17 Air Fryer Dishes That Go Way Beyond French Fries

Crispy snacks are just the start when using that kitchen tool. With 17 air fryer dishes that go way beyond French fries, it’s easy to make simple food feel more exciting. A quick cook can turn into something that looks ready for any table.

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Low angle shot of an air fried whole chicken. — Air Fryer Whole Chicken. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Even cooking makes this ready for slicing in no time. The Air Fryer Whole Chicken serves well as a main centerpiece for any table. Works without needing to turn on the oven.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Four bundles of asparagus wrapped in crispy bacon are arranged on a white plate placed on a wooden serving board. — Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Crisp layers and tender bites make this a quick favorite. The Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus plates neatly and looks good for any occasion. Works well as a side or light snack.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings (Easy & Crispy!)

A plate of seasoned, baked chicken wings surrounds a bowl of creamy dipping sauce, displayed on a patterned tablecloth. — Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings (Easy & Crispy!). Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Crisp skin and a light seasoning make this a go-to for gatherings. The Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings (Easy & Crispy!) are easy to serve and share. Perfect for casual meals or game day spreads.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings (Easy & Crispy!)

Easy Air Fryer Tuna Steak (Fresh Ahi Tuna Steak)

Perfectly air-fried ahi tuna steaks with greens and lemon slices on a plate. — Easy Air Fryer Tuna Steak (Fresh Ahi Tuna Steak). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Firm outside with a soft center makes this a balanced dish. The Easy Air Fryer Tuna Steak (Fresh Ahi Tuna Steak) looks restaurant-ready without the wait. Works for lunch or dinner in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Tuna Steak (Fresh Ahi Tuna Steak)

Air Fryer Halloumi

Light browning and a firm texture make this a versatile dish. The Air Fryer Halloumi holds its shape and works in many different meals. Easy to plate for a neat and simple presentation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Halloumi

Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Maple Baked Apples

Four baked apples filled with a mixture of oats, nuts, and spices, topped with cream and caramel sauce, set on a dark surface with scattered granola. — Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Maple Baked Apples. Photo credit: xoxobella.

Gentle sweetness and a soft texture make this perfect for mornings or after dinner. The Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Maple Baked Apples look like they took more time than they did. Great for a quick comfort dish.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Maple Baked Apples

Air Fryer Calzones

Glass plate with a calzone, marinara in a bowl, and zucchini. — Air Fryer Calzones. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Golden on the outside and filled inside, this feels fresh from a shop. The Air Fryer Calzones hold their shape and are easy to handle. Great for quick meals or handheld snacks.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Calzones

Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

A close-up of several pieces of breaded and fried shrimp stacked on a wooden surface. — Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Crisp outside with a hint of sweetness makes this stand out. The Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp works for casual meals or shared platters. Quick to arrange for serving.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

Air Fryer Caprese Chicken

Chicken Caprese with tomato and basil on a blue plate. — Air Fryer Caprese Chicken. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Moist texture and clean presentation make this perfect for any plate. The Air Fryer Caprese Chicken works for a light lunch or a full dinner. Easy to pair with simple sides.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Caprese Chicken

Air Fryer Filet Mignon

Tender texture and even cooking make this fit for special meals. The Air Fryer Filet Mignon comes out looking like it was cooked by a pro. Simple to slice and plate neatly.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Filet Mignon

Air Fryer Eggplant

Soft inside with a light exterior crisp makes this stand out. The Air Fryer Eggplant works for a range of meals without much effort. Looks great served as slices or cubes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Eggplant

Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Small size and quick cooking make this a flexible choice. The Air Fryer Salmon Bites have a light exterior and a flaky inside. Easy to serve as a snack or part of a meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Air Fryer Parsnips

Natural sweetness and a clean finish give this side an easy appeal. The Air Fryer Parsnips turn out with a pleasant texture every time. Fits easily alongside many other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Parsnips

Fried Marinated Tofu

A bowl of soup with a spoon in it. — Fried Marinated Tofu. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Crisp edges and a tender bite make this a strong choice for quick meals. The Fried Marinated Tofu looks clean and well-prepared straight from the fryer. Works well as a side or the main part of a plate.
Get the Recipe: Fried Marinated Tofu

Air Fryer BBQ Ribs - Best Dry Rib Rub

Cooked and sliced pork ribs with a glazed finish on parchment paper. — Air Fryer BBQ Ribs - Best Dry Rib Rub. Photo credit: xoxobella.

Deep flavor and a crisp surface make this a solid main dish. The Air Fryer BBQ Ribs - Best Dry Rib Rub can look like they were cooked outdoors. Easy to cut and serve for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Ribs - Best Dry Rib Rub

Air Fryer Zucchini

Quick cooking keeps this light while still feeling complete. The Air Fryer Zucchini comes out tender and ready for any plate. Works just as well alone as it does with other food.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Zucchini

Air Fryer Panko Shrimp

Golden coating and a soft center make this a crowd favorite. The Air Fryer Panko Shrimp works well for starters or as part of a meal. Simple to arrange neatly on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Panko Shrimp