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    Home » Air Fryer, Instant Pot, & Crock-Pot

    Updated: Jul 12, 2024 · Published: Jul 21, 2022 · by Angela · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    40+ Healthy Air Fryer Recipes

    For easy air fryer recipes that are healthy, this list of ideas has it all. If you just purchased an air fryer and want to make some recipes that are healthier, you are not alone. The good news, it is easy to cook with less oil & fat in an air fryer and the food comes out amazing! These are the perfect recipes to make so you can learn how to cook lighter recipes in the air fryer.

    4 recipe images for acorn squash, chicken drumsticks, frozen fish, and shishito peppers cooked in the air fryer.

    I have a collection of the best recipes for anyone that is new or even experienced with air fryers. There are a variety of simple, quick, & tasty air fryer recipes.

    There is a variety of low-carb, keto, low-calorie, low-fat, diabetic-friendly, vegetarian, vegan, & gluten-free recipes. So whatever your healthy diet or lifestyle is, you will find some of the best air fryer recipes to make & serve.

    Jump to:
    • Best Air Fryer Accessories
    • My Favorite Healthy Air Fryer Recipes
    • Healthy Breakfast Air Fryer Recipes
    • Healthy Snack or Appetizer Air Fryer Recipes
    • Healthy Lunch or Dinner Air Fryer Recipes
    • Healthy Side Dish Air Fryer Recipes

    Best Air Fryer Accessories

    Here are some great accessories that make air frying easier. I have all of these and love these products for use with my Breville Air Fryer Smart Oven. The oil sprayer is a favorite to refill with avocado oil. I also use a quick-read thermometer with so much of my cooking, especially when air frying. There is no better way to make sure your food is cooked to the proper internal temperature for safety.

    200pcs Air Fryer Parchment Paper Disposable Liner 8.5inch, Premium Perforated for Air Fryer, Streamer, Pans, No Burn, Easy Cleanup (Brown)
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    05/13/2025 12:56 pm GMT
    Air Fryer Paper Liners Disposable: 100PCS Round Airfryer Oven Insert Parchment Sheets Grease and Water Proof Non Stick Basket Liners for Baking Cooking from ctizne
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    Air Fryer Paper Liners Disposable: 100PCS Round Airfryer Oven Insert Parchment Sheets Grease and Water Proof Non Stick Basket Liners for Baking Cooking from ctizne
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    05/13/2025 01:40 pm GMT
    Oil Sprayer for Cooking- 200ml Glass Olive Oil Sprayer Mister, Olive Oil Spray Bottle, Kitchen Gadgets Accessories for Air Fryer, Canola Oil Spritzer, Widely Used for Salad Making, Baking, Frying,BBQ4
    $8.20
    Oil Sprayer for Cooking- 200ml Glass Olive Oil Sprayer Mister, Olive Oil Spray Bottle, Kitchen Gadgets Accessories for Air Fryer, Canola Oil Spritzer, Widely Used for Salad Making, Baking, Frying,BBQ4
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    05/13/2025 01:31 pm GMT
    Chosen Foods 100% Pure Avocado Oil, Keto and Paleo Diet Friendly, Kosher Oil for Baking, High-Heat Cooking, Frying, Homemade Sauces, Dressings and Marinades (8.4 fl oz)
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    05/13/2025 11:36 am GMT
    ThermoPro TP03 Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking Kitchen Food Candy Instant Read LCD Thermometer with Backlight and Magnet for Oil Deep Fry BBQ Grill Smoker Thermometer
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    05/12/2025 10:30 pm GMT
    COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt Airfryer, Quick and Easy, UP to 450 , Quiet, 85% Oil less, 130+ Recipes, 9 Customizable Functions, Mini Pizza Oven, Compact, Dishwasher Safe
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    COSORI Air Fryer Pro LE 5-Qt Airfryer, Quick and Easy, UP to 450 , Quiet, 85% Oil less, 130+ Recipes, 9 Customizable Functions, Mini Pizza Oven, Compact, Dishwasher Safe
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    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.
    05/13/2025 12:56 pm GMT

    The Short Order Cook is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission on the sale at no additional cost to you. This helps with the costs of running the blog. Thank you!  

    My Favorite Healthy Air Fryer Recipes

    All of these ideas for air frying include quick healthy recipes. Even if you enjoy something breaded and crispy, cooking in the air fryer makes it lower calories and less fat than if you pan or deep-fried it.

    There are some favorites like french fries, fried fish, and chicken nuggets that are now made better for you thanks to air frying. Or try some of my best air fryer for beginners recipes too.

    Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
    For the ultimate crispy & spicy air fryer buffalo chicken tenders, look no further. Crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside. This easy 20-minute recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your home. The best homemade crunchy breaded chicken & is healthier than fried in oil.
    Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
    Air Fryer Crispy Spicy Buffalo Chicken Tenders plated
    Air Fryer Pork Chops (no breading)
    This quick & easy recipe for air fryer pork chops cooks in 20 minutes. The seasoned thick-cut pork chops are juicy & tender with a caramelized crust. This is the best way to make pork chops without breading in the air fryer. Great for gluten-free, keto, low-carb, and healthy diabetic-friendly diets.
    Air Fryer Pork Chops without Breading
    Air Fryer Pork Chops (no breading) cooked with a dry rub on the crust.
    AIR FRYER FROZEN POPCORN CHICKEN
    Crispy air fryer popcorn chicken is so easy to make using your favorite store-bought frozen popcorn chicken.  It is a family favorite whether it is for an appetizer, snack, football food, lunch, or dinner. 
    Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken
    Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken recipe card plated with fresh parsley and ranch dressing
    Air Fryer Frozen Fish Sticks
    There is no better way to cook frozen fish sticks than the air fryer. The best hot & crispy fish sticks are ready in minutes.
    Air Fryer Frozen Fish Sticks
    Air Fryer Frozen Fish Sticks recipe card plated fish sticks with a small bowl of ketchup
    Air Fryer Frozen Breaded Fish
    There is no better way to cook frozen fish fillets than the air fryer. The best hot & crispy breaded fish is ready in minutes. Quick, easy, & tasty.
    Air Fryer Fish Fillets
    air fried breaded fish on a plate with ranch dip
    Air Fryer Frozen Coconut Shrimp
    The best hot and crispy air fryer frozen coconut shrimp, try this easy recipe. In just a few minutes your favorite appetizer or seafood meal will be cooked to perfection. Great for parties, game day, or dinner.
    Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
    Plated frozen coconut shrimp that has been air fried.
    Air Fryer Frozen Potstickers
    For an easy foolproof method for cooking frozen potstickers in the air fryer, try this recipe. They will be hot on the inside and crispy on the outside. Air frying is an easy way to cook dumplings, gyoza, mandu, and any pork, shrimp, vegetarian, or chicken potsticker.
    Air Fryer Frozen Potstickers
    Air Fryer Frozen Potstickers featured plated with soy dipping sauce
    Air Fryer Frozen Egg Rolls
    Here's an easy recipe for the ultimate air fryer frozen egg rolls. The combination of the flaky crispy egg roll wrapper and the soft savory center can be pretty addicting. Once you air fry frozen egg rolls, you will never cook them any other way.
    If you love egg rolls but prefer to eat a bit healthier and lighter, then air frying is the perfect cooking solution. No deep frying, heavy oils, or greasy exteriors.
    Air Fryer Frozen Egg Rolls
    Air Fryer Frozen Egg Rolls cut and plated.
    Air Fryer Green Beans
    In just 10 minutes, this recipe for crispy air fryer green beans is the best. This simple side dish with few ingredients is quick & easy.
    Air Fryer Green Beans
    Air Fryer green beans plated with fresh lemon.
    Air Fryer Broccolini with Lemon & Parmesan
    Broccolini is crispy thanks to the air fryer. It is all dressed up with fresh lemon & parmesan. This garlicky recipe is savory, salty, & bright with a punch of citrus.  You'll love this Italian-inspired fresh vegetable side dish or appetizer.
    Air Fryer Broccolini
    Platter of air fryer broccolini with lemon and parmesan.
    Air Fryer Acorn Squash
    Air fryer acorn squash slices with a sweet & savory spice blend is a quick & easy side dish. This healthy recipe is seasoned perfectly and tender. The best starchy vegetable recipe for fall or winter.
    Air Fryer Acorn Squash Slices
    Air Fryer Curried Acorn Squash Slices with parsley recipe card plated with fork and red napkin
    Air Fryer Shishito Peppers
    Air fryer shishito peppers char up with crunchy blistered skins for so much flavor. In minutes you have one of the best appetizers. For a sweet, spicy, and smoky bite there is nothing more simple yet delicious as these peppers.
    Air Fryer Shishito Peppers
    Air Fryer Shishito Peppers recipe card plate ready to eat with dip
    Crispy Air Fryer Keto Radishes
    Crispy air fryer keto radishes are the low-carb answer to those that love roasted potatoes. These seasoned radishes are an easy recipe & done in 15 minutes. 
    Air Fryer Crispy Radishes
    Crispy Air Fryer Keto Radishes featured recipe card image overhead of round plate with radishes ready to eat napkin and fork
    Air Fryer Homemade Croutons
    These garlic-seasoned air fryer homemade croutons are so easy to make. In just a few minutes they are hot, crispy, and crunchy. Great for salads, soups, casseroles, & snacking. Made with olive oil & herbs for a healthy vegan option.
    Check out this recipe
    Air fried garlic croutons in a red bowl.
    Crispy Air Fryer Potato Peels
    Transform leftover potato peelings into an amazing snack or appetizer. Crispy air fryer potato peels are salty, crunchy, & addicting. Ribbons of potato skin chips are seasoned & great for dipping. Just 3 ingredients & ready in 15 minutes.
    Air Fryer Crispy Potato Peels
    Crispy Air Fried Potato Skin Peelings in a white bowl next to ketchup for dipping.
    Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
    For the best air fryer baked potatoes, try this quick & easy recipe. In half the time get yummy crispy skin & fluffy hot insides for topping. This simple side dish is an American classic due to its simplicity & versatility. All the steps for time and temperature for air frying plus topping, storing, & reheating.
    Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
    Air Fryer Baked Potatoes with toppings on a plate.
    Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potatoes
    For the best baked sweet potatoes in the air fryer, try this easy recipe. They come out crispy & tender in less time than from the oven.
    Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potatoes
    Two sweet potatoes cut open exposing the orange flesh inside.
    Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins
    The best crunchy air fryer loaded potato skins is this quick & easy recipe. This 30-minute appetizer or side is great for game day, parties, or dinner. Use baked potatoes & stuff with crispy bacon & melted cheddar cheese. Don't forget all the best toppings like sour cream & chives, dips, & more. Including how to bake, scoop, & cook potato skins with time & temperature steps to cook these TGI Friday's copycat recipe to perfection.
    Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins
    Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins Featured plated stuffed bacon cheddar potato skins with sour cream dip.
    Air Fryer Frozen Crinkle French Fries
    For an easy foolproof method for cooking frozen crinkle-cut french fries in the air fryer, try this recipe. They will be hot, crispy, and yummy with just the right amount of time to cook in the air fryer. Plus delicious dips and seasonings to add for the best air fryer french fries.
    Air Fryer Crinkle Fries
    Air Fryer Frozen Crinkle French Fries recipe card plate with ketchup ready to eat
    Air Fryer Frozen Hash Brown Patties
    Cooking frozen hash brown patties in the air fryer is quick and easy. This healthy no oil method results in perfectly crispy on the outside & tender on the inside potatoes every time.
    Air Fryer Hashbrowns
    4 air fried hash brown patties on a white plate
    Air Fryer Frozen Waffles
    Cooking frozen waffles in the air fryer is quick and easy. This recipe makes perfectly crispy on the outside & hot on the inside waffles every time. Great for a busy school day but tasty enough for a big weekend breakfast served with bacon or eggs.
    Air Fryer Frozen Waffles
    plated waffle with butter

    Healthy Breakfast Air Fryer Recipes

    I included several easy air fryer recipes for breakfast in the links above. But here are a few more yummy ideas for that first meal of the day. Both of these are so simple to make, why not do both!

    Air Fryer Turkey Bacon
    For crispy bacon that is healthy, try some turkey bacon in the air fryer.
    Air Fryer Turkey Bacon
    Plated air fryer turkey baacon with eggs and avocado
    AIr Fryer Eggs
    Whether you want hard or soft-boiled, cooking them in the air fryer couldn't be easier. Make a large batch to have for breakfast, salads, snacks, and more.
    AIr Fryer Eggs
    4 eggs cut in half exposing the cooked yolk.

    Healthy Snack or Appetizer Air Fryer Recipes

    These quick munchie recipes are a great way to learn to use your air fryer. They are all easy to make and guilt-free. So make a lot and enjoy. So whether you are having a party or need something to hold you off until the next meal, make these healthy appetizers in your air fryer.

    Air Fryer Tofu Cubes
    Nooch encrusted tofu cubes are diced and air fried for a crispy snack. Pop these in your mouth and enjoy the soft insides and yummy crust.
    Air Fryer Tofu Cubes
    A bowl of nooch encrusted air fryer tofu cubes.
    Air Fryer Calamari (No Batter)
    This crunchy grain-free appetizer is keto & low-carb approved. Calamari rings with coconut flour and seasoning are a tasty appetizer any seafood lover will enjoy.
    Air Fryer Calamari
    Plated air fried calamari rings with a dipping sauce.
    Air Fryer Salsa
    Salas from the air fryer, yes! Roast up the ingredients by air frying and add so much flavor to this perfect appetizer.
    Air Fryer Salsa
    Air fryer salsa in a bowl served with chips.
    Air Fryer Cheesy Cauliflower Balls
    Cheesy cauliflower balls pack a ton of flavor in each of these crispy air-fried bites. With only 1 carb each and about 50 calories, this appetizer is almost too good to be true.
    Air Fryer Cheesy Caulifllower Balls
    Plated balls of air fried cheesy cauliflower balls.
    Air Fryer Cajun Snap Peas
    Spice up your life with this air fryer snack. A few simple ingredients make these cajun spiced snap peas irresistible.
    Air Fryer Cajun Snap Peas
    A white bowl with snap peas seasoned and air fried.
    Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs
    Homemade turkey meatballs air fried for a juicy tender inside and a crust that is crunchy and delish. Add a dipping sauce and these are fantastic for lunch, dinner, or an appetizer.
    Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs
    White bowl piled with air fried turkey meatballs and a dipping sauce.

    Healthy Lunch or Dinner Air Fryer Recipes

    Making a hot lunch or dinner that is light & healthy has never been easier thanks to the air fryer. Whether you want a warm sandwich or something more hearty, try one of these recipes. These easy recipes are wonderful for lunch or dinner. So get that air fryer warmed up and get cooking.

    Air Fryer Tilapia
    In 15 minutes a healthy seafood dinner is ready. This seasoned tilapia is air-fried until flaky & perfect.
    Air Fryer Tilapia
    Air fried tilapia plated with a slice of lemon and a side dish.
    Air Fryer Walleye
    This air-fried walleye filet is keto-approved. The grain-free crust is made from pork rings for a crunchy bite without gluten or flour.
    Air Fryer Walleye
    Air Fryer Walleye plated.
    Air Fryer Turkey Burger
    Fresh ground turkey makes the best healthy burgers. Try air fryer turkey burgers the next time you have a craving.
    Air Fryer Turkey Burger
    A turkey burger on a bun with all the toppings.
    Air Fryer "grilled" Chicken
    For juicy chicken, the air fryer can get it done without having to prep a grill. This Air Fryer Chicken is great for lunch or dinner, especially added to a salad.
    Air Fryer "grilled" Chicken
    Plated pieces of air fryer chicken pieces.
    Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
    Looks at that crispy charred skin on these air fryer chicken drumsticks. There is so much flavor with these seasoned drumsticks that are a family favorite.
    Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
    Plated charred chicken drumsticks from the air fryer.
    Air Fryer Zucchini Boats
    This air fryer recipe for zucchini boats is so versatile. You can change up the stuffing to have meat or even a vegetarian version - all are amazing!
    Air Fryer Zucchini Boats
    Zucchini hollowed out and filled with meat and cheese.
    Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks
    For a vegan main dish in the air fryer, there is no better recipe. The turmeric, garlic, lemon, and more add a kick of flavor to these cauliflower steaks that is hearty and satisfying.
    Air Fryer Cauliflower Steaks
    Large cauliflower steaks plated and ready to eat.

    Healthy Side Dish Air Fryer Recipes

    One of the easiest ways to enjoy a healthy diet is to make scrumptious side dishes. These recipes are filling and most make the vegetables the star of the dish. Convert your fresh harvest from home into an amazing recipe. There is no better way to cook with your air fryer for a healthier meal than with these recipes. Keeping side dish recipes easy is what can make or break your meal.

    Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
    No more boiling water to get yummy summer corn that is delicious. Air fryer corn on the cob is so easy and will be your new favorite way to cook it.
    Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
    Plated ears of corn sprinkled with parsley.
    Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms
    These garlic butter seasoned portobello mushroom caps are air-fried to perfection. In just a few minutes this savory side dish is ready.
    Air Fryer Portobello Mushrooms
    Plated portobello mushrooms that have been air fried.
    Air Fryer Beets
    Rich and earthy beets become sweet & crispy in the air fryer. This unique way to cook fresh beets makes for the ultimate healthy, paleo-approved, and divine side dish.
    Air Fryer Beets
    White bowl filled with air fryer beets ready to eat.
    Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
    Perfectly soft and tender sweet potatoes without the heat of the oven are a dinnertime favorite. Air fryer sweet potatoes are a healthy side dish or even vegan main dish that is ready for your favorite toppings.
    Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes
    A sweet potato plated and topped with a pat of butter.
    Air Fryer Squash & Zucchini
    Two great vegetables in one amazing air fryer side dish recipe. This colorful combination of yellow squash and green zucchini with fresh herbs is a summer favorite.
    Air Fryer Squash & Zucchini
    A square bowl piled high with slices of air fryer squash.
    Air Fryer Artichokes
    In 10 minutes these air fryer artichokes are ready to enjoy. This recipe is much faster than boiling or grilling and has all the flavor you love in this side dish.
    Air Fryer Artichokes
    Artichokes cut in half and plated, ready to eat.
    4 recipe images for air fryer squash, turkey meatballs, sweet potato and keto calamari.
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    Hi, I'm Angela I’m Angela, a petite mom that loves to cook, eat, drink, & explore all things food. As a former personal chef & caterer, I specialize in family recipes that taste great & are easy to make. I rely on my trusty stool every day to create & test recipes I know you will love.

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