It’s frustrating to see your kids’ plates untouched. A waste of time and effort to cook something that isn’t appealing to these youngsters. Don’t worry, all you need is a few ingredients and your new best friend, the air fryer. We’ve gathered 19 air fryer meals to make your kids say, “more please!”
1. Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
One look from the kids and they would say, “Can I have some?” These bite-sized pieces surely are one of the most requested meals of the pickiest of them all. They’re crunchy and tasty, even without the oil, making it a healthier version of the regular ones.
2. Air Fryer Mac and Cheese Bites
Give your kids this timeless treat with its crispy version. Those little hands would surely grab a handful of these crispy shells with gooey mac and cheese on the inside. Perfect snack, especially with their favorite dip that even the adults will be sneaking a bite!
3. Air Fryer Corn Dogs
You’ll actually bring the carnival to your dining table with these corn dogs. Whether mini or regular size, the kids will still love it and raise their two thumbs up. Best of all, they’re very easy to make and have less grease than pan-fried corn dogs.
4. Air Fryer Meatballs
These air fryer meatballs are irresistible, whether tossed in spaghetti sauce or served on their own. A classic meal cooked in an air fryer with little to no oil. Your kids will empty their plates in no time with its tender inside and crispy brown edges.
5. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Kids won’t go about their week without asking for fries, and we can’t always say “no” to that. But we also want them to enjoy certain types of food. So, air fryer sweet potato fries are your tried and true since they are healthier than regular ones. Surely they won’t notice the difference.
6. Air Fryer Fish Sticks
The air fryer fish sticks are the perfect substitute for deep-fried ones. Cooking them in the air fryer seems effortless and healthy without grease. Just dump them in a single layer, then cook until golden brown. Perfect snack for the kids. Prepare it with flavorful dipping sauces, and they will love it.
7. Air Fryer Omelette Toast
Always remember the macros that your kids need. This air fryer omelette toast is a mess-free and easy way to enjoy fluffy eggs and bread. In just a matter of minutes, you and your kids will surely enjoy this high-protein meal for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
8. Air Fryer Cheesy Broccoli Bites
One of your goals for picky eaters is to make them enjoy eating their greens without them feeling nervous about it. Sometimes, you just need to sneak your way out. Turn those broccoli heads into something tasty and cheesy. The air fryer will help you create a healthy and yummy batch of cheesy broccoli bites.
9. Air Fryer Tofu Nuggets
That extra-soft tofu can turn into crispy goodness. A block of it is all you need, plus a few ingredients for the breading. Don’t forget to do the “freeze-thaw” method (simply toss the tofu in the freezer for an hour before cooking) to get that crispy and meaty texture at the end.
10. Air Fryer Taquitos
Seriously, who would resist these little crunchy tacos filled with seasoned meat, onions, and other spices? And the best part is that it’s not deep-fried. Say goodbye to that grease. Your fussy eaters would love to have their Mexican snacks dipped in salsa without making a mess.
11. Air Fryer Carrot Fries
Air fryer carrot fries are another vegan snack that would hopefully turn your kids into bunnies (because bunnies are carrot lovers, right?). The secret is your 100% effort on the seasoning. Carrots are bland, but with the right amount of (kid-friendly) spices, you will definitely hit the right spots that the kids will bounce around with excitement.
12. Air Fryer Pizza Toastie
No more waiting for delivery because an air fryer can do magic for that homemade pizza. Smother the bread with tomato sauce and toss it in the air fryer, and add another round for toppings. These are truly a lifesaver for both parents and picky kids.
13. Air Fryer Cheesy Chicken Pinwheels
Kids are not only picky about taste but also about presentation. And these pinwheels can amp up your cooking skills. These are large tortilla wraps cut into strips, then rolled into pinwheels stuffed with cooked chicken and other favorites. Best served with veggie sticks and their favorite dipping sauce.
14. Air Fryer Apple Chips
You may be wondering, “Aren’t these supposed to be potato chips?” Well, anything can be an alternative! And these apple chips are one of the best chips that your kids can munch on. You can also upgrade these chips with a sprinkle of cinnamon powder, which is even better than the regular potato chips.
15. Air Fryer Banana Bread
Bananas are usually kids’ favorite, but when no one’s eating them for a long time, they turn brown. We don’t want to waste them, so we turn them into banana bread! You can make these into minis so kids can enjoy them without feeling stuffed. It is an ideal meal for breakfast or just a craving.
16. Air Fryer Quesadilla
These air fryer quesadillas are easy to make and absolutely tasty. In less than half an hour, you can create crispy and cheesy folded tortillas filled with meat and vegetables. The kids will definitely love these as their light lunch or a simple family snack.
17. Air Fryer Pizza Egg Rolls
Pizza egg rolls are a fun twist for the kids’ dinner. No, you’re not going to stuff a whole slice into the eggroll wrapper. Stuff the wrapper with tomato sauce and your favorite pizza toppings, then cook them in the air fryer. These egg rolls are sure to be a hit.
18. Air Fryer Zucchini Fries
When the kids hear the word “zucchini,” they will stick out their tongue and say, “Eww!” Pair it with their favorite, like cheese, and maybe they’ll change their minds. These are strips of zucchini covered in panko batter, then cooked until golden brown. It makes for an ideal snack or appetizer.
19. Air Fryer Pigs In a Blanket
No veggie surprise, just juicy bite-sized hot dog pieces wrapped in crispy dough. It’s the perfect party food even during the days when we don’t celebrate anything. If you’re looking for an upgrade, try wrapping the hot dogs with bacon slices.