Ninja air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance for making quick and tasty meals. These versatile devices can cook a wide range of foods with little to no oil, resulting in healthier versions of your favorite dishes.
With over 31 delicious recipes to choose from, you’ll find plenty of options to keep your meals interesting and flavorful.
From crispy potatoes and zucchini chips to bang bang salmon and garlic broccoli, there’s something for everyone. You can even use your Ninja air fryer to prepare breakfast, snacks, and desserts.
1. Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Crispy chicken wings are a breeze to make in your Ninja Air Fryer. Start by preheating the air fryer to 390°F for 3 minutes.
Toss your wings with a bit of oil and your favorite seasonings.
Place them in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd.
Cook the wings for 20-24 minutes, shaking the basket 2-3 times during cooking. This ensures even crisping on all sides.
Your wings are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The result? Perfectly crispy wings on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside.
2. Spicy Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
Air fryer buffalo cauliflower is a tasty, healthier twist on buffalo wings. You can make this crispy, spicy snack in your Ninja air fryer in about 20 minutes.
To prepare, cut a head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
Coat them in a mixture of flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, and salt.
Air fry the coated cauliflower at 390°F for about 22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Then toss the crispy florets in buffalo sauce.
Serve your spicy buffalo cauliflower with celery sticks and ranch dressing for dipping. It makes a great appetizer for game day or a low-carb snack anytime.
3. Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Fries
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Fries are a tasty twist on regular fries. You can make them easily in your Ninja Air Fryer.
Start by cutting potatoes into fry shapes.
Soak them in water for 30 minutes, then dry them well.
Toss the fries with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook them in your air fryer at 400°F for about 20 minutes.
Shake the basket halfway through cooking.
When the fries are crispy, sprinkle them with grated Parmesan cheese.
Put them back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese. Add fresh parsley before serving for extra flavor.
4. Honey Glazed Air Fryer Salmon
Honey glazed air fryer salmon is a quick and tasty meal you can make in just 10 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious and healthy.
To make this dish, start by marinating salmon fillets in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
Place the salmon in your air fryer basket lined with foil or parchment paper.
Cook the salmon at 390°F (200°C) for about 7-8 minutes.
Brush more glaze on top and sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the salmon is flaky and cooked through.
Serve your honey glazed salmon with rice or your favorite side dish for a complete meal. This recipe is easy to adjust based on your taste preferences.
5. Air Fryer Blooming Onion
The air fryer blooming onion is a tasty appetizer you can make at home. Start by cutting off the top of a peeled onion and removing the core.
Slice the onion into 8-12 sections, being careful not to cut through the root. This creates the “blooming” effect.
Dip the onion in beaten eggs and coat it with seasoned flour or batter. Place it in your air fryer basket cut-side up.
Cook at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy. The air fryer gives you a crispy outside and tender inside without excess oil.
Serve your blooming onion hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer.
6. Crunchy Air Fryer Fish Tacos
Air fryer fish tacos are a quick and tasty meal you can make in about 15 minutes.
Start by seasoning cod fillets with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and cook the fish for 8-10 minutes until it flakes easily.
While the fish cooks, prepare a simple slaw with coleslaw mix, cilantro, and lime juice.
Warm corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
Once the fish is done, assemble your tacos by placing the crispy fish in the tortillas and topping with the fresh slaw.
These crunchy tacos are a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions. You’ll love the contrast of the crispy fish and cool, tangy slaw.
7. Classic Air Fryer French Toast
You can make delicious French toast in your Ninja Air Fryer.
Start by whisking eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon in a bowl. Dip bread slices in the mixture.
Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (190°C). Line the basket with parchment paper and spray it with cooking oil. Place the coated bread in the basket.
Cook for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes. The French toast should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside.
Serve your air fryer French toast with syrup, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It’s a quick and easy breakfast treat your family will love.
8. Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers
Air fryer stuffed bell peppers make a tasty and simple meal. To start, cut off the tops of bell peppers and remove the seeds.
Fill the peppers with a mixture of cooked ground beef, rice, and seasonings. You can add diced onions and garlic for extra flavor.
Place the stuffed peppers in your Ninja Air Fryer basket. Make sure they fit snugly and won’t tip over.
Cook at 350°F for about 10 minutes. The peppers will become tender while the filling heats through.
For a cheesy topping, sprinkle some shredded cheese on the peppers. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until the cheese melts.
9. Savory Air Fryer Eggplant Fries
Air fryer eggplant fries are a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional fries. They’re crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.
To make them, cut an eggplant into thin strips. Salt the strips and let them drain for 30 minutes. This removes excess moisture.
Next, dip the eggplant in beaten eggs and coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Place the coated strips in your air fryer basket.
Cook at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The fries are done when they’re golden brown and crispy.
Serve these savory eggplant fries as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
10. Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Shrimp
Want a quick and tasty seafood dish? Try lemon pepper air fryer shrimp. It’s ready in just 10 minutes.
To make it, you’ll need large shrimp, olive oil, lemon juice, and spices.
Mix lemon pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a bowl. Add the shrimp and coat them well.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the shrimp in a single layer in the basket.
Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.
The result? Perfectly cooked shrimp with a zesty lemon-pepper flavor. Serve them as an appetizer or main dish. They’re great with rice or salad.
11. Sweet Air Fryer Apple Chips
Air fryer apple chips are a tasty and healthy snack you can easily make at home. Start by slicing apples thinly using a mandolin. Aim for about 1/8 inch thickness.
Spray your air fryer basket with non-stick spray. Lay the apple slices in a single layer, avoiding overlap as much as possible.
Sprinkle the apples lightly with cinnamon or a cinnamon-sugar mix.
Cook at 350°F, checking often to prevent burning.
The chips will crisp up as they cool. For variety, try adding other spices like nutmeg or cardamom. You can also make them less sweet by reducing or skipping the sugar.
12. Mexican Air Fryer Churros
Air fryer churros are a tasty Mexican treat you can make at home. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, just like traditional churros.
To make them, mix water, butter, sugar, and salt in a pan. Bring it to a boil and add flour. Stir until thick, then let it cool.
Pipe the dough into churro shapes and chill them in the fridge. This helps them keep their form in the air fryer.
Cook the churros in your air fryer at 375°F for 15-20 minutes. They’ll turn golden brown.
Roll the hot churros in cinnamon sugar right after cooking. Serve them warm with chocolate sauce for dipping.
13. Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Air fryer chicken parmesan is a tasty and healthier twist on the classic Italian-American dish. You can make crispy, golden-brown chicken with less oil using your Ninja air fryer.
To start, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour and garlic powder, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of panko, parmesan, and Italian seasoning.
Coat the chicken in flour, dip in egg, then cover with the panko mixture. Place the coated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook at 400°F for about 5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through. Add marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese on top for the final minute of cooking.
14. Zesty Air Fryer Zucchini Chips
Zucchini chips are a tasty and healthy snack you can easily make in your Ninja Air Fryer. Start by slicing zucchini thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife.
Toss the slices with a little olive oil and your favorite zesty seasoning mix. Try a blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for extra flavor.
Arrange the zucchini in a single layer in your air fryer basket.
Cook at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
The chips are done when they’re golden brown and crispy. Let them cool slightly before enjoying. These make a great low-carb alternative to potato chips.
15. Tangy Air Fryer BBQ Ribs
You can make delicious BBQ ribs in your Ninja Air Fryer. Start by preheating it to 375°F.
Cut the ribs into portions that fit in the basket. Remove the membrane from the back for extra tenderness.
Season the ribs with your favorite spices. Place them in the air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd.
Cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. In the last 5 minutes, brush on BBQ sauce for a tangy glaze.
Check that the ribs are cooked through before serving. Enjoy your air fryer ribs with your favorite sides.
16. Cinnamon Sugar Air Fryer Donuts
You can make tasty cinnamon sugar donuts in your Ninja Air Fryer in just minutes. Start with premade biscuit dough and cut out donut shapes.
Air fry the donuts at 350°F for 4-6 minutes until golden brown. Flip them halfway through cooking.
When done, dip the warm donuts in melted butter. Then coat them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
These quick air fryer donuts are much easier than deep frying. They come out crispy on the outside and soft inside. Kids love helping make these sweet treats.
17. Maple Bacon Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Air fryer Brussels sprouts with maple and bacon are a tasty side dish. You can make them in about 15 minutes.
Start by mixing Brussels sprouts, bacon pieces, and maple syrup in a bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the mixture into your air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Cook for 8-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This helps everything cook evenly.
The result is crispy Brussels sprouts on the outside and tender inside. The bacon adds a salty crunch, while maple syrup gives a touch of sweetness.
This recipe is faster than oven roasting. It’s a great way to get picky eaters to try Brussels sprouts.
18. Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Crispy, flavorful air fryer buttermilk fried chicken is a healthier take on the classic dish.
Start by marinating chicken pieces in buttermilk, mustard, and spices for at least an hour.
Mix flour with paprika, salt, and pepper in one bowl. In another, combine eggs and buttermilk. Create a third bowl with breadcrumbs and olive oil.
Dip each chicken piece in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
Lightly spray the chicken with oil before air frying.
Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The result is juicy chicken with a crunchy, golden-brown exterior.
Enjoy your guilt-free fried chicken!
19. Mediterranean Air Fryer Falafel
Air fryer falafel offers a healthier twist on this Mediterranean favorite.
You can make crispy falafel balls using canned or soaked chickpeas.
Mix chickpeas with onion, garlic, herbs, and spices in a food processor. Form the mixture into small balls and flatten slightly.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for best results. Lightly spray the basket with oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the falafel for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve your falafel in a wrap with tzatziki sauce and fresh veggies for a tasty Mediterranean meal.
20. Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Air fryer mozzarella sticks are a tasty snack you can make easily in your Ninja air fryer.
Start by coating cheese sticks in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
Place the coated sticks in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Spray them lightly with cooking oil.
Set your air fryer to 350°F and cook for 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent cheese from oozing out.
The result? Crispy, golden-brown mozzarella sticks with melty cheese inside.
Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a yummy treat.
21. Cheesy Air Fryer Broccoli Casserole
You can make a tasty broccoli and cheese casserole in your air fryer.
Start by spraying a 7-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Mix cooked broccoli with cheese sauce and pour into the dish.
Cover the dish with foil and place it in your air fryer.
Cook at 350°F for 5-8 minutes. For extra cheesiness, add more cheddar on top during the last minute of cooking.
This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights. The air fryer gives the casserole a nice texture while keeping the broccoli tender-crisp.
Kids often enjoy this cheesy veggie dish too.
22. Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
Air fryer coconut shrimp is a tasty dish you can make in your Ninja air fryer. It’s quick and easy to prepare.
To make this dish, you’ll need large shrimp, eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and shredded coconut.
Coat the shrimp in egg, then roll them in the coconut mixture.
Set your Ninja air fryer to 375°F. Cook the shrimp for 3-4 minutes, then flip them over. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re golden and crispy.
You can use frozen shrimp too. They may take about 7 minutes total to cook. Just make sure to thaw and coat them before air frying.
This recipe results in crispy, flavorful shrimp that’s perfect as an appetizer or main dish.
23. Herbed Air Fryer Potato Wedges
Air fryer potato wedges are a tasty and easy side dish.
To make them, start by washing and cutting potatoes into wedges.
Mix olive oil with herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Toss the potato wedges in this mixture to coat them evenly.
Preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the wedges in the basket in a single layer.
Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The wedges are done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve your herbed potato wedges hot with your favorite dipping sauce. They make a great snack or side dish for many meals.
24. Air Fryer Avocado Egg Rolls
Air fryer avocado egg rolls are a tasty treat you can make at home. They’re crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.
To make them, mash avocados with diced red onion, sun-dried tomatoes, cilantro, and lemon juice. Spoon this mixture onto egg roll wrappers and roll them up tightly.
Spray the rolls lightly with oil and place them in your air fryer basket.
Cook at 390°F for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll get golden brown, crunchy egg rolls without deep frying.
Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
Serve these as a snack or appetizer. They’re similar to ones you might find at popular restaurants, but healthier since they’re air fried.
25. Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
Air fryer beef empanadas are a tasty snack you can make at home. You’ll need empanada dough, ground beef, and spices.
Cook the beef with onions and seasonings. Fill the dough circles with the meat mixture. Fold and seal the edges.
Spray your air fryer basket with oil. Place empanadas inside without overcrowding.
Cook at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.
The outside will turn golden and crispy. The inside stays juicy and flavorful.
Serve your empanadas hot. They make a great appetizer or quick meal. You can also freeze extras for later.
26. Buffalo Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
Buffalo chicken drumsticks in the air fryer are a tasty and meaty alternative to wings. They make a great meal instead of just an appetizer.
To make them, preheat your Ninja air fryer to 375°F.
Place the drumsticks in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each piece.
Cook for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Brush the drumsticks with buffalo sauce and cook for 2 more minutes.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
These air-fried buffalo drumsticks are a healthier option compared to deep-fried versions. They still have that great buffalo flavor you love, with less oil.
27. Barbecue Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
Barbecue pork tenderloin in your Ninja air fryer is quick and delicious.
Start by seasoning the pork with your favorite spices.
Set the air fryer to 400°F. Cook the tenderloin for 5 minutes to start.
Next, brush BBQ sauce on the pork. Continue cooking for 10-15 minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
The result is juicy pork with a crispy, flavorful exterior. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
This method gives you tender meat with a tasty barbecue crust in less time than traditional cooking.
28. Asian-style Air Fryer Meatballs
Asian-style air fryer meatballs are a tasty twist on a classic dish. They’re quick to make and pack a flavorful punch.
To make these meatballs, mix ground turkey with minced garlic, grated ginger, scallions, and soy sauce. Add an egg and panko breadcrumbs to bind the mixture together.
Roll the meat into balls and place them in your air fryer basket.
Cook at 390°F for about 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Serve these meatballs over rice with a side of edamame for a complete meal.
You can also drizzle them with a savory sauce to enhance the Asian flavors.
29. Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies
You can make tasty chocolate chip cookies in your Ninja Air Fryer. They turn out golden brown with crispy edges and soft centers.
Set your air fryer to 300°F and preheat for 5 minutes.
Use premade dough or make your own with butter, sugar, flour, and chocolate chips.
Shape the dough into small balls and place them in the air fryer basket lined with parchment paper.
Cook for about 7 minutes until the cookies are lightly browned.
Let the cookies cool for a few minutes before enjoying.
This method is great for making a small batch of fresh cookies without heating up your kitchen.
30. Air Fryer Veggie Fritters
Air fryer veggie fritters are a tasty and healthy snack. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
You can make them with various vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or potatoes.
To make these fritters, grate your chosen veggies and mix them with eggs, flour, and seasonings. Form small patties and place them in the air fryer basket.
Cook at 350°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
The fritters will turn golden brown and crispy. Serve them hot with a creamy dip for extra flavor.
These fritters are perfect for using up extra produce. They’re also a great way to get kids to eat more vegetables. Try different veggie combinations to find your favorite.
31. Buffalo Ranch Air Fryer Cauliflower Bites
Buffalo ranch cauliflower bites are a tasty snack you can make in your Ninja air fryer.
Start by preheating the air fryer to 360°F.
Cut a head of cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Place them in the air fryer basket and spray with cooking oil.
Sprinkle buffalo seasoning and ranch seasoning over the cauliflower.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
The cauliflower is done when golden and crispy on the outside.
Serve hot with celery sticks and extra ranch dressing for dipping.
These spicy, tangy bites make a great appetizer or side dish. They’re a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings.
Understanding Ninja Air Fryer Technology
Ninja air fryers use advanced technology to cook food quickly and evenly. They circulate hot air around food and have special features that set them apart from other air fryers.
How Air Circulation Enhances Cooking
Ninja air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food. Hot air moves fast around the food in the basket. This creates a crispy outside and keeps the inside moist.
The circulating air cooks food from all sides at once. This means you don’t need to flip or shake food as much. It also helps food cook faster than in a regular oven.
Air fryers can reach high temperatures quickly. Most Ninja models go up to 400°F. The hot air browns food and creates a crispy texture similar to deep frying.
Unique Features of Ninja Air Fryers
Ninja air fryers have special features that make cooking easier.
Many models have multiple cooking functions. You can air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate in one machine.
Some Ninja air fryers have two cooking zones. This lets you cook two foods at different temperatures at the same time. It’s great for making full meals quickly.
Ninja air fryers often have larger baskets than other brands. This means you can cook more food at once. Many models can fit a whole chicken or up to 3 pounds of fries.
Digital controls make it easy to set the right time and temperature. Some models remember your settings for next time. This helps you get consistent results every time you cook.
Health Benefits of Using an Air Fryer
Air fryers offer a healthier way to enjoy crispy foods. They cut down on oil use and help keep nutrients in your food. Let’s look at two key benefits.
Reduced Oil Consumption
Air fryers need much less oil than deep fryers. You can make crispy fries or chicken with just a tablespoon of oil or less. This means fewer calories from fat in your meals.
Less oil also means less unhealthy trans fats. These fats can raise bad cholesterol and lower good cholesterol.
By using an air fryer, you can still enjoy fried-like foods with much less risk.
Air fried foods have up to 80% less fat than deep fried foods. This big drop in fat can help you manage your weight better. It’s a simple way to cut calories without giving up tasty foods.
Preservation of Nutrients
Air frying helps keep more nutrients in your food. The quick cooking time and lower heat protect vitamins and minerals. This is better than other methods that can destroy nutrients.
Vegetables cooked in an air fryer keep more of their good stuff. Things like vitamin C and antioxidants stay intact.
This means you get more health benefits from your meals.
The air fryer’s speed also helps lock in nutrients. Food cooks fast, so there’s less time for vitamins to break down.
You end up with food that’s not just tasty, but also more nutritious.