Full disclosure: I'm still startled — OK, I scream — when deep-frying food. I hate the way hot oil splatters out of the pan! Which is why I'm so grateful for my air fryer [1]. Not only is the air fryer generally quicker and more hassle-free than deep-frying, but it's also much healthier [2] because you use very little oil, slashing calories and fat [3] from your dish. And while it's perhaps most loved for whipping up foods like french fries, there are also plenty of protein-rich recipes you can make in the air fryer. Scroll ahead to see 10 of our favorites!
Cauliflower Chickpea Tacos
Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making this 30-minute taco recipe both filling and flavorful. It'll quickly become a Tuesday-night staple.
Get the recipe: cauliflower chickpea tacos [4]
Salmon Cakes
These crispy, coconut-topped salmon cakes may not look like much, but a serving packs a whopping 41 grams of protein. Plus, they're low-carb, Paleo, and Whole30-approved.
Get the recipe: salmon cakes [5]
Fish Sticks
Treat yourself to fish and chips, by coating cod or tilapia with panko breadcrumbs and dropping them in the air fryer. Serve with tartar sauce or another dip of your choice.
Get the recipe: fish sticks [6]
Pumpkin Spice Tofu
If you wish you could drink a pumpkin spice latte year-round, try this inventive spin on the plant-based staple, tofu.
Get the recipe: pumpkin spice tofu [7]
Chicken Wings With Buffalo Sauce
Swap breaded chicken for these delicious chicken wings, topped with a spicy buffalo sauce. They're lighter than traditional fried chicken, but still packed with satisfying protein.
Get the recipe: chicken wings with buffalo sauce [8]
Cajun Breakfast Sausage
We love that you can use the air fryer for breakfast, too! Make this Cajun sausage with chicken or lean pork to add some filling protein to your mornings.
Get the recipe: Cajun breakfast sausage [9]
Shrimp With Comeback Sauce
You need only black pepper and paprika to season this protein-rich shrimp, but the creamy comeback sauce adds an extra kick of flavor.
Get the recipe: shrimp with comeback sauce [10]
Hard-Boiled Eggs
Did you know you can cook hard-boiled eggs in an air fryer? Oh, and they're one of the most affordable, versatile sources of protein [11] around.
Get the recipe: hard-boiled eggs [12]
Pork Chops
This simple pork chop recipe is perfect for busy weeknights! It takes just 20 minutes to prepare and is seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar for delicious flavor in every bite.
Get the recipe: pork chops [13]
Chicken Nuggets
Chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, and when they're served as nuggets, you'll feel like a kid again. Save this recipe for when you're craving comfort food!
Get the recipe: chicken nuggets [14]