20 Quick Air Fryer Recipes for One Delicious Meal

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April 1, 2025

Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience when it comes to cooking for one? Look no further! Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, and with our collection of 20 quick and delicious recipes, you can enjoy a mouth-watering meal in no time. From savory salmon to sweet apple slices, we’ve got you covered. Say goodbye to boring solo meals and hello to flavorful feasts that are easy to prepare and cleanup.

In this article, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite air fryer recipes perfect for one person. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick lunch or a college student seeking a satisfying dinner, these recipes are sure to please. So grab your air fryer and let’s get cooking!

Air Fryer Garlic Butter Salmon

Air Fryer Garlic Butter Salmon
Moist and flavorful salmon fillets get a boost from the power of air frying, combined with the richness of garlic butter. This simple recipe yields a mouthwatering result that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the salmon fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon zest.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each fillet.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
6. Cook for 12-14 minutes or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
7. Remove from the air fryer and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Single-Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Single-Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Quick and Delicious Single-Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

Get crispy and juicy chicken tenders with minimal effort using your air fryer! This recipe yields a single serving of mouth-watering tenders that are perfect for a quick snack or meal.

Ingredients:
• 1 boneless, skinless chicken tender
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken tender under cold water, pat dry with a paper towel.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken tender.
5. Place the tender in a single layer at the bottom of the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through and crispy, shaking halfway.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Enjoy your delicious Single-Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders!

Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts for One

Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts for One
Elevate your side dish game with this easy and delicious recipe for crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts, perfect for a single serving.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the Brussels sprouts and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. In a bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until they are evenly coated.
4. Load the Brussels sprouts into the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
5. Cook the Brussels sprouts for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Air Fryer Mini Pepperoni Pizza

Air Fryer Mini Pepperoni Pizza
Air Fryer Mini Pepperoni Pizza Recipe

A mini twist on a classic favorite! This Air Fryer Mini Pepperoni Pizza recipe yields delicious and crispy individual pizzas with minimal mess and effort.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 mini pizza crusts (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 8 slices pepperoni
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out each mini pizza crust to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of tomato sauce on each crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange 2-3 slices of pepperoni on top of the sauce.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pepperoni.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the mini pizzas in the Air Fryer basket, leaving some space between each pizza.
8. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.

Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes

Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Mini Pepperoni Pizzas!

Quick Air Fryer Steak Bites

Quick Air Fryer Steak Bites
Satisfy your cravings with these tender and juicy steak bites cooked to perfection in just a few minutes using your air fryer. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g. paprika, cumin)

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beef cubes to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Load the marinated steak bites into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness (rare, medium rare, or well done).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes

Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries

Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries
Transform zucchinis into crispy, cheesy fries with this simple Air Fryer recipe.

Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or dried oregano for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis into fry shapes, about 3-4 inches long.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Dip each zucchini fry into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place the coated fries in a single layer in the Air Fryer basket.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings (if using).
7. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
8. Check for crispiness; if needed, continue cooking in 2-minute increments until desired texture is reached.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Air Fryer Parmesan Zucchini Fries!

Single-Portion Air Fryer Mac and Cheese

Single-Portion Air Fryer Mac and Cheese
This mini mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer for solo eaters or anyone looking to enjoy a comforting, creamy dish without the hassle of cooking a large batch. With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll have a delicious single-serving meal in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup macaroni
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and melted butter.
3. Add cooked macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese to the milk mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
5. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a single-serving air fryer basket or ramekin.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until top is golden brown and the mac and cheese is heated through.

Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes

Air Fryer Honey Sriracha Chicken Drumstick

Air Fryer Honey Sriracha Chicken Drumstick
Elevate your snack game with this easy and delicious Air Fryer recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the spicy kick of sriracha. Perfect for a quick lunch or as an appetizer for your next gathering.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Remove any excess moisture from the chicken drumsticks with paper towels.
4. Brush the honey-sriracha mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken.
5. Cook the chicken in the Air Fryer for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Scampi

Easy Air Fryer Shrimp Scampi
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this quick and flavorful shrimp scampi recipe, cooked to perfection in the air fryer!

Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together garlic, butter, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat with the scampi mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Load the shrimp into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes or until pink and cooked through, shaking halfway.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes

Serve: Enjoy your delicious air-fried shrimp scampi as an appetizer or main course, paired with pasta, rice, or crusty bread!

Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins for One

Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins for One
Enjoy a guilt-free loaded potato skin experience with this easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a single serving. This air fryer recipe is a great twist on the classic, offering a crispy and flavorful snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 large potato
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup diced cooked bacon (or vegetarian alternative)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and dry the potato, then slice it in half lengthwise.
3. Scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Brush the potato skin with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Top each potato skin with shredded cheese, diced bacon, and chopped green onions.
6. Place the loaded potato skins in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them.
7. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the potatoes are crispy and the cheese is melted.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Single-Serve Air Fryer French Toast Sticks

Single-Serve Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
Start your day with a sweet and crispy breakfast treat that’s ready in just minutes. These Single-Serve Air Fryer French Toast Sticks are the perfect solution for busy mornings.

Ingredients:

– 1 slice of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, vanilla extract, and sugar until well combined.
2. Dip one slice of bread into the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Place the coated bread slice into the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Remove the French toast stick from the air fryer and let it cool for a minute before serving.

Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes

Air Fryer Teriyaki Tofu Bowl

Air Fryer Teriyaki Tofu Bowl
Air Fryer Teriyaki Tofu Bowl Recipe

Discover a delicious and healthy twist on traditional teriyaki tofu, cooked to perfection in an air fryer!

Ingredients:

– 1 block of extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized cubes
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions, sliced almonds, and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
3. Add the tofu cubes to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Place the marinated tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, sliced almonds, and sesame seeds.
7. Serve over rice or noodles and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Quick Air Fryer Pork Chop

Quick Air Fryer Pork Chop
Elevate your pork chops game with this simple and flavorful recipe that yields a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., paprika, thyme)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the pork chops with the mixture.
4. Place the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
5. Cook for 12-14 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Flip halfway through cooking time.
6. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites

Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Transform cauliflower into a spicy, cheesy, and addictive snack with this easy recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Load the cauliflower mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
4. Remove from the air fryer and toss with buffalo wing sauce until the cauliflower is well-coated.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and blue cheese (if using) over the cauliflower.
6. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Single-Portion Air Fryer Donut Holes

Single-Portion Air Fryer Donut Holes
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these delectable Single-Portion Air Fryer Donut Holes. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together yeast, milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
5. Using a spoon or piping bag, drop 6-8 small balls of dough into the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Remove from the air fryer and dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.

Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes

Enjoy your delicious Single-Portion Air Fryer Donut Holes!

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Asparagus

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Asparagus
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and healthy Air Fryer recipe! This easy-to-make dish combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the brightness of lemon and the warmth of pepper, all in just a few minutes.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line the Air Fryer basket with parchment paper, if desired.
3. Place the asparagus in a single layer in the basket.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and sprinkle with lemon zest, black pepper, and salt (if using).
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until tender, shaking halfway through.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Easy Air Fryer Falafel Wrap

Easy Air Fryer Falafel Wrap
Easy Air Fryer Falafel Wrap

Looking for a tasty and healthy meal option that’s quick to prepare? This Easy Air Fryer Falafel Wrap recipe is perfect for you! Crunchy falafel, fresh veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce all wrapped up in a warm pita bread.

Ingredients:

– 1 package of store-bought or homemade falafel
– 1 large pita bread
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons tzatziki sauce
– 1 tablespoon hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the falafel according to package instructions or until crispy.
3. Warm the pita bread in the oven for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
4. Assemble the wrap by spreading hummus on the pita, followed by mixed greens, cucumber, bell pepper, and cooked falafel.
5. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including prep time)

Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apple Slices

Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apple Slices
Transform fresh apples into a sweet and crispy treat with this easy air fryer recipe. Perfect for snacking or as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 apples (any variety), sliced into 1/4-inch thick wedges
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add apple slices to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Place apple slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. If desired, sprinkle brown sugar over the apples during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
7. Remove from the air fryer and serve warm or let cool completely.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Single-Serve Air Fryer Quesadilla

Single-Serve Air Fryer Quesadilla
This Single-Serve Air Fryer Quesadilla recipe yields a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful treat in just minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or meal on-the-go!

Ingredients:

– 1 large tortilla
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
– 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup diced cooked chicken, beef, or veggies (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
2. Butter or spray one side of the tortilla.
3. Place the tortilla in the air fryer basket, buttered side down.
4. Sprinkle cheese on half of the tortilla, leaving a small border.
5. Add optional diced chicken, beef, or veggies if using.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose filling.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until crispy and melted.
8. Carefully remove quesadilla from air fryer and season with salt and pepper.

Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes

Air Fryer Herb-Roasted Carrots

Air Fryer Herb-Roasted Carrots
Quickly elevate your snack or side dish game with this easy and flavorful recipe for Air Fryer Herb-Roasted Carrots.

Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized sticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the chopped carrots with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Load the carrot mixture into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 12-14 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Check for desired level of doneness; return to cooking if needed.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Summary

Looking for delicious and quick meals that serve one? Look no further! This article features 20 mouth-watering air fryer recipes, perfect for a single serving. From savory dishes like Air Fryer Garlic Butter Salmon and Quick Air Fryer Steak Bites to sweet treats like Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Apple Slices and Single-Serve Air Fryer Donut Holes, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a busy lifestyle.

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