wide-angle view of a professional commercial kitchen with chefs preparing food, featuring a commercial air fryer in use with crispy fries and chicken wings inside

February 12, 2025 Lisa Santorelli

The Most Popular Air Fryer Recipes You Need to Try

If you just got an air fryer and don’t know where to start, don’t worry—you’re not alone! The most popular thing to make? Crispy French fries! Whether in a home or commercial air fryer, fries are the ultimate test of golden perfection. Stick around for more easy, crowd-favourite recipes!

commercial air fryer with an open basket filled with crispy, golden chicken wings, placed on a stainless steel countertop in a professional kitchen

Top Contenders for Most Popular Air Fryer Dish

Crispy Classics

Nothing beats the crunch of a perfectly air-fried classic. French fries take the top spot because they’re simple, delicious, and require hardly any oil. Chicken wings come in as a close second, with crispy skin and juicy meat that rival deep frying without the mess. Onion rings and mozzarella sticks are also big winners, proving that the air fryer is a champion when it comes to crispy, indulgent treats.

Healthier Takes on Favourites

For those wanting a lighter version of their go-to comfort foods, the air fryer delivers. Sweet potato fries bring a touch of sweetness with a crispy bite and added nutrients. Air-fried chicken tenders ditch the heavy breading and excess oil while keeping all the flavour. Even roasted chickpeas have become a go-to, offering a crunchy, protein-packed snack with minimal effort.

Quick & Easy Meals

Air fryers make weeknight meals a breeze. Frozen foods like chicken nuggets and fish fillets crisp up in minutes, making them lifesavers on busy days. Baked potatoes come out with a fluffy inside and a perfectly crisp skin. Even grilled cheese sandwiches or stuffed peppers turn out better, thanks to the even cooking and efficiency of an air fryer.

commercial air fryer with an open basket containing a perfectly toasted grilled cheese sandwich, with melted cheese oozing between golden-brown slices, in a professional kitchen setting

Why These Dishes Are So Popular

Air fryer recipes win people over with their ease, speed, and healthier twist on fried food. They let you enjoy crispy, golden textures without the excess oil. Plus, the versatility of the air fryer means you can cook everything from snacks to full meals without a fuss.

Another reason they’re a hit? Consistently great results. The air fryer’s even heat distribution and shorter cooking times take the guesswork out of cooking. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, these dishes are foolproof and guaranteed to satisfy.

Honourable Mentions

Fries and wings may get all the glory, but plenty of other dishes deserve a shoutout. Air-fried Brussels sprouts and zucchini chips turn out crispy and full of flavour. Egg rolls, dumplings, and even homemade donuts are gaining popularity for their crispy, golden results.

The air fryer isn’t just about making food crispy—it’s about making cooking easier, healthier, and more fun. Whether you're in the mood for a snack, a lighter meal, or a quick dinner, the air fryer has you covered. So go ahead, try out these popular recipes, and see just how game-changing this kitchen gadget can be!