When it comes to family dinners, quick lunches, or even a Friday night fake-away, chicken is often at the heart of the meal. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and loved by just about everyone. But if there’s one thing I’ve learnt from cooking chicken in every way possible whether roasting, grilling, frying or baking; nothing quite compares to how good it turns out in the air fryer.
The air fryer has completely transformed the way we cook chicken at home. That magical balance of crispy skin (without gallons of oil) and juicy, tender meat is unbeatable. Whether you’re looking for a speedy midweek dinner, a healthier twist on a takeaway favourite, or a crowd-pleasing recipe for the weekend, the air fryer is your best friend.
In this post, I’m sharing my go-to air fryer chicken recipes. From golden chicken wings to succulent chicken breasts, comforting chicken thighs, and even a full roast chicken, there’s something here for every mood and every appetite. I’ll also share some top tips to make sure your chicken always turns out perfectly.
Why Cook Vegetables in the Air Fryer?
The air fryer uses hot circulating air to cook food, mimicking the results of deep-frying without needing to submerge anything in oil. This method is ideal for vegetables because:
Crispy textures – roast-style results without the long oven time.
Healthier – only a light spray or drizzle of oil is needed.
Faster cooking – most vegetables are ready in under 20 minutes.
Hands-off convenience – set the timer and let the air fryer do the work.
It’s also a brilliant way to get kids (and picky eaters) excited about vegetables. That irresistible crunch can make broccoli or sprouts much more appealing!
Air Fryer Roast Potatoes
Let’s start with a classic. Roast potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, and in the air fryer, they become golden and crisp outside with a fluffy centre in half the oven time.
I like to parboil the potatoes for a few minutes before tossing them in a little oil, salt, and herbs. Rosemary works beautifully here, but thyme or garlic powder are great too. Air fry until golden brown, shaking the basket halfway for even crispiness.
Perfect as a Sunday roast side or alongside a weeknight dinner, these roasties prove the air fryer can handle the simplest of vegetables and make them shine.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts
Brussels sprouts have had a bad reputation for being soggy and bland. Not anymore! Air frying transforms sprouts into something completely different: crispy, caramelised bites with nutty sweetness.
Trim and halve the sprouts, toss in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and cook until the edges are charred and crunchy. For extra flavour, you can drizzle with balsamic glaze or toss with crispy bacon pieces.
They’re so moreish you might find yourself snacking on them straight from the basket.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Roast Carrots
Carrots take on a whole new life in the air fryer. The heat intensifies their natural sugars, giving you tender, caramelised carrots in just 15 minutes.
You can go simple with olive oil, salt, and pepper, or spice them up with cumin, paprika, or a drizzle of honey for sweetness. They’re a perfect side dish for roasts, grilled meats, or vegetarian meals.
I love pairing these with a dollop of Greek yoghurt and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a fresh finish.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Stuffed Aubergine
Aubergines can be tricky to cook well, but the air fryer handles them perfectly. My stuffed aubergine recipe is one of the heartiest vegetable dishes you can make, it’s almost a meal in itself.
The aubergine halves are scooped out and filled with a savoury mixture of herbs, breadcrumbs, cheese, and vegetables. Air frying gives the skins a roasted flavour while keeping the filling bubbling and golden on top.
This dish is fantastic served with a side salad or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired dinner spread.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Stuffed Tomato
Another showstopper is stuffed tomatoes. Using ripe, large tomatoes, you can hollow them out and fill them with a mixture of rice, herbs, or even minced meat if you want a heartier version.
In the air fryer, the tomato skins soften and the filling bakes beautifully without becoming soggy. It’s a great way to make use of seasonal tomatoes and add a burst of colour to your table.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Cauliflower Cheese
Cauliflower cheese is usually a baked comfort food, but it adapts brilliantly to the air fryer. You get the same cheesy, golden crust on top, with the cauliflower tender inside.
I like to steam the cauliflower slightly before covering it with a creamy cheese sauce, then pop it in the air fryer until bubbling and browned on top.
It’s indulgent, yes, but still quicker and lighter than the oven version. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Courgette Kebabs
For something fresh and summery, courgette kebabs are a winner. Simply slice courgettes into rounds or ribbons, thread them onto skewers with other vegetables like peppers and onions, and lightly season.
Air frying gives the vegetables a slightly charred flavour, almost like they’ve been grilled. These kebabs are ideal for barbecues, healthy dinners, or as a fun appetiser.
A squeeze of lemon juice before serving adds brightness and freshness.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Butternut Squash
Butternut squash is naturally sweet and earthy, and the air fryer makes it wonderfully caramelised. Peel and cube the squash, toss with oil and seasoning (I love smoked paprika or cinnamon for warmth), and roast until golden and tender.
It works well as a side dish, mixed into salads, or mashed as a healthier alternative to potatoes. Butternut squash in the air fryer is especially good in autumn and winter. So warm, cosy, and full of flavour.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Veg Slaw
Not every air fryer recipe has to be hot! For something different, try a fresh vegetable slaw. While the slaw itself isn’t cooked, it pairs beautifully with your air-fried creations.
Use a mix of crunchy vegetables like cabbage, carrots, courgette, and peppers, and dress it lightly with yoghurt, lemon, or vinaigrette. The crisp freshness of the slaw balances perfectly with the richness of roasted or cheesy vegetable dishes.
It’s also great for meal prep. You can keep a batch in the fridge and add it to wraps, sandwiches, or as a quick side during the week.
Get the full recipe here.
Tips for Air Frying Vegetables
To get the best results every time, here are a few helpful tips:
Don’t overcrowd the basket – cook in batches if necessary for even crisping.
Shake or turn halfway through – this ensures all sides cook evenly.
Use minimal oil – a spray bottle works best. Too much oil can make vegetables soggy.
Experiment with seasonings – herbs, spices, garlic, parmesan, or even chilli flakes can add variety.
Keep an eye on cooking times – softer veg like courgettes cook much faster than root vegetables.
Final Thoughts
Cooking vegetables in the air fryer isn’t just quick and healthy, it opens up endless flavour possibilities. From the hearty comfort of cauliflower cheese to the bright freshness of courgette kebabs, there’s a dish here for every mood and occasion.
Whether you’re serving a Sunday roast with golden potatoes and caramelised carrots, creating a Mediterranean feast with stuffed aubergines and tomatoes, or preparing cosy autumnal butternut squash, the air fryer has your back.
And the best part? These recipes prove that vegetables don’t have to be an afterthought. With a little creativity and the magic of the air fryer, they can easily take centre stage.
So next time you’re planning dinner, why not make vegetables the star of the show?
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