation and crispiness, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. It’s better to cook in batches rather than stack the broccoli on top of one another.
Shake: Shake the basket halfway to flip the broccoli so the florets crisp up on all sides.
High heat: High heat in the air fryer is the best way to cook frozen broccoli. This causes them to crisp up rather than just steam.
Keep an eye on them: If it’s your first time cooking frozen broccoli in the air fryer, check on them early to ensure they don’t burn. Each air fryer varies slightly in terms of heat level and cooking time.
Season before cooking: If you decide to add any seasonings, it’s best to toss the broccoli in them before cooking.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you have leftover air fryer frozen broccoli, follow these simple storage and reheating tips:

Fridge: Let the broccoli completely cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat frozen broccoli in the air fryer at 370 degrees F for 3-4 minutes, making sure to flip them halfway through.

Additional Recipes

If you enjoyed learning how to cook frozen broccoli in the air fryer, take a peek at some more of my favorite air fryer recipes:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does broccoli take in the air fryer?

Once you transfer the broccoli to the air fryer, it will take about 8–10 minutes at 370 degrees F. The broccoli should appear crispy on the outside but tender in the middle. Just remember to flip them halfway through so they brown evenly.

Why does my broccoli burn in the air fryer?

If your broccoli tends to burn in the air fryer, there is a good chance the temperature is too high or you’re cooking it for too long. Try reducing the cooking time by 1-2 minutes or the heat by 25 degrees F.

Is it unhealthy to cook vegetables in an air fryer?

No! Cooking broccoli in the air fryer is just as healthy as cooking it in the oven. You can make this dish even healthier by reducing the amount of oil used and limiting high-calorie sauces or toppings.

Easy Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli

Learn how to make air fryer frozen broccoli with this quick and easy guide! In less than 10 minutes, open up the drawer to perfectly crispy and tender broccoli. It makes a great side dish, healthy snack, or lunch during busy weeks.

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Side Dish Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, air fryer recipe, broccoli, vegetables, vegetarian

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings

Calories 96kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

12 ounces fresh or frozen broccoli florets
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

In a large bowl, toss broccoli with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and olive oil.
Place broccoli into the air fryer basket. Air fry at 370°F for 8-10 minutes, or until desired tenderness is reached. Toss halfway through to promote even cooking.
Serve hot.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Frozen Broccoli appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Bagel Bites

Anna Kate — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 17:08:43 +0000

Crispy, cheesy air fryer bagel bites are a quick and easy snack that takes less than 10 minutes to make. Break open the box, pop them in the air fryer, and by the time your kids reach the table, they’ll already be done cooking!

Whether adult or child, I’ve yet to meet a person who doesn’t love bagel bites. Simple air fryer recipes save me a ton of time in my busy household, and this snack sits right up there as one of the easiest. It’s kid-approved, mom-approved, and perfect for hectic schedules!

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick: There aren’t many other snacks that take less time to make than air fryer bagel bites. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
Easy: All you have to do is open a box and pop them in the air fryer. Very little effort is required to learn how to cook bagel bites in the air fryer.
Healthier: In terms of frozen foods, bagel bites actually contain decent amounts of protein and fiber, meaning more air fryer bagel bites for everyone!

Air fryer bagel bites

I think we can all agree that bagel bites are one of the most convenient, tastiest, and kid-friendly snacks out there. They are perfectly cheesy, chewy, and saucy — what’s not to love?

Air frying bagel bites takes the convenience factor to a new level, plus this handy appliance crisps them up in a flash!

Everyone loves a classic three-cheese bagel bite, but you can easily swap in cheese and pepperoni, cheese, sausage, and pepperoni, or mozzarella cheese flavors. You could even try making your own bagel bites from scratch!

As they say, when life gives you a busy schedule, make air fryer bagel bites.

What is the best way to clean an air fryer?

The biggest gripe I hear about air fryers is that they are difficult to clean. Well, not anymore! Follow these tips to quickly and efficiently clean your air fryer:

Let the air fryer cool for about 30 minutes before cleaning it, or at least until it’s cool enough to handle.
Submerge the air fryer insert in warm, soapy water. Avoid washing your air fryer insert in the dishwasher or leaving it submerged in boiling water for a long period of time.
To reach all the little nooks and crannies of the basket, use a skewer, toothpick, or soft bristle brush.
For the actual air fryer itself, use a damp kitchen cloth, microfiber cloth, non-abrasive sponge, and dish soap or baking soda to remove caked-on food and grease.
Use a lemon to cut the grease and get rid of any lingering odors that may be trapped in your air fryer.
Always avoid metal utensils, steel wool pads, abrasive sponges, or wire brushes with an air fryer. They will cause micro-scratches, ruining the non-stick coating for future uses.

Note: These are general tips, but it’s always best to read your specific air fryer’s instructions for the cleaning recommendations.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Bagel Bites

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Bagel bites: My favorite brand of bagel bites is Ore Ida, but use whichever one is available to you! I just think they have the best texture, flavor, and “crispability.” I went with a three-cheese flavor, but the cooking time is the same for all flavors.

How to Cook Bagel Bites In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare The Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray if needed.

Step 2: Add The Bagel Bites

Decide on the number of bagel bites you’ll need. I used 16, which is about two-thirds of a family-size box. But, adjust this number up or down depending on the size of your air fryer.

The great thing about bagel bites is that there is no need to thaw them! Place the frozen bagel pizza bites directly in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t overlapping for optimal crispiness.

Step 3: Air Fry The Bagel Bites

Air fry the bagel bites at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 4-6 minutes. You should start checking them around minute 4 of cooking since all air fryers cook slightly differently. If they are done to your liking, remove them at this point. If not, continue cooking for another few minutes.

Step 4: Serve

Carefully remove the air fryer bagel bite with a pair of tongs and serve immediately while they are warm, melty, and crispy!

Dips To Serve With Bagel Bites

Now that your bagel bites are hot and crispy, try dipping them in a sauce like Alabama white BBQ sauce, marinara, ranch, or hot sauce. If your kids are picky eaters, serve them with ketchup!

Recipe Variations

To make your air fryer bagel bites extra fancy, consider topping them with more cheese like aged cheddar, parmesan, or Gouda. If you’d like to add other pizza toppings, try finely diced onions, mushrooms, or peppers. Any of your usual pizza toppings will work here!

Tips For The Best Recipe

Texture: For a crispier bottom, cook bagel bites in the air fryer at 400 degrees F. If you’d prefer them to be a similar texture as with the microwave, cook them at 340 degrees F. After testing, I found the sweet spot for my liking to be right at 360 degrees F.
Cook time: Cook time may vary depending on the brand you use. I use the Ninja Foodi air fryer, and it takes 4-6 minutes at 360 degrees F. Test out different times to see what works best for your specific air fryer.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you manage to have leftover air fryer bagel bites, here’s what to do:

Fridge: Store the bagel bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Pop your bagel bites in the air fryer again, and cook them at 350 degrees F for about 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through.

Additional Recipes

Looking for more easy air fryer snacks and sides? Check out some of my most popular recipes:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put foil in the air fryer?

Technically you can use foil in the air fryer. However, it’s best to check the user manual of your particular brand. Using aluminum foil can cause the air to poorly circulate, which causes unevenly cooked food. This is why I don’t recommend it.

Do I have to preheat my air fryer?

Although it’s not necessary to preheat your air fryer, most people recommend you do. It’s especially important with thick cuts of meat or frozen foods in order to achieve the crispy texture air fryers are known for.

Can you make bagel bites in the oven?

Yes, you can make bagel bites in the oven, but they’re almost twice as fast and just as crispy when cooked in the air fryer.

Crispy Air Fryer Bagel Bites

Course Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword bagel bites, Pizza

Servings people

Calories 210kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

16 bagel bites

Instructions

Turn your air fryer to 360 °F degrees and allow to preheat for about 5 minutes. Spray the inside of the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray if needed.
Place the frozen bagel pizza bites in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket.
Air fry bagel bites at 360 degrees F for 4-6 minutes. Start checking the bagel bites around the 4 minute mark since all air fryers cook differently.
Carefully remove the air fryer pizza bagels with a pair of tongs and serve.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Bagel Bites appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Sweet Potato

Anna Kate — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 16:36:13 +0000

This air fryer sweet potato recipe is incredibly easy to make, and cooks up in less time than in a traditional oven! It’s crispy on the outside yet tender and creamy on the inside. Serve it as a side dish, or load it with toppings for a complete meal.

Just like regular air fryer potatoes, sweet potatoes are another addition to my ever-growing collection of air fryer recipes.

An air fryer is one of those kitchen appliances that really lives up to its name and makes cooking such a breeze! It’s more hands-off than an oven, heats up instantly, and the food comes out just as good (if not better). What’s not to love?

Why This Recipe Works

Time-saving: Save as much as 20 minutes by using the air fryer over a standard convection oven. Plus, no preheating is necessary.
Frees up the oven: While the sweet potatoes are in the air fryer, your oven is free to make other recipes to serve alongside it.
Simple: All you need is sweet potatoes, butter, and salt in this easy-to-make recipe.
Healthy: Sweet potatoes are packed full of vitamins and minerals, making them a perfectly healthy side to pair with proteins and other mains.

What Are The Best Sweet Potatoes For Air Frying?

With so many different varieties of sweet potatoes, I’ve narrowed down the best ones for air frying, plus which ones to avoid:

Orange skin and flesh: These varieties include Red Garnet or Jewel sweet potatoes. They seem to cook the best, leaving an almost caramelized skin and moist flesh. I prefer long and skinny potatoes to round and short ones because they cook more evenly.
Tan or purple skin: Potatoes like Sweet Hannah, Japanese, or Purple tend to dry out when they’re cooked in the air fryer. I don’t recommend these varieties for air frying.

Note: The term yam and sweet potato are often used interchangeably in North American grocery stores. True yams are very hard to find, have thicker skin, and are even more starchy than Purple sweet potatoes.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Sweet potatoes: Look for sweet potatoes that are similar in size, which will help them cook more evenly. Also, avoid sweet potatoes with any discolorations, soft spots, deep gashes, etc.
Butter: Who can resist the combination of sweet potatoes and warm butter? The saltiness of the butter really brings out the sweetness of the potatoes. If you want, you can also use margarine, but I prefer real butter!
Seasonings: I kept things simple with just salt, but you can get creative with your seasonings (I’ve listed ideas in the variations section).

How to Make Sweet Potatoes In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Wash the potatoes

Wash the outside of however many potatoes you’ll be air frying. Make sure to scrub them thoroughly with a dish sponge or brillo pad to remove any dirt and debris from the skins.

Step 2: Air fry the sweet potatoes

Place the sweet potatoes inside your air fryer basket. Set it to 380F, and cook the sweet potatoes in the air fryer for 40 minutes.

You’ll know they are done when you can easily pierce through the center with a fork. The cook time may vary slightly depending on the size of your sweet potatoes.

Step 3: Add butter and seasonings

Split the potatoes in half, then season them with butter, salt, and any other seasonings that you enjoy!

How To Serve Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes

Just like oven-baked sweet potatoes, air fryer sweet potatoes make an excellent addition to a Thanksgiving or Christmas spread.

Serve them alongside a Crockpot turkey breast, spiral ham, green bean casserole, Southern cornbread dressing, turkey gravy, and homemade cranberry sauce for the ultimate feast!

Recipe Variations

Oven-baked: Although it takes a little longer, you can easily follow the same steps and bake the sweet potatoes in your oven.
Seasonings: In addition to salt, try cinnamon, garlic powder, cardamom, nutmeg, cumin, cayenne, paprika, turmeric, or garam masala.
Casseroles: Make single-serving sweet potato casseroles by adding brown sugar to the butter, and topping the potatoes with mini marshmallows or candied pecans.
Stuffed: Make stuffed sweet potatoes with ground chicken, spinach, melted cheese green onions, and sour cream.
Twice-baked: Scoop out the flesh of the sweet potatoes, and turn them into twice-baked sweet potatoes instead!

Tips For The Best Recipe

Poking is optional: Many people recommend poking sweet potatoes before air frying them, which is supposed to speed up the cooking process. I personally find this unnecessary and quite a lot messier. This is just a matter of preference.
Scrub, scrub, scrub: Since the skins won’t be peeled away, remember to give the sweet potatoes a thorough scrub and towel dry before placing them in the air fryer!
Adjust your temperature: All air fryers are slightly different, so you may need to adjust the temperature or cooking time a touch. Don’t worry though, it’s pretty difficult to overcook sweet potatoes.
Use foil: You can wrap the sweet potatoes in foil, which creates an extra tender texture and makes for an easy clean-up.

What To Do With Leftovers

Fridge: Once your sweet potatoes have cooled, store them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Transfer the sweet potatoes to a freezer-safe bag or container, and store them for up to 6 months in the freezer.
Reheat: Warm up your sweet potatoes in the air fryer at 400 degrees F for about 8-10 minutes.

Additional Recipes

If you enjoyed the simplicity of this air fryer sweet potato recipe, here are some more of my most popular air fryer recipes for you to try:

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take sweet potatoes to cook in the air fryer?

Sweet potatoes take about 40 minutes at 380 degrees F in the air fryer.

Do you have to soak sweet potatoes before air frying?

No, you don’t have to soak sweet potatoes before air-frying them. In fact, the dryer the sweet potato is, the better it will crisp up.

Why are my sweet potatoes not crispy in the air fryer?

If your sweet potatoes aren’t crisping up in the air fryer, it’s likely the cause of too much moisture. Once you wash your potatoes, make sure they are dry by patting them with a cloth. Next, ensure there is no overcrowding in the basket. Leave enough room for the air to properly circulate.

Easy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Recipe

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Side Dish Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword potato recipes, sweet potatoes

Cook Time 40

Total Time 40

Servings serving

Calories 146kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

sweet potatoes

Seasoning Ideas

salt
butter
Other seasoning as desired

Instructions

Place the sweet potatoes inside your air fryer basket. Set it to 380F, and cook the sweet potatoes in the air fryer for 40 minutes.
You’ll know they are done when you can easily pierce through the center with a fork. The cook time may vary slightly depending on the size of your sweet potatoes.
Split the potatoes in half, then season them with butter, salt, and any other seasonings that you enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1pound | Calories: 146kcal

The post Air Fryer Sweet Potato appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes

Anna Kate — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 19:22:50 +0000

Air fryer potatoes are the easiest side dish and perfect for a weeknight dinner! All you have to do is toss baby red potatoes with olive oil and seasonings, then pop them in the air fryer. You’ll end up with crispy yet tender potatoes in under 20 minutes.

I don’t know if it’s just me, but the easiest recipes almost always end up tasting the best. There’s just something about minimal prep work and cleanup that gets me every time!

Air fryer potatoes are the perfect side dish to serve alongside your favorite proteins and salads, making weeknight dinners a breeze. This side dish would be delicious served with a pot roast, roasted chicken, or other protein. You could even serve this side with a little garlic butter for dipping!

Why I Love this Recipe

Quick & easy: This simple recipe is ready in less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings, choose different potatoes, or make it oil-free. The options are endless!
Affordable: The only required ingredients for this recipe are easily accessible and affordable in most places.
Healthy: Full of vitamins and minerals, air fryer potatoes can be part of a well-balanced and healthy diet.
Diet-friendly: This recipe is vegetarian/vegan-friendly and gluten-free.

What are the best potatoes for air frying?

You really can’t go wrong with air frying most varieties of potatoes, but there are some that are better than others.

Baby potatoes, also known as new potatoes, are the young form of regular-sized potatoes. Since they are harvested early, they contain a higher sugar content, making them ideal for roasting and air frying. Here are a few of the top choices:

Baby gold: Due to the high sugar and low starch content, baby gold potatoes are among the best for air frying. They turn a beautiful golden brown, crisp up perfectly on the outsides, and stay creamy on the insides.
Baby red: Baby red potatoes contain more sugar and less starch than baby golds, meaning they crisp up even more! Similarly, the insides remain creamy and delicious.
Baby russet: Baby russet potatoes also work well for air frying. They turn fluffy and soft on the insides with similar crispiness on the outsides to baby red and gold. The flavor is milder, but they are still a great option!

Benefits of the air fryer

Saves time: No more long preheating times! Plus, the overall cook time is much less than in conventional ovens.
Crisps better: An air fryer will crisp up the outside of the potatoes perfectly while leaving the insides creamy, buttery, and soft.
Easy cleanup: Air fryers are simple to clean with a little soap, a sponge, and some water. Most models are non-stick and even dishwasher-safe!
Healthier than frying: Air frying is much healthier than deep frying. It reduces calories by almost 80% due to the limited amount of oil required in the cooking process.

My Favorite Air Fryer: Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, & Air Fryer

Ninja FD401 Foodi 12-in-1 Deluxe XL 8 qt. Pressure Cooker & Air Fryer that Steams, Slow Cooks, Sears, Sautés, Dehydrates & More, with 5 qt. Crisper Basket, Deluxe Reversible Rack & Recipe Book, Silver: Home & Kitchen

View Product on Amazon

Ingredients For Air Fryer Potatoes

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Baby red potatoes: Sometimes labeled as “creamer” potatoes, baby red potatoes are my preferred choice. The next best options are baby gold potatoes, baby russet potatoes, or fingerling potatoes.
Olive oil: To toss the potatoes in, providing a crispy exterior. Opt for a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil whenever possible. If you don’t have olive oil, use avocado oil or sunflower oil instead.
Salt & pepper: Potatoes require a generous level of salt, so don’t worry about overseasoning them. Cracked black pepper adds just the right amount of bite.
Garlic & onion powder: I personally love the savory flavors of garlic and onion powder together. Feel free to mix up the seasonings to suit your taste. Try rosemary, thyme, or other dried herbs.

How to Make Air Fryer Potatoes

Step 1: Wash & season

Wash and dry the baby potatoes, then place them in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

If you are using any other fresh herbs or spices, you can add them at this point as well.

Step 2: Air fry the potatoes

Set the temperature of your air fryer to 400°F, then add the potatoes to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook the potatoes for 20 minutes, making sure to remove the basket and shake it at the halfway point.

Continue air frying the potatoes for the remaining 10 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

Step 3: Serve the potatoes

Immediately transfer the cooked potatoes to a serving bowl, and enjoy while warm!

What To Serve With Air Fryer Potatoes

Air fryer potatoes make a delicious accompaniment alongside proteins like pork tenderloin, chicken breast, boneless prime rib, pulled pork, or dry rub ribs.

Serve them with a green bean casserole or salads like Caprese, Caesar, pasta salad, or spinach salad with warm bacon dressing for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

Infused oil: Try using infused olive oil like rosemary, sage, garlic, or chili in place of regular olive oil.
Different herbs & spices: Switch up the flavors with seasonings like cumin, coriander, curry powder, turmeric, smoked paprika, cayenne, rosemary, sage, oregano, dill, chives, or thyme.
Potato varieties: Instead of baby red potatoes, try baby sweet potatoes. The total cook time may be slightly longer.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Cook in a single layer. Although this largely depends on the model of your air fryer, but for the crispiest results, make sure the potatoes are air fried in a single layer. Cook them in batches if need be.
Preheat the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes while you’re washing and seasoning the potatoes. Although not entirely necessary, it helps reduce overall cooking time for most air fryers.
Coat the potatoes evenly. Toss the potatoes thoroughly with olive oil in a mixing bowl. This will ensure the skins turn out evenly crisped and seasoned.

What To Do With Leftovers

Fridge: Keep cooked potatoes in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Cooked potatoes can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. Make sure they have completely cooled, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheat: You can air fry potatoes again at 400 degrees F for 10 minutes, checking to see if they have heated all the way through at the 8-minute mark.

More Air Fryer Recipes

If you enjoyed these air fryer potatoes, you need to try some more of my flavor-packed recipes made in this wonder appliance:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to preheat the air fryer?

For the most consistent cook time and evenly cooked potatoes, you can preheat the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes. If your particular air fryer heats up quickly, don’t worry about preheating it.

Should I soak potatoes in water before air frying them?

No, it’s not necessary to soak potatoes in water before air frying them.

Why aren’t my potatoes crispy?

Your potatoes may not be crispy enough for one of two reasons. Firstly, you may need to cook them longer. Secondly, ensure the potatoes have time to dry prior to air frying, especially if you’re using a watery variety.

Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, air fryer recipe, potato recipe, potatoes, red potatoes

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings people

Calories 23kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

1.5 pounds new potatoes also labeled as “creamer” potatoes, these are about 1 inch in diameter.
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

Wash and dry potatoes. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle on olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Add potatoes to the air fryer. Set temperature to 400 degrees. Set timer to 20 minutes. Press start. At 10 minute mark, halfway through cooking, remove the basket and shake. Place the basket back in air fryer and cook the remaining 10 minutes.
Place cooked potatoes in serving bowl. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

The post Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Best Frozen French Fries in the Air Fryer

Anna Kate — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000

How to cook frozen French fries in the air fryer – the healthier way to enjoy fries without deep-frying! Made in 20 minutes, use store-bought frozen French fries for perfectly crispy fries every single time! Tips on seasoning, cook time, and reheating leftover fries are in the recipe card below.

No more messy deep frying or soggy french fries! Air frying has transformed the way we cook. It’s one of the quickest, most efficient ways to prepare so many different dishes. We use our Ninja Foodi multi-cooker on a very regular basis…almost daily! It’s great for reheating leftovers and making meals fast.

A few of our favorite air fryer recipes include frozen burgers, “grilled” chicken breast, and pizza rolls. We even use it to reheat pizza for leftover homemade pizza!

Air Fryer Frozen French Fries

Before I discovered air frying french fries, we would make them in the oven. This resulted in uneven cooking, some were soggy, and some were burned. It didn’t seem to matter whether I used shoestring fries, waffle fries, curly fries, or any other shape. They never turned out the way they do in a fast-food restaurant.

And forget deep frying french fries. There was too much mess and so much grease!

Now, we only use the air fryer to make french fries. The air fryer makes them so crispy on the outside and tender (not dry!) on the inside. It’s my favorite way to make them for burgers!

Why this is the best way to make french fries:

It’s simple. There’s nothing fancy about this method. Simply dump a bag of frozen fries into the air fryer, season, cook, and enjoy.
It’s versatile. You can use any shape of french fry you like: curly, waffle, shoestring, steak fries, seasoned, or unseasoned.
It’s fast. From frozen to fried, these are done in about 20 minutes. Plus, there’s minimal clean-up.
It’s (more) health-conscious. Fries aren’t exactly “healthy” but frying them with less oil makes them a little better for you than deep frying.

Making french fries in the air fryer vs. oven vs. deep fryer

Whether you are cooking frozen or homemade french fries, there are three main ways to prepare them:

Air Fried French Fries: This method is the easiest way to get crispy fries. There’s also minimal mess to clean up, especially when compared to deep frying. Using the air fryer ensures you have perfectly crispy french fries every single time.

Baked French Fries: While it’s simple, baking doesn’t always leave you with the best results. I’ve never been able to get that perfectly crispy texture using the oven. Plus, some of the fries can easily dry out on the inside while others are undercooked.

Deep-Fried French Fries: Using a deep fryer is a great way to get crispy, hot, salty fries. The oil also makes a big mess and splatters everywhere. Plus, the oil is an extra cost that’s poured out at the end of cooking. Not to mention, it’s the least health-conscious option.

Are french fries healthier in an air fryer?

French fries get a bad rap for being an unhealthy junk food because they are usually deep-fried and heavily salted.

Air frying allows you to reduce the amount of oil drastically and control the amount of seasoning added. All of this without compromising the fried and salty flavors! It may not be nutritiously more healthy, but it is a better choice than deep frying.

What You Need to Make Crispy Air Fryer Fries

Air Fryer: You can use a traditional air fryer unit or a multi-cooker with an air fryer function.
Frozen French Fries: All different types of fries will work for this recipe. You can use different brands, too: Ore Ida, generic brands, etc. (more info below)
Seasoning: This recipe uses a pinch of salt, but you can season with any seasoning you like.
Cooking Spray: Light cooking spray is all you need to crisp up these french fries.
Condiments: Don’t forget to grab your favorite dipping sauce, fry sauce, yum yum sauce, ketchup, mustard, etc.

How to Cook French Fries in an Air Fryer

This is such an easy way to get the best fries you’ve ever had!

Add the frozen fries to the basket of your air fryer. Season with salt and pepper or the seasoning of your choice. See the suggestions below.

Then, lightly spray the fries with olive oil spray. This helps them crisp up even more.

Set the air fryer to cook for 10 minutes at 400°F. After 10 minutes, shake the basket and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes or until the fries reach the desired crispiness.

Shaking the air fryer basket or tray rotates the fries and helps cook them evenly. This also makes sure the texture is the same on every fry.

Note: If the fries have air fryer instructions, refer to those for the cooking time and temperature.

To serve, transfer the cooked fries to a plate, and add any final seasonings before diving in!

Why are my fries not crispy in the air fryer?

If the fries aren’t crisping up, it’s likely that the air fryer is overcrowded or the air is not hot enough. You may also need to increase the cooking time.

The age of your air fryer, basket shape, and amount of fries will impact the cooking time, too. Use the info in the recipe card as a guideline.

Should frozen French fries be thawed before frying?

You do not need to defrost the french fries before air frying. The great thing about using the air fryer is that you rarely need to defrost what you are cooking. Simply dump the fries straight from the freezer and cook!

Ideas for Seasoning Frozen French Fries

Can I season frozen fries? Yes, you can! If you’re wondering how to make frozen fries taste better, the secret is in the seasoning!

You can amp up frozen fries easily with seasonings and herbs you likely already have in your kitchen. Simply add the seasoning to the fries before cooking. When using fries that are already flavored, use caution when adding additional seasonings.

Here are some seasoning ideas for french fries:

Make them gourmet. Sprinkle with onion powder, garlic salt, and fresh rosemary.
Lawry’s Seasoning Salt
Cajun or Creole Seasoning
Drizzle with truffle oil after cooking.
Classic salt and pepper
Italian seasoning
Garlic and parmesan cheese

Air Frying Different Types of Fries

There are so many different kinds of french fries out there. You can do all of them in an air fryer, but you made need to adjust the cooking time to more or less, depending on your desired crispiness.

Here are some different types of French fries:

Curly fries
Waffle fries
Tater tots
Crinkle cut fries
Seasoned and unseasoned fries
Potato wedges
Steak fries
Shoestring fries

Tips for the Best French Fries

Don’t overcrowd the basket. Allowing enough room for the hot air to circulate is important for the best and most crispy french fries. Most air fryers have an indicator to show the maximum fill line. One bag of french fries will fit in the basket of a 4-quart air fryer.

Shake the basket. For even cooking and the best results, make sure you shake the air fryer basket to rotate the french fries as they cook.

Seasoning. Don’t be afraid to get creative with different seasonings. Season before cooking with homemade seasoning or store-bought rubs. Alternatively, add grated parmesan or drizzle truffle oil over the fries just before serving for a gourmet twist.

Different types of fries. Make the french fries homemade or from the freezer section. This method will work on any shape of French fry. Adjust the cook time as needed.

How to serve French Fries

Serve these with a big juicy burger, pork chops, chicken nuggets, hot sandwich sliders, or any other main dish.

Don’t forget the dipping sauces! Try BBQ sauce, ketchup, mustard, ranch dressing, and more.

Reheating and Storing Leftover French Fries

Use up the leftover french fries for poutine or a different take on nachos.

Store the leftovers inside an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the french fries, program the air fryer to 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until crispy and warm.

Recipe FAQ and Expert Tips

Can you cook store-bought frozen French fries in an air fryer?

Yes, frozen french fries can be cooked in an air fryer. These can be store-bought or homemade.

Should I preheat my air fryer for frozen French fries?

It’s not necessary to preheat an air fryer. There are many sources that say this makes the food even better, but I haven’t noticed a difference.

How do you crisp french fries in an air fryer?

For additional crispiness, you can use the broil function on the air fryer or extend the cooking time. Use this with caution as they can quickly burn or dry out.

How much oil do you put in an air fryer for french fries?

No oil is needed to cook frozen french fries in the air fryer.

These are the best frozen fries! It’s an easy side dish that we love to serve with our air fryer hamburgers. Make these just like your favorite fast-food fries and use your favorite seasonings and dip them in your favorite sauce.

Best, Crispiest Air Fryer French Fries

How to cook frozen french fries in the air fryer – the healthier way to enjoy fries without deep-frying! This is the best method for making crispy, delicious french fries. Use your favorite brand of store-bought frozen french fries. Made in about 20 minutes, these fries come out perfectly crispy every single time! Tips on seasoning, cook time, and reheating leftover fries are in the recipe card below.

Course Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, french fries

Cook Time 20

Total Time 20

Servings servings

Calories 139kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Pressure Cooker

Ingredients

16- ounce bag of frozen French fries
salt I like to use seasoning salt
cooking spray

Instructions

Place the frozen fries in the basket of your air fryer. Sprinkle with salt and spray lightly with olive oil spray.
Cook for 400 degrees for 10 minutes. Shake the fries and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until crispy.

Notes

This method works on any type of french fry.
Season the fries before cooking. When using fries that are already flavored, use caution when adding additional seasonings.
If the fries have air fryer instructions, refer to those for the cooking time and temperature.

Reheating / Storing / Leftovers Info:

Store leftovers inside an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat the french fries, program the air fryer to 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until crispy and warm.

Nutrition

The post Best Frozen French Fries in the Air Fryer appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Frozen Burgers in the Air Fryer

Anna Kate — Thu, 09 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Learn how to cook a frozen hamburger in the air fryer. Frozen beef patties, simple seasoning, your favorite condiments, and an air fryer is all you need to enjoy burgers all year round. In just 10 minutes, you can have a delicious burger that tastes like it came right off the grill! No defrosting or prep work necessary.

This method is perfect for beef burgers. This also works on veggie burgers, Beyond Meat, turkey burgers, salmon burgers, and other frozen meat patties.

Air Fryer Hamburger Recipe

Cook juicy, flavorful burgers from frozen beef patties perfectly every time! This is the easiest way to enjoy a hamburger whenever the craving strikes.

Premade frozen burgers are the ultimate convenience item! These patties are already formed, then frozen for purchase at your local grocery store. At about an inch thick, these only take 10 minutes to prepare.

Out of the many recipes we make in the air fryer, hamburgers are definitely our top choice. There’s something about the simplicity of whipping up a burger without all the fuss of preheating the grill, defrosting the meat, cleaning the grill, and… monitoring the weather.

I use a Ninja Foodi Air Fryer for all of my air fryer recipes. On average, we use it at least three times per week…sometimes more! We even use it to reheat pizza for leftover homemade pizza! A few of our other easy air fryer recipes include pizza rolls, French fries, “grilled” chicken breast, and chicken nuggets.

Here’s why I love this recipe.

It’s easy. There is zero prep work when you use premade burger patties. All you have to do is pull them out of the freezer, add seasoning, and air fry.
It’s fast. Burgers are ready in about 10 minutes, which is about a fraction of the time compared to grilling. No fuss over preheating the grill, defrosting meat, cleaning the grill, etc.
Weather friendly. No more stress over maintaining the grill’s temperature in really cold or hot weather. Plus, you can make burgers in rain, snow, sleet, or shine!
No grill needed. Air fryers can be used for so many different things. (more ideas below!)
No thawing. You can cook these burgers straight from the freezer. No defrosting necessary.

Air Frying vs. Grilling vs. Pan Searing Burgers

Air Frying: When air fried, these burgers cook very quickly while staying juicy and tender. There is also minimal mess to clean up, aside from washing the utensils and air fryer basket. Since these are (typically) non-stick, cleaning up is a breeze. Some can even go in the dishwasher.

Grilling Burgers: It’s a classic way to prepare burgers, but it’s also labor-intensive. There’s so much more to the cooking process with grilling: preheating the grill, cleaning the grill, stabilizing the temperature, considering the weather, etc.

Not to mention, you also have to replace the propane on occasion, have room for storing the grill, supplies, etcetera. Plus, there’s a bit of a learning curve with operating a grill.

Pan Searing Burgers: Before the air fryer, this was the default if the grill wasn’t an option. But, this gets messy and smelly. It also produces a lot of grease. The grease splatters when the cold burgers hit the pan and the smell can permeate through the house.

Best Brand of Frozen Hamburger Patties

There are many different options for premade frozen burger patties. Typically, we stick to generic brands, but we’ve also had great success using other brands, too.

Here are some of the most popular brands of frozen patties:

Ball Park
Bubba Burgers
Omaha Steaks
Applegate
Generic store brands like Trader Joe’s, Costco, Walmart, Kroger, Meijer, etc.

Any lean-to-fat ratio is up to your own preference. Also, angus, chuck, reduced fat, flavored options, and more will all make for a great burger!

Frozen Burger Patties vs. Fresh

The key to keeping this process easy and simple is the pre-pattied frozen burgers. You can find these in the freezer section of the grocery store. You can also use this method to prepare frozen burgers you’ve made at home, too.

Can you cook a raw burger in an air fryer?

While these instructions are specific to frozen hamburger meat, you can also use these same steps for fresh, raw, or thawed burger patties. The cook time and temperature largely depends on the thickness of the burgers. Keep that in mind when you are preparing to cook.

How to make thawed burgers in the air fryer:

Add the patties to the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook at 375°F for 6-8 minutes. Then, flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes.
The burger is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F when read with a meat thermometer.

How to Season Frozen Hamburger Patties

You might be curious as to how the seasoning sticks to a frozen burger patty. Typically, we marinate our frozen burgers in Dale’s Seasoning before we put them in the air fryer. We let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes.

If you aren’t using a liquid seasoning or marinade, dry rubs and seasonings are great options, too. Place the frozen patties in the air fryer and sprinkle on the dry seasoning on one side. After flipping the patties, add the seasoning to the other side.

Use your own store bought burger seasoning, a homemade dry rub, or a combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper.

How to Cook a Frozen Hamburger in the Air Fryer

You just need a few simple ingredients to make the perfect burger!

What you need to make a juicy air fryer hamburger:

Air Fryer: You can use a traditional air fryer unit or a multi-cooker with an air fryer function.
Frozen Beef Patties: You can use premade options or cook a frozen homemade version. This method works with turkey burgers, veggie burgers, elk burgers, or bison burgers, too.
Seasoning: Use a liquid or dry ingredient marinade of your choice. Montreal steak seasoning or other store bought rubs are great for additional convenience.
Condiments and Toppings: Dress your burger with lettuce, cheese slices, condiments, and other toppings.

Step 1: Season the Frozen Burger Patties.

Remember, there’s no need to thaw the premade patty. Just remove it from the freezer and place the burgers in a single layer in a casserole dish or rimmed baking sheet.

Add the dry seasoning or pour in the marinade. If you are using dry seasoning, place the burgers into the air fryer basket and add the seasoning on the top side. Then, add seasoning to the opposite side after flipping the patties.

Step 2: Air Fry the Burgers.

Next, place the patties into the basket of your air fryer and cook for 8-10 minutes at 350°F. Flip halfway through the cooking time to ensure the patties are evenly cooked and browned on all sides.

The burgers are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F when read with a meat thermometer.

Do you need to flip burgers in the air fryer?

While it’s not absolutely necessary, flipping the burgers during the cooking process will ensure that the meat is evenly cooked throughout. Plus, a little “grill char” develops on the side that touches the air fryer basket. This adds additional flavor and appetizing coloring to the patty.

Step 3: Serve the burgers.

Once your hamburgers are cooked, remove them from the air fryer, add them to a bun, dress with your favorite toppings and condiments and serve!

How to Make a Cheeseburger

To turn your hamburger into a cheeseburger, place a cheese slice on top of the patty and allow the burger to rest for a minute or two inside the air fryer with the unit off. The cheese will not blow around with this method!

Serving Suggestions for Assembling Burgers

In my opinion, there’s no “correct” way to dress a burger. It’s all about what you like and the flavors you enjoy.

If you are serving more than a few people, I recommend setting up a “burger bar” with a large platter of condiments and toppings. This way, people can assemble their burgers in their own way.

Here are a few tips for serving burgers:

Include standard burger toppings: Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, pickle chips, lettuce, onion, and tomato are all classic additions to burgers.
Add sauces: Use bbq sauce, sriracha mayo, chipotle mayo, aioli spreads, and other flavorful spreads.
Incorporate themes: This could be from different regions, countries, or inspired by a party theme. Add regional flavors, sauces, and ingredients to play on the theme of the meal. Like Cajun, Mexican, Asian, and BBQ themes.
Don’t forget the buns: Use different flavored hamburger buns for variety. Toast them under the oven broiler or in the air fryer after the burgers have been removed.
Other toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with unusual toppings. Try sliced avocado, guacamole, caramelized onions and mushrooms, pickled onions and more.

Tips for the Best Frozen Burgers

Don’t crowd the basket. For even cooking and best results, make sure the patties are in a single layer inside the air fryer basket.
Season well. Use your favorite homemade seasoning or store bought seasoning.
Cooking times will vary. Since every air fryer is different, it’s hard to get the timing right for every make and model of air fryer. My advice is to use my time as a guideline, adjusting the cooking time according to your air fryer unit. The age of your air fryer, basket shape, and number of patties will all impact the cooking time.
Make cleaning up easy. Line the basket with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easier clean up.

Air Fryer Hamburger FAQ

How long does it take to cook a hamburger in the air fryer?

The process of cooking a burger in the air fryer takes about 10 minutes from start to finish.

Can you put frozen burgers in an air fryer?

Yes, frozen hamburgers do really well in the air fryer. In about 10 minutes, the burgers will go from completely frozen to juicy and tender.

Can you put aluminum foil and parchment paper in an air fryer?

If you want to make the clean-up process easier, line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil or parchment paper.

Do you preheat an air fryer?

It’s not necessary to preheat an air fryer. There are many sources that say this makes the food even better, but I haven’t noticed a difference.

Should I grill or air fry burgers?

Air frying hamburgers is a much more convenient option than grilling. It’s cleaner, hassle-free, and doesn’t have a learning curve like grilling.

Are hamburgers good cooked in an air fryer?

Hamburgers are delicious prepared in the air fryer. It’s an easy way to have a juicy burger quickly.

What to serve with hamburgers:

See more side dishes here.

Air fryer hamburgers are the easiest way to enjoy burgers for a great weeknight dinner!

Air Fryer Frozen Burgers

Learn how to cook a frozen hamburger in the air fryer. Frozen beef patties, simple seasoning, your favorite condiments, and an air fryer is all you need to enjoy the perfect burger. In just 10 minutes, you can have a delicious burger that tastes like it came right off the grill! No defrosting or prep work necessary.

This method is perfect for beef burgers. This also works on veggie burgers, Beyond Meat, turkey burgers, salmon burgers, and other frozen meat patties.

Course Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, beef, burger, hamburger

Cook Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings burgers

Calories 540kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

Frozen beef burger patties*

Instructions

Season or marinate the burger patties.*
Place the patties into the air fryer basket.
Cook the burger for 8-10 minutes at 350°F, flipping the patties at the 5-minute mark.
Burger is done when it reaches an internal temp of 165°F.
Optional: Add a slice of cheese to the patty and close the lid of the air fryer. Allow it to rest for 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is melted. This is done with the air fryer off and lid closed.
Remove the hamburger from the air fryer basket. Serve on a bun with desired toppings.

Notes

This method is perfect for beef burgers. This also works on veggie burgers, Beyond Meat, turkey burgers, salmon burgers, and other frozen meat patties.

If you are using dry seasoning, place the burgers into the air fryer basket and add the seasoning on the top side. Then, add seasoning to the opposite side after flipping the patties.

Reheating / Storing / Leftovers Info:

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat burgers in the microwave for one minute at a time, or in the air fryer for 3 minutes at 375°F.

Variations

Don’t be afraid to get creative. Add flavors from different regions, countries, or themes. Include their local flavors, sauces, and ingredients. Examples: Cajun, Mexican, Asian, BBQ, etc.

How to make raw, defrosted hamburgers in the air fryer:

Add the patties to the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook at 375°F for 6-8 minutes. Then, flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes.
The burger is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F when read with a meat thermometer.

A note on air fryer units: Every air fryer is different which means cook times and temperatures vary across different units. The age of your air fryer, basket shape, and capacity will all impact the cooking time. Use the time listed in the recipe card as a guideline, adjusting the cooking time according to your air fryer unit.

Nutrition

The post Frozen Burgers in the Air Fryer appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Frozen Pizza Rolls

Anna Kate — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 10:00:00 +0000

Looking for a quick snack or appetizer? Cook Totino’s pizza rolls in the air fryer! This is the easiest way to get perfect pizza rolls every time! In less than 10 minutes, you’ll have crispy air fryer pizza rolls for an after school snack, game day appetizers, or a quick weeknight meal for picky eaters.

Is there anything easier than an air fryer snack? Frozen food is the ultimate convenience item. While it’s not always the healthiest choice, it does make preparing snacks so easy! There’s no prep work or planning ahead. You don’t even need to thaw the pizza rolls to use this recipe.

I love the “crunch” of a hot pizza roll, which is why I love making these in the air fryer. I use a Ninja Foodi Air Fryer for all of my air fryer recipes. On average, we use it at least three times per week…sometimes more! We even use it to reheat pizza for leftover homemade pizza!

Air fryers aren’t just for snacks. A few of our other easy air fryer recipes include hamburgers, french fries, “grilled” chicken breast, and chicken nuggets.

Frozen Totino’s Pizza Rolls in the Air Fryer

Besides an air fryer, the only other thing you actually need is the frozen pizza rolls. For this recipe, I used Totino’s pepperoni pizza rolls, but you can use any brand you choose.

Want to make your own homemade pizza rolls? You can make them using wonton wrappers, pizza dough, or crescent rolls for the shell. Just add pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pizza toppings, then wrap and cook!

I love making pizza rolls like this because it requires zero prep work. Plus, you can even add additional seasonings for more flavor – all in the air fryer!

See the sections below for more flavor ideas.

Pizza rolls in the air fryer oven vs. microwave or oven

Using an air fryer is the best way to get the crispy shell on the outside and warm pizza filling on the inside. With the air fryer, you can have them from the freezer to your plate in less than 10 minutes!

Here’s why I prefer the air fryer instead of the microwave or oven:

Microwave: Using the microwave is equally as fast, but it doesn’t leave you with the same results. The outside of the pizza roll won’t be crispy, but it will be doughy and soft. Nobody likes a soggy pizza roll!
Oven: An oven will deliver similar results, but the air fryer takes less time. First, you have to wait for the oven to preheat. Then, you have to wait for at least 10 more minutes until they are done.

How to Air Fry Pizza Rolls

Looking for a quick and easy appetizer? These pizza rolls are the perfect way to feed a party crowd! Air frying them keeps the cooking process quick. Plus, you aren’t using a bunch of oil like you would for deep frying.

All you have to do is drop them in the air fryer basket for about 10 minutes and you’ll have hot, delicious, mini pizza bites that will be devoured in no time!

What you need to cook pizza rolls in the air fryer:

Air Fryer: You can use a traditional air fryer unit or a multi-cooker with an air fryer function.
Pizza Rolls: I used Totino’s pepperoni pizza rolls, but different brands will also work. These need to stay frozen before cooking.
Cooking Spray: I like to lightly spray the pizza rolls so you get them extra crispy! Using cooking spray does help with cleaning up the melty cheese and sauce that oozes out. You can also line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or aluminum foil to make clean up easier.
Favorite Dipping Sauce: We love to dip in tomato sauce like marinara, blue cheese dressing, or ranch dressing.

The great thing about using an air fryer is that you do not need to preheat it as you would an oven.

All you need to do is add the pizza rolls to the basket of the air fryer. Try to keep them in a single layer. It’s ok if they touch a little, but too much overlapping can increase cooking time without as much crisp.

Turn your air fryer to 380°F and hit go! Air fry the pizza rolls for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and reach the desired crispness on the outside.

Don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through, or flip the pizza rolls with tongs.

Allow them to stand for 2 minutes before serving hot with dipping sauce, like warmed marinara sauce.

Remember, the pizza roll filling will be extremely hot! So, take that first bite with caution to avoid burning your mouth.

How long do you cook frozen pizza rolls in an air fryer?

Since every air fryer is different, it’s hard to get the timing right for every make and model of air fryer. My advice is to use my time as a guideline.

The age of your air fryer, basket shape, and number of pizza rolls will all impact the cooking time. You may need to add or reduce the cooking time according to your air fryer unit. I recommend checking after 3-4 minutes of cook time and as you begin to smell the pizza rolls cooking.

How do you add flavor to pizza rolls?

Can I season pizza rolls? Yes, you can! In fact, you don’t even have to take them out of the air fryer before doing so.

After the pizza rolls are done cooking, open the air fryer lid and brush with a little oil or melted butter so the seasoning can stick. Then, add the seasoning as desired.

Here are some seasoning ideas for pizza rolls:

Italian seasoning
Garlic butter and fresh herbs
Garlic salt
Dried ranch seasoning
Grated parmesan cheese
Drizzle with pesto
Hot sauce
Any other seasoning you enjoy with a slice of pizza.

Reheating and Storing Cooked Pizza Rolls

Store leftover pizza rolls in an airtight container in the fridge. For the best results, I recommend using within 3 days.

Reheat the pizza rolls using the microwave or air fryer.

Reheating in the air fryer: Air fry for 2-5 minutes at 375°F degrees, or until warmed through.
Reheating in the microwave: Microwave for 30-60 seconds until warmed through. Keep in mind that the outside will no longer be crispy after microwaving.

What goes with pizza rolls?

If you are preparing pizza rolls for dinner, prepare a quick side dish like a vegetable or side salad.

If you’re serving these to the kids at a party, put out chips, pretzels, or other snacks to go with the pizza rolls.

Don’t forget to serve these with dipping sauce!

Air Fryer Pizza Rolls FAQs & Tips

How do you doctor up pizza rolls?

Doctor up pizza rolls by brushing with olive oil or melted butter. Then, add different seasonings like Italian seasoning, grated parmesan cheese, dried ranch seasoning, garlic salt, pesto, or anything else you enjoy adding to a slice of pizza.

How do I make my pizza rolls crispy?

To make pizza rolls extra crispy, lightly spray the pizza rolls with olive oil spray before cooking. After rotating them halfway through cooking time, lightly spray again.

Can you cook frozen pizza rolls in the air fryer?

Yes, this recipe uses frozen pizza rolls in the air fryer.

Why do pizza rolls explode?

Pizza rolls explode because the water inside the sauce begins to boil as they are cooked. When the filling begins to boil, it creates pockets of hot air that eventually “leak” out of the pizza roll’s shell. Exploding pizza rolls could also mean they were overcooked.

To prevent pizza rolls from exploding, make sure you are shaking the air fryer basket or flipping the pizza rolls with tongs. Also, try reducing the temperature or cook time with your next batch if you find a lot of your pizza rolls are exploding.

Do you need to thaw pizza rolls before air frying?

Pizza rolls can be cooked frozen in less than 10 minutes.

Can you put aluminum foil and parchment paper in an air fryer?

You can cook pizza rolls right on the air fryer basket without sticking or burning. If you want to make the clean-up process easier, you can line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil or parchment paper.

Do you preheat an air fryer?

It’s not necessary to preheat an air fryer. There are many sources that say this makes the food even better, but I haven’t noticed much of a difference.

Are pizza rolls precooked?

Yes, Totino’s brand of pizza rolls are precooked. If you are not using Totino’s, refer to the packaging for exact product specifications.

Regardless, the pizza rolls should be cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of at least 160°F.

Air Fryer Pizza Rolls

Totino’s pizza rolls in the air fryer is the easiest way to get perfect pizza rolls every time! In less than 10 minutes, you’ll have crispy air fryer pizza rolls for an after school snack, game day appetizers, or a quick weeknight meal for picky eaters.

Course Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer recipe, appetizer, Pizza, pizza rolls, snack

Cook Time 8

Total Time 8

Servings servings

Calories 7kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

Frozen Pizza Rolls I used Totino’s but any brand will work.

Instructions

Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray, or line with aluminum foil or parchment paper, if desired.
Place up to 25 rolls in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches for the whole bag.
Cook at 380°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Notes

Reheating in the air fryer: Air fry for 2-5 minutes at 375°F degrees, or until warmed through.
Reheating in the microwave: Microwave for 30-60 seconds until warmed through. Keep in mind that the outside will no longer be crispy after microwaving.
Directions developed using 4-qt air fryer; cooking times may need to be adjusted.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 7kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Sodium: 13mg

Serving Size: 6 rolls

Ingredients:

Frozen Pizza Rolls (not brand specific)

Steps:

Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray, or line with aluminum foil or parchment paper, if desired.
Place up to 25 rolls in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches for the whole bag.
Cook at 380°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Directions developed using 4-qt air fryers; cooking times may need to be adjusted.

The post Air Fryer Frozen Pizza Rolls appeared first on Southern Cravings.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Anna Kate — Thu, 02 Jun 2022 19:33:20 +0000

Air fryer chicken nuggets are always delicious and cooked to the perfect crispiness! Made in just 20 minutes, this is the perfect weeknight meal for picky eaters. Learn how to make frozen chicken nuggets into a delicious, crispy snack. No more soggy breading!

Whether you are making these from scratch or pulling them out of the freezer, this method is the easiest way to make crispy chicken nuggets fast! This recipe works with Tyson Dino nuggets, Yummy Dino Buddies, homemade nuggets, regular chicken nuggets, and other fun-shaped chicken nuggets.

An air fryer cooks in about half the time of an oven. They cut down the cook time drastically! While your oven takes about 10 minutes to preheat, the air fryer is already halfway done with cooking. I never thought I would need another appliance, but I am hooked!

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe

We all need those easy recipes that don’t require a lot of preparation. Sometimes, it’s all about convenience and getting dinner on the table quickly during those busy weeknights.

I mean, you can make homemade chicken nuggets. But, if you are in a pinch for time, pre-breaded, frozen nuggets are the ultimate time saver.

Plus, they aren’t just for kids anymore. You can make these early in the week to top salads or as a quick lunch.

More reasons why I love them:

Feeds picky eaters: Even the pickiest of eaters will latch onto a plate of crispy nuggets. If you use the fun-shaped nuggets, you get a bonus point!
Use any brand: This method works with Tyson chicken nuggets, Dino Nuggets, Perdue, Yummy Dino Buddies, dinosaur nuggets, and more.
Fast and Easy: You can cook a whole bag of chicken nuggets from frozen to done in about 20 minutes. It takes about 10 minutes to preheat an oven, so using an air fryer is a faster cooking method.
No frying: Since air frying doesn’t require oil, it’s definitely a healthier option than deep frying. Plus, using a deep fryer just makes an absolute mess!
Crispy: These come out perfectly every time. No soggy breading or falling apart. Way better than any microwave chicken nuggets.
Saves Money: The deep fry method requires a lot of extra oil, extra costs, and extra hassle. Using the air fryer is a much better way to enjoy nuggets and requires less time and effort.

Best Sauce for Chicken Nuggets

There are so many different options and combinations for dipping! Here is a list of our favorite sauces.

Ranch
Ketchup
BBQ sauce – traditional or tangy!
Honey mustard
Buffalo sauce
French fry sauce
Other leftover fast food sauces

Best Frozen Chicken Nugget Brands

This recipe isn’t brand-specific, so use any brand you like. If you have kids, fun-shaped dinosaur chicken nuggets, smiley faces, letter shapes and others are great ways to make meal time fun.

Because this is a processed-food, look for brands that use real white meat chicken and without a lot of fillers added. You can also use veggie nuggets for a plant-based option.

Like I mentioned before, this recipe isn’t the healthiest option, but it’s better than swinging through a drive-thru window. If you have dietary restrictions, obviously you should honor those restrictions. Otherwise, look at this as an easy meal that’s a great way to feed the kids fast – not a weekly staple.

Here are some of the different brands I’ve tested and enjoy using this method:

Tyson
Perdue
Trader Joe’s
Banquette

How to Cook Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Nuggets

This is not a high-brow recipe by any stretch. But, it’s a simple and quick meal that doesn’t require much time or effort.

What you need to make this:

Any brand (or shape) of frozen chicken nuggets. Look for real chicken, high quality nuggets!
Air fryer: I love my Ninja Foodi. We use this appliance at least three times per week.
Tongs
Pot holders
Favorite dipping sauce

All you need to do is spray the air fryer tray or basket with cooking spray. Add the nuggets to the basket and cook at 390 degrees for 20 minutes, tossing halfway through. Don’t forget to shake the basket or flip the nuggets half way through so they get crispy on all sides.

Depending on the air fryer you have, you may need to work in batches to prepare a whole bag of chicken nuggets.

How Long to Cook Chicken Nuggets in the Air Fryer

Air fry frozen nuggets at 390 degrees for 20 minutes, tossing halfway through.

Most store bought chicken nuggets are already fully cooked, but should reach 165 degrees internally for safe eating. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to be sure.

After they are done cooking, allow them to rest for a minute or so to avoid burning little hands. This also allows the exterior to crisp up a bit more. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Best Way to Reheat Chicken Nuggets

If you thought the air fryer was only for cooking, think again! I love to use an air fryer for reheating pizza and other foods that should stay crispy!

This is a great method for reheating fast food nuggets, too. Reheat chicken nuggets from McDonald’s, Chick-Fil-A, Wendy’s, or other fast food restaurants.

To reheat chicken nuggets, add them to the air fryer basket and heat for about 5 minutes at 350F degrees until they are crispy and warmed through.

What to serve with Chicken Nuggets

Another thing I love about this recipe is that you can serve it with your favorite side dish or as a complete meal on its own. Here are some other side dishes to try:

Steamed vegetables
Air Fryer French Fries, curly fries, sweet potato fries
Potato dishes

Tips for the Best Chicken Nuggets

Know your air fryer: Just like every oven is different, the same goes for every air fryer. My model is likely different from yours. Be sure to follow the manual and instructions for your air fryer. Use cooking time as a reference point.
Don’t preheat: There’s no need to preheat the air fryer. Just add the nuggets to the basket and turn the unit on.
Don’t thaw: Chicken nuggets, french fries, pizza rolls, and other convenience foods can be cooked frozen.
Don’t overcrowd: Overcrowding will leave you with chicken nuggets that are unevenly cooked and possibly soggy. For the best results, add the nuggets in a single layer with a little space around for the hot air to circulate for the crispiest nuggets!

Do you need to preheat an air fryer?

You do not need to preheat an air fryer unless the instructions say to do so. Because the air fryer is much smaller than a conventional oven, the appliance heats up much faster than a regular oven. Plus, the heating element is closer to the food.

How do you cook frozen raw chicken nuggets in an air fryer?

To cook frozen, raw chicken nuggets, follow the steps in the recipe card below. Air Fry the nuggets for 8-10 minutes at 390, flipping halfway through. Take the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the nuggets reach 165 degrees F.

How do you make frozen chicken nuggets crispy?

The secret to crispy nuggets is the air fryer! Allowing plenty of room for the hot air to flow around the nuggets will give them a crispy exterior.

Why are my chicken nuggets soggy?

If your chicken nuggets are soggy, it’s likely because the air fryer basket was overcrowded or the nuggets need to continue cooking. Try removing some of the nuggets so the hot air can better circulate. Additionally, continue cooking for another 5 minutes to crisp up the exterior of the nuggets.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes:

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Course Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, Chicken, chicken nuggets, picky eaters

Cook Time 20

Total Time 20

Servings nuggets

Calories 10kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

Frozen Chicken Nuggets about 5 pieces per serving
Cooking Spray

Instructions

Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Add nuggets (may need to work in batches for whole bag).
Cook at 390 for 20 minutes, shaking basket halfway through.

Notes

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for the Best Chicken Nuggets

Know your air fryer: Just like every oven is different, the same goes for every air fryer. My model is likely different from yours. Be sure to follow the manual and instructions for your air fryer. Use cooking time as a reference point.
Don’t preheat: There’s no need to preheat the air fryer. Just add the nuggets to the basket and turn the unit on.
Don’t thaw: Chicken nuggets, french fries, pizza rolls, and other convenience foods can be cooked frozen.
Don’t overcrowd: Overcrowding will leave you with chicken nuggets that are unevenly cooked and possibly soggy. For the best results, add the nuggets in a single layer with a little space around for the hot air to circulate for the crispiest nuggets!

Nutrition

The post How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets appeared first on Southern Cravings.

How to Reheat Pizza in the Air Fryer

Anna Kate — Wed, 04 May 2022 14:46:19 +0000

Learn how to reheat pizza in an air fryer. For leftover pizza that tastes just as fresh as the night before, use the air fryer method. No more soggy pizza! All you need is less than 5 minutes to get that perfectly crispy crust and gooey cheese. Once you realize how amazing the air fryer is for reheating leftovers, there is no going back!

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to reheat your pizza, an air fryer is a great way to go. Not only does it reheat your pizza quickly and evenly, but it also gives the crust a nice crispy texture. Warm-up any kind of pizza – homemade pizza, thin crust pizza, deep dish, a single slice, or multiple slices. An air fryer will give you the best results every time.

Why reheat pizza in an air fryer?

An air fryer is a faster way to prepare quick meals than using a regular oven. Plus, they are wonderful at reheating leftovers.

No more soggy pizza! While microwaves can reheat just about anything, they tend to leave you with soggy pizza and a chewy crust. An air fryer circulates hot air throughout the appliance and on all sides of the food for even cooking, crispy crust, and flavors like it was freshly made!
Get better pizza in less time! It only takes about 5 minutes to reheat a few slices of pizza. Plus, there’s no preheating as with a regular oven.
Keep your kitchen cool! There’s really no reason to heat up a big oven for one little slice of pizza. Plus, your air fryer can do it better!

Any type of air fryer will work. My personal recommendation is a Ninja Foodi Air Fryer (affiliate link). It’s actually a multi-cooker with pressure cooking, slow cooking, and dehydrating functions…among other things. I LOVE this appliance and use it at least three times per week. It’s an investment that is 100% worth the cost!

What is the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Pizza?

If you’re a fan of pizza, then you know that there’s nothing quite like a slice of fresh pizza. But, when it comes to reheating, there’s a lot of debate about the best method.

There are a few different ways to warming up leftover pizza: skillet, conventional oven, microwave, toaster oven, or air fryer. While all of these ways will get the job done, using an air fryer to reheat leftovers wins by a landslide!

How do you reheat pizza in an air fryer?

If you love pizza but hate the soggy, cold leftovers the next day, then this post is for you. By following these simple steps, you’ll have hot, crispy pizza in no time!

Simply place the leftover pizza slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Turn the air fryer to 380F for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy. Detailed instructions are included in the recipe card below.

Depending on the size and style of your air fryer, you might need to reheat the pizza in batches. Be careful not to overlap the slices or you will have a gooey cheesy mess…unless you decide to eat it with a fork and knife! 😉

This method also applies to just about any other leftovers, too. We use the same process for reheating leftover french fries, mozzarella sticks, boneless chicken wings, etcetera. Use the air fryer to prepare these dishes from “scratch”, too.

Reheating Different Types of Pizza

Of course, the size and thickness of the pizza slices will impact cooking time, so you may need to adjust the temperature and timer accordingly. Whether you are cooking thin crust, thick crust, or deep dish pizza, here are a few tips for using an air fryer to reheat pizza.

Use aluminum foil or parchment paper for easier clean-up. Place it in the bottom of the air fryer basket and lightly spray with cooking spray so the cheese doesn’t stick or burn.
Use an air fryer rack instead of the basket. Depending on the style of air fryer oven, you may also have a metal rack that goes inside the pot of the unit. This also works well for reheating leftovers. Follow the same instructions as with the air fryer basket.
For deep dish or thick crust pizza, you may need to add an additional minute or two to warm it completely through.

More Air Fryer Recipes

Reheat Pizza in the Air Fryer

Course Cooking Guides

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, leftovers, Pizza, reheating

Cook Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings Pizza

Author Anna Kate

Cost Not applicable

Equipment

1 Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker (air fryer, pressure cooker, slow cooker combo)

Ingredients

Leftover pizza slices

Instructions

If desired, place a piece of foil or parchment paper in the air fryer basket.
Lightly spray with cooking spray. Place the leftover pizza slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Turn the air fryer to 380°F for about 5 minutes or until warm and the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.

The post How to Reheat Pizza in the Air Fryer appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe

Anna Kate — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 15:13:17 +0000

Toss them with Frank’s red hot buffalo sauce and serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. These can be made in under 30 minutes!

Continue reading for recipe details, cooking tips, reheating/storing info, and more.

These make a great appetizer for gamedays! Serve these with other delicious finger foods like a charcuterie board, spinach and artichoke dip, and nachos for an awesome spread!

There’s something about tangy buffalo wings that get me every time! Instead of picking these up at a restaurant, recreate these delicious chicken wings at home and save some money.

Air Fryer Wings

This recipe is similar to my oven baked chicken wings recipe. But, instead of baking, you are air frying.

An air fryer is like a small convection oven that cooks all kinds of foods evenly and perfectly done every time. This is the air fryer model I use and I absolutely love it! We use ours several times a week. It’s definitely worth the investment.

The thing I love the most about air-frying foods is that there is no wet batter, breading, or any of the mess and complications you get when deep frying. Just a little seasoning and olive oil and you can have restaurant-quality, food in minutes.

If you are looking for another great chicken dish in the air fryer, try out these air fryer chicken breasts for a lean entrée!

The Best Hot Wings Recipe

The cooking time will vary slightly depending on the size of your chicken wings. Be aware that you may need to adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Recipe Notes to Remember

This recipe uses fresh, thawed, uncooked chicken wings. See below for information on using pre-cooked chicken wings.
Frank’s Hot Sauce is a crowd favorite, but you can use any type of sauce you like, if preferred.
Air fryer units and chicken wing sizes vary across the board. Keep this is mind when preparing this recipe.
Find my air fryer unit here.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the inside of the chicken is cooked thoroughly.

Step 1: Apply Chicken Dry Rub

Add the thawed chicken wings to a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Then, mix together the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the mixture onto the chicken, and rub on to each wing so that they are well-coated with the seasoning.

Step 2: Air Fry the Wings

Place the wings in the basket of the air fryer (it’s ok if they overlap). Set the unit to 400F for 25 minutes, tossing every 5 minutes. Tossing at frequent intervals helps each piece of chicken to cook and crisp evenly.

Step 3: Toss with buffalo sauce

While the chicken cooks, whisk together the hot sauce, butter, and garlic powder in a large bowl.

Make sure the bowl is large enough for the wings to be added when they are cooked. After the wings are cooked and read 165F degrees internally, add to the large bowl of sauce, toss, and serve!

How long to air fry chicken wings at 400

Depending on the size of the chicken wings and your air fryer unit, cooking times may vary. This recipe has been tested at 20-25 minute cooking time at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Because of this, it’s important not to overfill your air fryer and to toss the chicken wings frequently throughout the cooking process.

How to Make Buffalo Sauce

The buffalo sauce makes these wings! This is a simple combination of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, butter, and a little garlic powder.

While the wings are cooking in the air fryer, whisk together the ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Toss in the cooked wings and stir to coat. If your mixing bowl has a lid, even better! Pop the lid on and shake up the wings until they are coated and saucy.

Recipe Variations

Use pre-cooked chicken.

Pre-cooked chicken nuggets, tenders, and wings are a great option to keep in your freezer. It can be prepped quickly on a busy night and can be served with veggies or over a quick salad.

To make this recipe with pre-cooked chicken, follow the directions on the package of pre-cooked chicken for a convection (or toaster) oven, then toss with the sauce and serve with a side dish or dipping sauces. You may need to rotate the chicken pieces every so often to achieve even cooking.

Try a variety of sauces.

Many favorite wing restaurants also sell their own sauces. Some are even in the grocery store. Add a few other sauces to your grocery list and experiment with different flavors.

Or, skip the sauce altogether and use this homemade dry rub for simple chicken wings.

What to serve with chicken wings

Baked sweet potato or regular baked potato
Side salad
Roasted asparagus
Sautéed green beans
Pasta salad
Caprese salad

Tips for reheating, leftovers, and storing

To reheat prepared chicken wings, place them in the air fryer at 375 for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
Use the leftover chicken wings to top salads or reheat in the air fryer.

FAQ: Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

How long should I put buffalo wings in the air fryer?

At 400 degrees, buffalo wings should be cooked for about 20-25 minutes depending on their size.

Do you need breading for air fryer?

The beauty of the air fryer is that no breading or batter is required.

Can I use a wet batter in an air fryer?

No, wet batter is not recommended for the air fryer.

Can you put raw chicken in air fryer?

Yes, any raw meats can be thoroughly cooked in the air fryer.

Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe

Learn how to make buffalo chicken wings in the air fryer! Tangy and crispy but without the breading, deep-frying, or mess to clean up afterward. Air fryer chicken wings give you crispy skin on the outside while still juicy and tender on the inside. Toss them with Frank's red hot buffalo sauce and serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. These can be made in under 30 minutes!

Course Appetizer Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword appetizers, buffalo wings, Chicken, Chicken Wings, finger foods, Game day food

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings people

Calories 368kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

For the Wings:

2 ½ pounds chicken wings thawed and uncooked; about 20 wings
1 tablespoon garlic powder
olive oil for drizzling
kosher salt
black pepper

Buffalo Wing Sauce Ingredients:

1 cup Frank’s RedHot® Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce
½ cup butter unsalted and melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes.
While the air fryer is preheating, combine garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
To a large mixing bowl, add the chicken wings and drizzle with olive oil. Toss until lightly coated.
Then, sprinkle the dry rub mixture onto the chicken and rub on to each wing so that they are well-coated with seasoning.
Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Add wings to air fryer basket, being careful not to over-fill.
Air fry at 400°F degrees for 25 to 30 minutes, shaking the basket or tossing wings with tongs every 5 minutes during cooking. The wings are cooked through when an internal meat thermometer reads 165°F.
While the wings are cooking, mix the butter, hot sauce, and garlic powder in a bowl large enough to accommodate the wings. Add cooked wings and toss to coat.*
Serve immediately.

Notes

Cook in batches, if needed, depending on the size of your air fryer.
Instead of coating the wings with sauce, serve the wings plain with the sauce on the side for dipping.
Experiment with different sauces and dry rubs for your own take on these wings!

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Anna Kate — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 17:24:03 +0000

Skinless, boneless chicken breast and the seasoning of your choice are all you need for simple and juicy air fryer chicken breast. This is a fast and protein-filled solution to meal prep or a weeknight dinner – made in 20 minutes.

Chicken breast gets such a bad rap, right? The idea of juicy, white chicken breast over a salad gives us all the warm, healthy fuzzies, but it rarely turns out that way.

Instead, we endure the dried-out version of our meal prep and make-ahead dinner dreams. No matter how much you dip, sauce, or serve, chicken breast is usually just plain ole miserable.

If you’re like us, you’ve tried grilling, baking, poaching…and never quite dialed it in. Before you give up and throw in the towel, try this Air Fryer Chicken Breast. This is on a regular rotation in our home and soon it will be for you, too.

Just like baked chicken breast, this is a great base for so many dishes. Use this as pre-cooked chicken for chicken noodle soup, chicken divan, or top salads and pasta dishes. This would even work for a healthier version of chicken parmesan.

Want more chicken recipes? Try Balsamic Chicken Breasts or Dutch Oven Roasted Chicken

Since this version of air fryer chicken isn’t breaded, it’s not actually fried. Which means there’s no oil, grease, or mess to clean up afterward. Depending on the seasonings you choose, it’s mostly a “clean eating” recipe.

Boneless Skinless Air Fryer Chicken Breast

The great thing about this recipe is that you can use your favorite seasoning, brine, or marinade. Plus, the flavors can be switched up whenever variation is needed, so there’s no need to suffer through plain-jane chicken anymore!

The flavor and texture are similar to grilled chicken but without the charred flavor. The result of this air fryer version is a slightly crisp outside with a smooth, white, tender texture on the inside. It’s easy, simple, and a practical recipe to keep handy.

How to Cook Chicken in an Air Fryer

In a nutshell, here’s how to air fry chicken:

Marinate or season the chicken accordingly.
After the chicken has marinated, transfer the meat to the basket of your air fryer.
Set to temp and cook!

With any chicken recipe, a marinade or seasoning is a must. With this recipe, you can use your favorite marinade or seasoning. I’ve listed a couple of ideas (and products) I’ve used below to make this recipe even more fool-proof.

Ingredients and tools for the best air fryer baked chicken recipe:

Air Fryer (I like my Ninja Foodi)
Tongs
Meat thermometer
Chicken Breast
Seasoning or marinade of your choice (see suggestions below)

Why make this in an air fryer?

If you’re here, you’re already well aware of the qualms with chicken breasts. Chicken breast is known to be dry and bland, which is why an air fryer is a terrific option for preparing chicken.

Air fryers work as small, convection ovens. These appliances use a heating element and a fan to circulate the air around the food, creating an evenly cooked result. The heating element is directly above the food, so it will get a little color, too.

In turn, meats prepared in air fryers are more tender and juicy than from the grill or a conventional oven.

How to Marinate Chicken Breast

Here are a few wet and dry flavoring ideas for this recipe. Place the chicken breast in a zip-top bag, add the seasoning or marinade and refrigerate until you are ready to cook.

Simple Chicken Marinade

Marinating prevents the meat from drying out and gives it flavor. The same can be achieved with a wet brine. For the simplicity of this recipe, I recommend sticking to a marinade and/or a dry seasoning.

Here are a few really great marinade ideas with suggested times. Most of these are premade and store-bought.

Italian dressing. An old reliable option for tender chicken. The oils and vinegars give it a juicy tang in flavor. Marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking, or for up to 3 days.
Dale’s Seasoning. This is a liquid marinade that’s a favorite! It’s great on steaks and pork chops, too. Marinate for no more than 15-20 minutes.
Lawry’s Bottled Marinades. This brand has many varieties, so pick a flavor that compliments the rest of your meal.

Chicken Seasoning Ideas

These are dry seasonings (also called dry rubs). There’s no “marinating” time for these. Feel free to season ahead of time for slightly more flavor. Seasoning right before they hit the air fryer will still yield a flavorful result.

Homemade dry rub. This is my own recipe that I use for chicken wings, brisket, pork chops, or any other grilling meat. It’s a great multi-purpose option.
Taco seasoning. A great idea for Mexican flare. Then, shred the chicken and add to tacos or nachos.
Salt and pepper. A no-fail classic! This is a great option if you are preparing the chicken to be added to a casserole, like Chicken Divan, or a soup.
Seasoned salt. Lawry’s Seasoned Salt is a popular choice. Be cautious with the amount added to the chicken and the salt content.
Italian seasoning. Usually a combination of dried oregano, parsley, and marjoram, these dried herbs provide a lot of flavor. A great option for a non-breaded chicken parmesan.

How long to cook chicken breast in an air fryer

The cooking time depends on the size of the chicken breast and the air fryer unit. Generally, an 8-ounce chicken breast takes about 20 minutes to cook at 385F in the air fryer.

Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken

Spacing the chicken. Make sure the chicken breasts are not overlapping in the air fryer. Depending on the size of the unit and chicken, most air fryers can hold 2-4 breasts at a time.
Use a meat thermometer. A meat thermometer is key to meat that’s cooked perfectly to temperature. Cutting directly into the meat to check for doneness isn’t a sure-fire method and can cause the meat to dry out further.
Timing. Depending on the size of the chicken and your unit, it may cook faster or slower than others. A good gauge in temp increase: For my unit, the temperature increases 15 degrees for every five minutes after flipping.
Resting. Just like with most meats, chicken regains its moisture when it rests after cooking. Allow to rest for about 5 minutes before serving or slicing.
Flavoring. Adding flavoring to the chicken is key. While brining is a great method for juicy grilled, baked, or smoked chicken, it’s not necessary for this recipe. No brining necessary!

Substitutions, reheating, and storage

Reheating: To reheat the chicken, slice or keep whole and microwave at 30 second intervals until warm.
Storing: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Make several pieces, shred, and freeze to easily add to soups, casseroles, or pasta dishes.

More Air Fryer Recipes

See all air fryer recipes here.

Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Course Dinner Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, Chicken, Chicken recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Resting Time 5

Total Time 30

Servings serving

Calories 408kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

1, 8- ounce chicken breast boneless and skinless
Marinade OR 1-3 tablespoons of seasoning see notes for suggestions*

Instructions

Season or marinate chicken according to marinade directions. (use 1-3 tablespoons for dry seasoning)
Turn the unit on to the air fry setting. Preheat the air fryer to 385F for 5 minutes.
Place the chicken in the air fryer basket. Close the lid and cook for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, flip the chicken and cook for another 5-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 165F with a meat thermometer.*
Remove from the air fryer basket and allow to rest for at least 3 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Serve this with:

Substitutions, reheating, and storage

Reheating: To reheat the chicken, slice or keep whole and microwave at 30 second intervals until warm.
Storing: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Make several pieces, shred, and freeze to easily add to soups, casseroles, or pasta dishes.

Marinade and Seasoning Suggestions:

Italian dressing
Dale’s Seasoning
Lawry’s bottled marinade
Homemade dry rub
Taco seasoning
Salt and pepper
Seasoned salt
Italian seasoning

Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken

Spacing the chicken. Make sure the chicken breasts are not overlapping in the air fryer. Depending on the size of the unit and chicken, most air fryers can hold 2-4 breasts at a time.
Use a meat thermometer. A meat thermometer is key to meat that’s cooked perfectly to temperature. Cutting directly into the meat to check for doneness isn’t a sure-fire method and can cause the meat to dry out further.
Timing. Depending on the size of the chicken and your unit, it may cook faster or slower than others. A good gauge in temp increase: For my unit, the temperature increases 15 degrees for every five minutes after flipping.
Resting. Just like with most meats, chicken regains its moisture when it rests after cooking. Allow to rest for about 5 minutes before serving or slicing.
Flavoring. Adding flavoring to the chicken is key. While brining is a great method for juicy grilled, baked, or smoked chicken, it’s not necessary for this recipe. No brining necessary!

Nutrition

The post Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast appeared first on Southern Cravings.