Air fryers have taken home kitchens by storm—and for good reason. They offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying while saving time and reducing mess. With little to no oil, you can achieve crispy textures and deep flavors that rival oven baking or pan frying.
The following top 10 foods are perfect for air frying, not only because they cook evenly and quickly, but also because they’re beginner-friendly. You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to master these dishes—just a little curiosity and an air fryer will do.
1. French Fries
French fries are arguably the most popular item to cook in an air fryer. They cook up wonderfully crisp on the outside while staying soft and fluffy on the inside. Toss them with a small amount of oil and seasoning, and you’ll get restaurant-quality fries without the deep-frying guilt.
This is a great first recipe for any air fryer owner. Whether you’re using fresh-cut potatoes or frozen fries, they’re quick, easy, and satisfying. The air fryer’s circulating heat ensures even browning, making it nearly impossible to mess up. Plus, cleanup is minimal—no greasy oil to deal with.
2. Chicken Wings
If you love crispy chicken wings but dread the mess of frying, the air fryer is your new best friend. It renders the fat from the skin beautifully, giving you perfectly crisp wings with juicy meat inside. You can toss them in any sauce after cooking—Buffalo, BBQ, or garlic parmesan.
Wings are also incredibly forgiving for beginners. They cook evenly without needing constant attention, and the results are consistently delicious. Whether you’re prepping for game day or a casual dinner, air-fried wings deliver flavor and crunch with far fewer calories and much less hassle.
3. Chicken Breast
Chicken breast can be tricky to cook on the stove or in the oven—it often ends up dry or unevenly cooked. In the air fryer, however, it stays juicy and tender thanks to even heat distribution and a shorter cooking time. A simple rub or marinade is all you need for a flavorful result.
This is a fantastic staple for meal prepping or quick weeknight dinners. It’s versatile, healthy, and easy to pair with salads, grains, or veggies. For beginners, it’s a great way to learn how to monitor doneness and experiment with different seasonings without much risk.
4. Bacon
Cooking bacon in an air fryer is a game-changer. It crisps up beautifully without splattering grease all over your stovetop. The air fryer cooks bacon evenly and quickly, and the fat drips away, making it a slightly healthier option.
It’s also incredibly easy to clean up afterwards—most of the grease collects in the bottom tray. For beginners, bacon is a low-effort, high-reward food to try first. You’ll love how hands-off it is compared to pan-frying, and you’ll get perfect strips every time.
5. Salmon Fillets
Salmon can be intimidating to cook, but the air fryer simplifies the process. It locks in moisture while giving the exterior a slight crisp, making it ideal for those who want restaurant-quality fish at home. You can season it simply with lemon and herbs or get creative with glazes.
For beginners, salmon is a fantastic introduction to cooking seafood. It’s fast, forgiving, and full of flavor. The air fryer’s quick cooking time helps prevent overcooking—a common pitfall when baking or pan-searing. Plus, it’s a healthy option packed with omega-3s.
6. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a delicious and nutrient-packed alternative to regular fries. In the air fryer, they crisp up nicely without burning or becoming soggy. A touch of oil and your favorite spices—like paprika or cinnamon—bring out their natural sweetness.
They’re also a great food to experiment with for those new to air frying. You can try different cuts—wedges, shoestrings, or cubes—and adjust time and temperature to get your preferred texture. Sweet potato fries are a hit with both kids and adults, making them a family-friendly choice.
7. Frozen Egg Rolls
Frozen egg rolls are a convenient snack or side dish, and the air fryer makes them extra crispy without needing deep oil baths. They go straight from freezer to fryer with no thawing required, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
The air fryer ensures an even cook, with golden crusts and warm, flavorful interiors. For beginners, frozen egg rolls are a fantastic way to get comfortable with timing and temperature settings. You’ll be amazed at how much better they turn out compared to microwaving or baking.
8. Pork Chops
Pork chops can dry out easily when cooked in a pan or oven, but the air fryer keeps them moist while giving them a flavorful crust. A simple seasoning blend is all you need for a satisfying, protein-packed meal that feels special without being complicated.
They’re a great way to explore air frying meat beyond chicken. Beginners will appreciate how quick and easy pork chops are to prepare, especially when paired with air-fried veggies. With the right thickness and a bit of attention, you’ll have a tender, juicy chop every time.
9. Frozen Chicken Nuggets
Chicken nuggets are a freezer staple in many households, and the air fryer makes them taste freshly fried. They come out golden and crispy in just minutes—no preheating or flipping necessary. This is about as easy as air frying gets.
They’re an ideal starting point for anyone new to air frying. There’s zero prep involved, and results are consistently great. Whether you’re feeding kids or looking for a quick snack, frozen nuggets in the air fryer are a reliable, no-fuss option that never disappoints.
10. Broccoli
Broccoli might seem like an odd choice, but it turns out wonderfully in the air fryer. The florets get slightly crispy on the edges while staying tender inside. A bit of oil, salt, and garlic transforms this veggie into a crave-worthy side dish.
It’s also a great way for beginners to get into air-fried vegetables. Once you try broccoli this way, you’ll want to experiment with other veggies like cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or carrots. It’s fast, healthy, and adds great texture to any meal.
Final Thoughts
The air fryer is much more than a trendy kitchen gadget—it’s a powerful tool that helps you cook smarter, faster, and healthier. For beginners, these 10 foods are the perfect introduction to what an air fryer can do. They’re simple to prepare, hard to mess up, and incredibly satisfying.
