If you’ve recently acquired an air fryer and you’re wondering about the best meats to cook in it, then you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll explore the wide range of meat options that can be perfectly cooked in an air fryer, from juicy chicken breasts to flavorful pork chops and even crispy bacon. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds as we provide expert advice on selecting the ideal cuts of meat and share some mouthwatering recipes that will make your air fryer your new best friend in the kitchen.
Chicken
Breasts
Chicken breasts are a versatile and popular choice for cooking in an air fryer. They are lean and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to stir-fries. Air frying chicken breasts ensures they come out juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. You can marinate them beforehand or season them with your favorite spices for added flavor.
Drumsticks
If you’re a fan of moist and flavorful meat, then air frying chicken drumsticks is a great option. Whether you prefer to eat them on their own or as part of a larger meal, drumsticks always bring a delicious twist to the table. The air fryer helps to render the fat, resulting in a crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Thighs
Chicken thighs are known for their rich and succulent flavor. Air frying chicken thighs is a fantastic way to achieve a crispy skin while keeping the meat incredibly moist and flavorful. They work well with a variety of seasonings and are perfect for those who enjoy a slightly higher fat content in their meat.
Wings
Air-fried chicken wings are a game-day favorite for many. The air fryer provides the perfect environment to achieve that desired crispy texture, while still maintaining the juicy meat inside. Whether you like your wings spicy, sweet, or tangy, the air fryer can help you achieve that perfect bite.
Whole Chicken
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to cook a whole chicken in an air fryer, go for it! Air frying a whole chicken can result in a beautifully golden and flavorful bird. It’s important to note that cooking a whole chicken in an air fryer may require a longer cooking time compared to using traditional methods. However, the end result is worth the wait – tender meat with a crispy skin.
Pork
Chops
Pork chops are a versatile cut of meat that work wonderfully in an air fryer. Air frying pork chops allows you to enjoy tender and juicy meat with a perfectly crispy exterior. You can season them with your favorite herbs and spices, or marinade them beforehand for added flavor. With the air fryer, you can achieve a delicious meal without excessive grease or oil.
Tenderloin
Pork tenderloin is a lean and tender cut of meat that works exceptionally well in an air fryer. It cooks quickly and evenly, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish. Whether you choose to season it simply or marinate it beforehand, air frying pork tenderloin is a hassle-free way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.
Ribs
While traditionally, ribs are slow-cooked or grilled, air frying them can yield surprisingly delicious results. Air frying ribs can result in tender meat with a caramelized and slightly crispy exterior. You can rub them with your favorite dry rub or baste them with a tangy BBQ sauce for extra flavor. Though air frying may not produce the exact same results as slow cooking or grilling, it offers a convenient alternative for those who want to enjoy ribs without the lengthy cooking time.
Bacon
Yes, you read that correctly. You can air fry bacon! Cooking bacon in an air fryer can be a game-changer. It eliminates the need for constant flipping and reduces the amount of grease splatter. Air frying bacon results in crispy and evenly cooked strips that are perfect for breakfast sandwiches or to crumble on top of salads or soups.
Sausages
Sausages are a popular choice for air frying. Whether you prefer breakfast sausages or Italian sausages, the air fryer can cook them to perfection. Air frying sausages results in crispy skin and juicy meat, without the need for excessive oil or turning them multiple times. It’s a quick and hassle-free way to enjoy a tasty sausage.
Beef
Steak
Air frying steak may not be the first method that springs to mind, but it can produce fantastic results. For thinner cuts like a skirt or flank steak, air frying can give you a deliciously seared exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Thicker cuts like ribeye or filet mignon may not achieve the same level of doneness throughout, but they can still be cooked to your desired preference. Experimenting with different cuts and cooking times can help you find your perfect air-fried steak.
Burgers
Air frying burgers is a convenient way to achieve a juicy patty with a flavorful crust. You can use pre-made burger patties or shape your own using ground beef. Season them with your preferred spices, place them in the air fryer, and let it work its magic. Air frying burgers also offers the advantage of reducing excess oil or grease compared to pan-frying.
Roast
While traditionally, roasts are cooked in the oven, air frying can produce a delicious and tender beef roast as well. It’s important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size of the roast and the type of beef used. You can season the roast with herbs and spices, or opt for a marinade to infuse it with flavor. Air frying a roast can provide a convenient and efficient cooking method, resulting in a juicy and flavorful centerpiece for your meal.
Meatballs
Air frying meatballs is a fantastic way to achieve a crispy exterior while retaining a moist and tender interior. Whether you’re making traditional Italian meatballs or experimenting with different flavors, the air fryer can help create a delicious finished product. Just place them in the air fryer and let it do the work, no need for constant flipping or turning.
Ground Beef
Using ground beef in an air fryer opens up endless possibilities. From meatloaf to stuffed peppers, the air fryer can handle it all. Ground beef cooked in an air fryer results in a well-browned exterior while keeping the interior juicy and flavorful. It’s a convenient and efficient method for cooking ground beef without excessive grease or oil.
Lamb
Chops
Lamb chops are a tender and flavorful cut of meat that works wonderfully in an air fryer. Air frying lamb chops can yield a caramelized and slightly crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and succulent. Season them with herbs and spices of your choice, or marinade them before cooking, to enhance the flavors. Air frying lamb chops offers a quick and hassle-free way to enjoy a delicious lamb dish.
Leg
Lamb leg is a larger cut that can also be cooked in an air fryer. It’s important to note that cooking times may be longer due to the size and thickness of the meat. However, air frying a lamb leg can still result in tender and flavorful meat with a well-browned exterior. You can season it with herbs, spices, or even garlic and rosemary for a classic Mediterranean flavor.
Rack
For a show-stopping dish, consider air frying a rack of lamb. While traditionally, racks of lamb are roasted or grilled, air frying can provide an alternative method with equally delicious results. Season the rack with a flavorful rub or coat it in breadcrumbs for an added crunch. Air frying a rack of lamb can give you a succulent and tender meat with a beautifully browned crust.
Koftas
Koftas are a popular Middle Eastern and Indian dish made from ground lamb. Air frying lamb koftas can give you a well-browned and flavorful exterior while keeping the inside moist and juicy. You can mix in various spices, herbs, and even vegetables to create a unique and delicious kofta recipe. Air frying koftas is a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying, without sacrificing on taste.
Ground Lamb
Ground lamb can be used in a variety of dishes, from kebabs to stuffed peppers. Air frying ground lamb allows you to achieve a deliciously browned exterior while keeping the inside moist. You can season it with your preferred spices and herbs, or mix it with other ingredients to create flavorful patties or meatballs. Cooking ground lamb in an air fryer can provide a convenient and efficient cooking method.
Fish
Salmon
Cooking salmon in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy this nutritious and flavorful fish. Air frying salmon can result in a perfectly crispy skin while keeping the flesh moist and tender. You can marinate the salmon beforehand or simply season it with herbs and spices of your choice. Air frying salmon offers a healthier alternative to traditional pan-frying, with less oil and mess.
Tilapia
Tilapia is a mild and delicate fish that is well-suited for air frying. Air frying tilapia can result in a light and crispy exterior while maintaining the moist and flaky texture inside. You can season it with a variety of herbs and spices or coat it with breadcrumbs for added crunch. Air frying tilapia is a hassle-free method that allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without the need for excessive oil or grease.
Shrimp
Air frying shrimp can give you a satisfyingly crispy exterior and a tender and juicy interior. Whether you’re looking to make coconut shrimp or spicy buffalo shrimp, the air fryer can handle it all. Season the shrimp with your preferred spices or use a marinade for extra flavor. Air frying shrimp offers a healthier alternative to deep-frying, resulting in a delightful appetizer or main dish.
Scallops
Scallops are a delicacy that can be cooked to perfection in an air fryer. Air frying scallops can give you a beautifully caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender and succulent. Season them simply with salt and pepper, or experiment with different marinades for added flavor. Air frying scallops offers a convenient and efficient cooking method, as they cook quickly and require minimal preparation.
Fish Fillets
Air frying fish fillets is a reliable and efficient method to achieve crispy and flavorful results. Whether you’re working with cod, halibut, or sole, the air fryer can help you achieve a beautifully browned crust while keeping the fish moist and flaky. Season the fillets with your favorite herbs and spices, or coat them in breadcrumbs for added texture. Air frying fish fillets offers a healthy and convenient way to enjoy your favorite seafood dishes.
Seafood
Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are a delicious and indulgent treat that can be air-fried to perfection. Air frying crab cakes allows you to achieve a wonderfully crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. Whether you prefer a classic Maryland-style crab cake or a unique blend of herbs and spices, the air fryer can help you create a mouthwatering dish. Cooking crab cakes in an air fryer reduces the amount of oil required and results in a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
Lobster Tails
Air frying lobster tails is a convenient and efficient method to achieve a restaurant-quality dish. Lobster tails can be air-fried to perfection, resulting in succulent and flavorful meat. Whether you choose to season the tails with simple butter and herbs or experiment with different marinades, the air fryer can help you create a memorable seafood feast. Air frying lobster tails also eliminates the need for boiling or grilling, saving you time and effort.
Calamari
Air frying calamari offers a quick and hassle-free way to enjoy this beloved seafood appetizer. Whether you prefer traditional fried calamari or a healthier version, the air fryer can accommodate both. Lightly coat the calamari in flour or breadcrumbs, season it with your favorite spices, and place them in the air fryer for a crispy and tender result. Air frying calamari reduces the amount of oil required and provides a simple and efficient cooking method.
Mussels
Air frying mussels may seem unconventional, but it can yield surprisingly delicious results. While typically steamed or baked, air frying mussels can provide a unique twist to this seafood favorite. Toss the mussels in a flavorful sauce or seasoning, place them in the air fryer, and let them cook until they open up and are cooked through. Air frying mussels can result in a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining the natural briny flavor of the seafood.
Squid
Air frying squid is a fantastic way to achieve tender and crispy calamari rings. Whether you prefer thick rings or thin strips, the air fryer can handle both. Coat the squid in a light batter or breadcrumbs, season it with your preferred spices, and let the air fryer work its magic. Air frying squid offers a healthier alternative to deep-frying, resulting in a delicious and satisfying appetizer or main dish.
Turkey
Breast
Air frying turkey breast offers a convenient and efficient way to cook this poultry favorite. Whether you’re cooking a whole turkey breast or individual turkey cutlets, the air fryer can handle it. Season the turkey breast with herbs and spices or marinate it beforehand for added flavor. Air frying turkey breast can result in a slightly crispy skin and juicy meat, without the need for excessive oil or lengthy cooking times.
Legs
Air frying turkey legs can provide a delightful alternative to roasting or deep-frying. Whether you’re making drumsticks or turkey thighs, the air fryer can help you achieve a crispy and well-seasoned exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Season the turkey legs with your favorite spices, place them in the air fryer, and let them cook until they reach the desired doneness. Air frying turkey legs offers a convenient and efficient method to cook this poultry favorite.
Wings
Similar to chicken wings, air-fried turkey wings can be a flavorful and satisfying appetizer or main dish. Air frying turkey wings allows you to achieve a crispy skin while keeping the meat moist and tender. You can season the wings with a variety of spices or coat them in your favorite sauce for added flavor. Air frying turkey wings offers a healthier alternative to deep-frying, without compromising on taste.
Ground Turkey
Ground turkey is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. From meatballs to chili, the air fryer can help you cook ground turkey to perfection. Season the ground turkey with your preferred spices, shape it into patties or meatballs, and let them cook in the air fryer until they are browned and cooked through. Air frying ground turkey is a quick and efficient method, offering a healthier alternative to pan-frying.
Turkey Burgers
Air frying turkey burgers offers a convenient and healthier alternative to grilling or pan-frying. Whether you’re using pre-made turkey burger patties or shaping your own, the air fryer can help you achieve a juicy and flavorful burger. Season the patties with your favorite herbs and spices, cook them in the air fryer until they reach the desired doneness, and serve them on a bun with your favorite toppings. Air frying turkey burgers provides a hassle-free way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal.
Game Meats
Venison
Air frying venison provides a unique way to enjoy this lean and flavorful meat. Whether you’re cooking venison steaks or burgers, the air fryer can help you achieve a delicious result. Season the venison with your preferred spices or marinade it beforehand for added flavor. Air frying venison can result in a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Duck
Air frying duck can be a convenient and efficient method to achieve a crispy skin and succulent meat. Whether you’re cooking duck breasts or a whole duck, the air fryer can handle it. Season the duck with salt, pepper, and any other spices or marinades you prefer, and let it cook in the air fryer until it reaches the desired doneness. Air frying duck offers a hassle-free way to enjoy this rich and flavorful poultry.
Quail
Air frying quail can provide a unique and delicious way to enjoy this small game bird. Quail is known for its tender and delicate meat, and air frying can help you achieve a flavorful result. Whether you’re cooking quail breasts or whole quail, the air fryer can handle it. Season the quail with your preferred spices, marinades, or glazes, and let them cook until they are browned and cooked through. Air frying quail offers a convenient and efficient cooking method, yielding tender and flavorful meat.
Rabbit
Air frying rabbit allows you to enjoy tender and flavorful meat with a slightly crispy exterior. Rabbit is a lean and versatile meat, and air frying can help you achieve a delicious result. Season the rabbit with your favorite herbs and spices, place it in the air fryer, and let it cook until it reaches the desired doneness. Air frying rabbit offers a hassle-free method to cook this unique and protein-rich meat.
Wild Boar
Wild boar is a rich and flavorful meat that can be cooked to perfection in an air fryer. Whether you’re making wild boar steaks or ribs, the air fryer can help you achieve a tender and juicy result. Season the wild boar with your preferred spices and marinades, place it in the air fryer, and let it cook until it reaches the desired doneness. Air frying wild boar offers a convenient and efficient method to cook this game meat.
Other Meats
Veal
Air frying veal provides a tender and flavorful result. Veal is known for its delicate taste, and air frying can help you achieve a delicious result. Whether you’re cooking veal chops or cutlets, the air fryer can handle it. Season the veal with your favorite herbs and spices and let it cook until it reaches the desired doneness. Air frying veal offers a hassle-free method to enjoy this tender and succulent meat.
Goat
Goat meat is a lean and flavorful meat that can be cooked in an air fryer. Whether you’re making curries, kabobs, or roast, the air fryer can help you achieve a flavorful result. Season the goat meat with your preferred spices, marinades, or sauces, and let it cook until it is tender and cooked through. Air frying goat meat offers a convenient and efficient method to cook this versatile meat.
Kangaroo
Air frying kangaroo meat can yield a tender and flavorful result. Kangaroo meat is known for its lean and nutritious properties, and air frying can help you enjoy this unique meat. Whether you’re making kangaroo steaks or burgers, the air fryer can handle it. Season the kangaroo meat with your favorite herbs and spices, and let it cook until it reaches the desired doneness. Air frying kangaroo meat offers a convenient cooking method for this exotic meat.
Buffalo
Buffalo meat, also known as bison meat, is a lean and flavorsome meat that can be cooked to perfection in an air fryer. Whether you’re making buffalo steaks, burgers, or roast, the air fryer can help you achieve mouthwatering results. Season the buffalo meat with your preferred spices or marinades, and let it cook until it reaches the desired doneness. Air frying buffalo meat offers a convenient and efficient method to cook this nutritious and tasty meat.
Ostrich
Ostrich meat is known for its leanness and unique flavor profile. Air frying ostrich meat can yield a tender and flavorful result. Whether you’re making ostrich steaks or burgers, the air fryer can help you achieve a delicious result. Season the ostrich meat with your favorite spices and herbs, and let it cook until it reaches the desired doneness. Air frying ostrich meat offers a hassle-free method to enjoy this exotic and nutritious meat.
Processed Meats
Hot Dogs
Air frying hot dogs can provide a quick and effortless way to enjoy this classic comfort food. By cooking hot dogs in an air fryer, you can achieve a slightly crispy skin while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful. Simply place the hot dogs in the air fryer and let them cook until they are heated through and reach your desired level of doneness. Air frying hot dogs offers a convenient and mess-free method to enjoy this crowd-pleasing treat.
Sausages
Air frying sausages is a popular method to achieve perfectly cooked sausages with a delightful texture. Whether you prefer breakfast sausages, Italian sausages, or bratwursts, the air fryer can handle them all. Air frying sausages results in a crispy exterior and a juicy interior without the need for excessive grease or oil. It’s a hassle-free method that provides consistent and tasty results.
Bologna
Yes, you can even air fry bologna! Air frying bologna can turn this deli meat into a crispy and flavorful treat. Simply place slices of bologna in the air fryer, and let them cook until they achieve a desired level of crispiness. Air frying bologna offers a unique twist to this classic sandwich meat, giving it a delightful crunch and enhancing its flavor.
Ham
Air frying ham can provide a convenient and hassle-free way to enjoy this versatile meat. Whether you’re cooking ham slices or ham steaks, the air fryer can help you achieve a delicious result. Air frying ham allows you to achieve a slightly caramelized exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Season the ham with your favorite glaze or simply let its natural flavors shine through. Air frying ham offers a quick and efficient option for cooking this popular meat.
Corned Beef
Air frying corned beef can provide a delightful twist to this traditional Irish dish. Whether you’re cooking corned beef slices or a whole brisket, the air fryer can help you achieve a delicious result. Air frying corned beef allows you to achieve a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and flavorful. Serve it with cabbage, potatoes, and mustard for a classic corned beef and cabbage meal. Air frying corned beef offers a convenient and efficient way to cook this St. Patrick’s Day staple.
In conclusion, the air fryer is a versatile cooking appliance that can handle a wide variety of meats. From chicken to seafood, and from beef to game meats, the air fryer can help you achieve delicious and flavorful results. With its ability to provide a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy, the air fryer offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. So go ahead and explore the possibilities of what meat you can cook in your air fryer. Let your taste buds guide you, and enjoy the convenience and deliciousness that the air fryer has to offer.