Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for a healthier option when it comes to cooking for your kids? Look no further! The air fryer is a game-changer when it comes to making delicious and nutritious meals that kids will love. With its ability to cook food quickly and evenly without adding extra oil, the air fryer is an ideal tool for busy parents looking to serve up tasty and healthy meals.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 fun and easy air fryer recipes that are perfect for kids. From classic favorites like chicken tenders and mozzarella sticks to sweet treats like banana bread bites and cinnamon sugar donut holes, there’s something for every kid on the block. And the best part? These recipes are quick, easy, and require minimal cleanup – a win-win for parents!
Stay tuned for our top 20 air fryer recipes for kids that will make mealtime a breeze.
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe
Transform your favorite pub snack into a healthier, crispy delight with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip chicken tenders in the beaten egg, then coat evenly with the flour mixture.
4. Dredge coated tenders in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each tender.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the tenders and cook for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Mini Pizza Bites
These bite-sized pizza treats are perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer. With the help of your Air Fryer, you can create crispy crusts and gooey cheese in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini pizza crusts (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: pepperoni slices, diced bell peppers, olives
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the mini pizza crusts and place them in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket.
3. Top each crust with marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. Add optional toppings if desired.
5. Cook for 6-8 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Sweet Potato Air Fryer Fries
Transform regular fries into a sweet and crispy delight with this simple recipe using air fryer technology. Perfect as a snack or side dish, these Sweet Potato Air Fryer Fries are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g. paprika, garlic powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into long, thin strips (like regular fries).
3. In a bowl, toss the sweet potato strips with salt, black pepper, and olive oil until they’re evenly coated.
4. Load the sweet potato strips into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until crispy, shaking halfway through.
6. Remove from the air fryer and sprinkle with additional seasonings (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and cheesy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 mozzarella cheese sticks
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plain or flavored)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each mozzarella stick into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated sticks in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with additional seasonings (if using).
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes per batch
Homemade Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Get crispy and juicy chicken nuggets without deep-frying! This recipe uses simple ingredients and a few basic steps to create a delicious snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon buttermilk (or regular milk)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, then the beaten egg, and finally coat in the flour mixture again.
3. Place coated nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray with cooking spray or oil.
4. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Banana Bread Bites
Transform your favorite banana bread into bite-sized, crispy treats with this easy Air Fryer recipe! Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine mashed bananas, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and cinnamon (if using). Mix until smooth.
4. Using a spoon or piping bag, drop small balls of the mixture into the Air Fryer basket, leaving space for air circulation.
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes, shaking halfway through. Bites are done when golden brown.
6. Serve warm, dust with powdered sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Cheesy Air Fryer Quesadillas
Get ready to elevate your snack game with this simple and satisfying recipe that combines the comfort of quesadillas with the crispy goodness of air frying. This cheesy delight is perfect for a quick lunch, after-school snack, or as a fun appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together 1 cup shredded cheese, cilantro, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the air fryer basket and sprinkle half of the cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Apple Chips
Say goodbye to soggy apple snacks and hello to crispy Air Fryer apple chips! With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and healthy snack that’s perfect for snacking on the go.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples (any variety, but firmer apples like Granny Smith work best)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin chips.
3. In a bowl, mix together apple slices and lemon juice. Add cinnamon if desired.
4. Load the apple mixture into the Air Fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each chip.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C), shaking the basket halfway through.
6. Check for crispiness; if not done, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
Air Fryer French Toast Sticks: A Sweet Breakfast Twist
Start your day with a delicious and crispy twist on traditional French toast. These Air Fryer French Toast Sticks are perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Cooking spray or oil for the Air Fryer
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together milk, egg, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Dip each bread slice into the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Place the coated bread slices in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket.
4. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown, shaking halfway through.
5. Remove from the Air Fryer and serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Crunchy Air Fryer Fish Sticks
Looking for a healthier take on traditional fish sticks? This recipe uses air-frying to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior, with minimal oil and effort!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or tilapia fillets, cut into strips
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., paprika, garlic powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each fish strip into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated fish sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these bite-sized treats! These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are an easy and delicious dessert that can be enjoyed any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated biscuit or croissant dough (about 12-15 pieces)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the biscuit or croissant dough into small balls, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Dip each donut hole into the melted butter, then roll in the sugar mixture to coat.
5. Place coated donut holes in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes per batch
Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this easy and delicious recipe that uses an Air Fryer to achieve a crispy, melted masterpiece.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1-2 slices of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite variety)
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Butter or spray one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the Air Fryer basket.
4. Place cheese on top of the bread, followed by the second bread slice, buttered side up.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Air Fryer Veggie Spring Rolls
Transform your favorite spring rolls into a crispy, healthier snack with the help of an air fryer! This recipe yields delicious and addictive veggie spring rolls that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the produce section or international aisle)
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and cabbage)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the mixed vegetables, shredded coconut, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper flat on a surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up into a tight cylinder. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Cook the spring rolls in batches if necessary, placing them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these soft and chewy Air Fryer chocolate chip cookies, perfect for a quick dessert or snack. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
6. Fold in chocolate chips.
7. Place tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the Air Fryer basket, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Air Fryer Corn Dog Bites
Say goodbye to traditional corn dogs and hello to bite-sized, crispy treats that are easy to make and fun to eat! These Air Fryer Corn Dog Bites combine the sweetness of cornmeal with the savory flavor of hot dogs in a tasty morsel.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini hot dogs
– 1 cup of cornmeal
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon of milk
– Vegetable oil spray for the air fryer
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Dip each hot dog into the beaten egg and then roll in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated hot dogs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Spray with vegetable oil spray.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Transform zucchinis into a delicious snack with this easy recipe. By air frying them with parmesan cheese and herbs, you’ll enjoy a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis into long strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, toss the zucchini slices with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Load the zucchini fries into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the zucchinis.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Remove from the air fryer and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Peanut Butter Banana Roll-Ups
A sweet and indulgent treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of peanut butter, all wrapped up in a crispy Air Fryer snack. Perfect for a quick dessert or healthy-ish snack!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– Cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey (if using).
3. Slice bananas into 1-inch pieces.
4. Place a piece of banana at one end of the puff pastry sheet, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Spread about 1/2 teaspoon of peanut butter mixture onto the banana.
6. Roll up the pastry tightly but gently, starting from the banana end.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Cook in the Air Fryer for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs
Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs: A Delicious and Healthy Twist on a Classic Favorite!
Are you looking for a healthier take on traditional meatballs? Look no further! These air-fried turkey meatballs are made with lean protein, flavorful herbs, and a hint of spice. They’re perfect as an appetizer or added to your favorite pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for air fryer
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Air Fryer Rainbow Veggie Chips
Add some excitement to your snack time with this vibrant recipe that combines the health benefits of veggie chips with the convenience of air frying. This colorful treat is perfect for kids and adults alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled
– 1 large beetroot, peeled
– 1 large carrot, peeled
– 1/2 large red bell pepper, seeded
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Additional seasonings of your choice (e.g., garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the sweet potato, beetroot, carrot, and red bell pepper into thin slices.
3. In a bowl, toss the vegetable slices with olive oil and salt until evenly coated.
4. Load the vegetables in batches into the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until crispy and golden brown, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes per batch
Air Fryer S’mores Pockets
Take your s’mores game to the next level with these Air Fryer S’mores Pockets. In just 5 minutes, you can have gooey marshmallows and chocolatey goodness wrapped in a crispy graham cracker pocket.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of graham crackers
– 12-15 marshmallow treats (such as Dandies or Jet-Puffed)
– 6 ounces of milk chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F.
2. Cut graham crackers into squares or rectangles, depending on your desired pocket shape.
3. Place a marshmallow treat in the center of each cracker square.
4. Top with a small piece of chocolate and fold the crackers to form a pocket.
5. Brush the tops with melted butter and place in the Air Fryer basket.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 fun and healthy air fryer recipes that kids will love! From crispy chicken tenders to sweet potato fries, these easy-to-make dishes are perfect for families. Enjoy tasty treats like mini pizza bites, mozzarella sticks, and cinnamon sugar donut holes. Plus, try out healthier options like veggie spring rolls, parmesan zucchini fries, and rainbow veggie chips. And don’t forget about breakfast favorites like air fryer French toast sticks and grilled cheese sandwiches. With these recipes, you’ll be a hit with the kids and they’ll never even know how healthy they’re eating!
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