There’s nothing I love more than gathering my family around the table for a good, hearty meal. But let’s be honest, getting those little picky eaters to enjoy their food can sometimes feel like herding cats.
Bless their hearts, they’re just so particular! That’s where my trusty air fryer comes to the rescue, making it a whole lot easier to whip up meals that even the finickiest of kiddos will gobble right up.
Now, I remember the day I brought home my air fryer like it was yesterday. I was skeptical at first—how could this little contraption possibly compete with my cast iron skillet and deep fryer?
But let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer. From crunchy chicken tenders to golden-brown fries, the air fryer does it all with less oil and fuss.
And the best part? My kids absolutely love the food that comes out of it. It’s like having a little bit of Southern magic in my kitchen!
One of the things I adore about the air fryer is how it allows me to cook up healthier versions of our Southern favorites.
We all know our Southern cuisine can be a tad indulgent, with all that frying and butter. But with the air fryer, I can serve up crispy, delicious dishes that are lighter on the oil but still packed with that down-home flavor my family loves.
From fried green tomatoes to sweet potato fries, I can keep our meals tasty and a bit more wholesome.
Over time, I’ve put together a collection of kid-approved air fryer recipes that have become hits in our household. These recipes are simple, quick, and most importantly, they get those little hands reaching for seconds.
And I get it, mama—to keep your sanity, you need a variety of meal ideas that are easy to prepare and sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
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In this post, I’m tickled to share 30 of our family’s favorite air fryer recipes that are just perfect for picky eaters.
Whether you’re wrangling a toddler who’s in a picky phase or an older child with a particular palate, these recipes are sure to bring smiles to the dinner table.
From breakfast delights to satisfying dinners and fun snacks, there’s something here for every meal.
So, grab your air fryer and join me in the kitchen. These recipes are designed to make mealtime a breeze and a joy, giving you more time to savor those precious moments with your family.
Let’s get cooking and discover the joy of air fryer magic for our little ones!
Breakfast
Now it’s time to start the day off right with some kid-friendly air fryer breakfast recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
You’re about to discover some fun and creative ways to get your kids excited about breakfast.
From sweet treats to classic favorites, you’ll find some amazing air fryer breakfast ideas that your kids will love.
Air Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
I’m obsessed with this air-fried PB&J!
The crispy bread and gooey peanut butter and jelly filling are a match made in heaven.
It’s the perfect twist on a classic favorite that your kids will devour in seconds.
And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make, so even the busiest of mornings can start with a smile.
Trust me, this breakfast treat is going to become a staple in your household!
Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bunnies
These Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll Bunnies are absolutely irresistible!
They’re the perfect way to start the day, and I just know your kiddos will go wild for them.
Who wouldn’t love a sweet, fluffy, and crispy treat that’s almost too cute to eat?
The best part is that they’re surprisingly easy to make, and the air fryer does all the heavy lifting.
The end result is a delicious breakfast that feels like a special treat, but won’t derail your diet.
Trust me, these adorable bunnies will hop their way into your heart – and your breakfast routine!
Air Fryer Strawberry French Toast Rollups
These Air Fryer Strawberry French Toast Rollups are a dream come true for kids and adults alike!
They’re the perfect combination of crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with a sweet surprise of strawberry jam and cream cheese in the middle.
It’s like a special treat that feels indulgent, but is actually a relatively healthy breakfast option.
And let’s be real, who can resist the charm of a warm, golden-brown rollup served with fresh strawberries and whipped cream?
It’s a breakfast that’s sure to bring smiles all around the table!
Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts
Fall in a bite – that’s what you get with these Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts!
The combination of warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider is absolute perfection.
What I love most about these donuts is how they’re both crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, all while being ridiculously easy to make.
It’s the epitome of a cozy morning treat that’ll become a staple in your household, I just know it!
Easy Air Fryer Apple Fritters
These Easy Air Fryer Apple Fritters are a total breakfast dream come true!
They’re the perfect way to get your day started on a sweet note.
I just know your kiddos will go wild for these crispy, sugary bites – and the best part?
They’re ridiculously easy to make!
Lunch/Dinner
Now it’s time to think about lunch and dinner, and you’re probably wondering what kid-friendly air fryer recipes you can whip up for these meals.
You’ll be happy to know that you can make a variety of tasty and fun dishes that your kids will love.
From tacos to pizzas, and even seafood, you’re about to discover some amazing air fryer recipes that’ll become staples in your household.
Air Fryer Taco Casserole
The perfect comfort food that’s about to become a staple in your household!
This air fryer taco casserole is a flavor bomb that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds.
I mean, who can resist the combination of savory ground beef, crunchy tortillas, and gooey cheese?
It’s a match made in heaven!
And the best part? It’s on the table in no time, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Your kiddos will be thrilled to have their favorite taco flavors in a whole new way, and you’ll be thrilled to have a meal that’s both easy and delicious.
It’s a win-win!
Air Fryer Bagel Pizzas
The versatility of a toasted bagel!
Who’d have thought it could be transformed into a mini pizza party?
I just love how this air fryer hack lets me create individualized pizzas that are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
The best part? My kids get to customize their own bagel pizzas with their favorite toppings – it’s a fun way to get them involved in the cooking process!
And let’s be honest, who can resist a gooey, cheesy, bubbly pizza that’s ready in just a few minutes?
It’s a total winner in my book!
Air Fryer Beef Empanadas
I just can’t get enough of these air fryer beef empanadas!
They’re a total flavor bomb that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Latin America.
The combination of savory ground beef, caramelized onions, and a hint of spice wrapped in a crispy, flaky crust is absolutely irresistible.
And the best part? They’re ridiculously easy to whip up, making them a perfect addition to your busy weeknight dinner rotation.
Trust me, your family will devour these babies in no time!
Air Fryer Hot Dogs
I’m obsessed with how easy it’s to make hot dogs in the air fryer!
It’s a total mom-win because the kids love ’em, and I love that they’re not loaded with extra oil.
Plus, you can customize them with all sorts of yummy toppings – I mean, who doesn’t love a good chili dog or a relish-topped frank?
It’s a fun, easy meal that’s perfect for busy nights or quick lunches.
My kids go wild for them, and I love that they’re a healthier take on a classic favorite.
Air Fryer Old Bay Shrimp
I’m absolutely smitten with this Air Fryer Old Bay Shrimp recipe!
The combination of tender shrimp, crispy air-fried goodness, and that unmistakable Old Bay zing is an absolute winner in my book.
And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to whip up, so you can impress your family and friends without breaking a sweat.
Trust me, the flavors are so on point that everyone will be begging for seconds (and maybe even thirds!)
Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp
Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp is a total winner in my book!
It’s one of those magical recipes that checks all the boxes – crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ridiculously flavorful.
What I love most about this dish is how it’s both a fun twist on traditional shrimp and an absolute crowd-pleaser.
My kids go wild for that perfect combo of crunchy panko breadcrumbs and tender shrimp, and I adore how easily it all comes together.
It’s a lifesaver on busy days when I need a quick, delicious meal that’s sure to put smiles on everyone’s faces.
Air Fryer Mac And Cheese
This Air Fryer Mac and Cheese is a total mom-win!
It’s a comforting classic that’s ridiculously easy to whip up, and I just know your family will be obsessed.
The combination of creamy pasta, gooey cheese, and a satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb topping is absolute perfection.
Plus, it’s ready in under 20 minutes – talk about a weekday lifesaver!
My kids can’t get enough of this indulgent treat, and I love that it’s a healthier take on a traditional mac and cheese.
It’s the ultimate feel-good food that’s sure to become a staple in your household, just like it has in mine!
Air Fryer Chicken Fried Rice
I’m obsessed with this air fryer chicken fried rice recipe!
The combination of juicy chicken, scrambled eggs, and a rainbow of veggies all in one dish is an absolute winner in my book.
And let’s be real, the air fryer’s crispy texture takes this classic comfort food to a whole new level.
I mean, who doesn’t love a meal that’s both healthy and ridiculously tasty?
My kids devour it, and I love that I can whip it up in no time.
It’s a staple in our household, and I just know your family will adore it just as much as mine does!
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
I’m obsessed with this Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan recipe!
It’s a total winner in my book, and I know your family will adore it just as much as mine does.
The best part? You get that crispy, crunchy exterior and juicy interior without all the extra oil.
It’s a total score for a quick and easy lunch or dinner that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
And let’s be real, who can resist that perfect combo of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella?
It’s comfort food at its finest!
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Burgers
I’m obsessed with these easy air fryer chicken burgers!
They’re a total mom-win because they’re ridiculously easy to make and my kids devour them.
The best part? They’re actually healthy, so I don’t have to feel guilty about serving them up for dinner.
Plus, they’re so versatile – my kids love customizing their own burgers with their favorite toppings.
It’s a fun, stress-free meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Trust me, once you try these, they’ll be on repeat in your household too!
Air Fryer Fish and Chips
I’m obsessed with this air fryer fish and chips recipe! It’s a total winner in my book.
The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make and is a total crowd-pleaser, even with the pickiest of eaters.
And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good fish and chips combo? The fact that it’s a healthier take on the classic is just the cherry on top.
My kids devour it, and I love that I can feel good about what I’m feeding them. It’s a total mom-win!
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
These air fryer chicken tenders are a total winner in my book!
They’re the perfect solution for a quick, healthy, and mouth-watering meal that my kids (and let’s be honest, my husband too!) can’t get enough of.
The best part? They’re ridiculously easy to make, and the result is a crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside tender that’s just irresistible.
Plus, you can customize the flavors to your heart’s content, so everyone in the family gets exactly what they love.
Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your household too!
Air Fryer Taquitos
These air fryer taquitos are a total mom-win!
They’re the perfect solution for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that the whole family will love.
I mean, who can resist the combination of crispy tortillas, flavorful chicken, and gooey cheese?
Plus, they’re so versatile – serve them with salsa, guac, or sour cream, and you’ve got a match made in heaven!
Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your household, and your kids will be begging for more!
Air Fryer Turkey & Cheese Roll-Ups
I’m obsessed with these Air Fryer Turkey & Cheese Roll-Ups!
They’re a total winner in my book, and I know your family will adore them just as much as mine does.
The combination of tender turkey, gooey cheese, and crispy tortilla is absolute perfection.
Plus, it’s so quick to whip up – you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
My kids can’t get enough of these tasty roll-ups, and I love that they’re a healthier option too.
It’s a mom-win all around!
Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket
I’m obsessed with Air Fryer Pigs in a Blanket, and I know your kids will be too!
It’s one of those magical recipes that’s equal parts easy and impressive, making it a total winner in my book.
The combination of crispy, flaky croissant dough and a juicy mini hot dog is absolute perfection.
Plus, it’s ready in a flash, which is music to this busy mom’s ears!
Snacks
Now it’s time to talk snacks!
You’re probably wondering what yummy treats you can whip up for your kiddos using your trusty air fryer.
From crispy veggies to sweet surprises, we’ve got some tasty snack ideas that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Air Fryer Zucchini Coins
I just can’t get enough of these air fryer zucchini coins!
They’re a total winner in my book, and I know your kids will be hooked from the very first bite.
What’s not to love?
They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor.
And the best part?
They’re ridiculously easy to make, so you can have a healthy snack on the table in no time.
Trust me, these little coins of goodness are about to become a staple in your household!
Air Fryer French Fries
I’m obsessed with these air fryer French fries! They’re a total mom-win, if you ask me.
Not only are they ridiculously easy to make, but they’re also a much healthier alternative to the store-bought kind.
And let’s be real, who can resist a crispy, golden fry?
My kids devour these in seconds, and I love that I can feel good about what I’m feeding them.
Plus, they’re just so versatile – toss them with some herbs, sprinkle with parmesan, or enjoy them plain and simple.
Whatever way you slice it, these air fryer French fries are a snack time dream come true!
Air Fryer Banana Peanut Butter Egg Rolls
I’m obsessed with these air fryer banana peanut butter egg rolls!
They’re the perfect treat to satisfy my kids’ sweet tooth without feeling too guilty.
The combination of warm, crispy egg roll wrappers, gooey peanut butter, and sweet banana slices is absolute perfection.
And the best part? They’re ridiculously easy to make, so I can whip them up in no time whenever my little ones need a pick-me-up.
Trust me, your kids will be begging for these tasty bites!
Air Fryer English Muffin Pizzas
The magic of air fryer English muffin pizzas!
These bite-sized wonders are about to become the ultimate crowd-pleaser in your household.
I mean, who wouldn’t adore a personalized mini pizza that’s all their own?
The best part? Kids get to be their own pizza chefs, loading up on their favorite toppings for a fun and delicious experience that’s sure to spark imaginations and appetites alike!
Easy Air Fryer Pizza Egg Rolls
I’m obsessed with these Easy Air Fryer Pizza Egg Rolls!
They’re a total showstopper, and I just know your family will go wild for them.
Imagine all the flavors of your favorite pizza, wrapped up in a crispy, golden package – it’s a match made in heaven!
The best part? They’re ridiculously easy to make, and the perfect snack for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for your next gathering.
Trust me, these babies are going to be a staple in your household in no time!
Easy Air Fryer Mexican Pizza
This air fryer Mexican pizza is a total kid-pleaser!
I mean, who wouldn’t love the combination of crispy tortillas, gooey cheese, and savory beans all in one delicious package?
It’s like a fiesta in your mouth!
And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make, so you can get it on the table in no time.
I’ve seen my kids devour this in seconds, and I’m sure yours will do the same.
Plus, you can customize it to their liking with their favorite toppings.
It’s a fun twist on traditional pizza night that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower
This Air Fryer Bang Bang Cauliflower is a total obsession waiting to happen!
The combination of crispy, spicy, and savory flavors will have you hooked from the very first bite.
It’s the perfect indulgence to satisfy your cravings while watching your favorite show or during a quick study break.
Trust me, you won’t be able to stop at just one serving!
Air Fryer Apple Chips
Air Fryer Apple Chips are a total winner in my book!
As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for healthy snacks that my kids will actually devour, and these crispy little treats fit the bill.
The combination of sweet, tender apples, warm cinnamon, and a hint of honey is absolute perfection.
Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to whip up, making them the perfect solution for our on-the-go lifestyle.
Trust me, your kiddos will be hooked from the very first bite!
Desserts
Now it’s time to satisfy your sweet tooth!
You’re about to discover some amazing air fryer desserts that your kids will love, from classic treats to fruity surprises.
Get ready to whip up a batch of sweet goodies, like Air Fryer Chocolate M&M Cookies, brownies, bread pudding, and grilled peaches that’ll become instant favorites!
Air Fryer Chocolate M&M Cookies
The Air Fryer Chocolate M&M Cookies – a total revelation!
Who would’ve thought that tossing those colorful little gems into the air fryer basket would yield the most divine, crispy-on-the-edges, chewy-on-the-inside treats?
The best part? It’s a cinch to make and requires minimal fuss and oil!
The result is a delightful mashup of textures and flavors that will have your family and friends hooked from the get-go.
These babies are perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings, and I just know your gang will devour them in no time!
Air Fryer Simple Brownies
I’m obsessed with these air fryer brownies!
They’re a total revelation – rich, fudgy, and utterly decadent, without heating up my kitchen or spending hours slaving away.
The best part? They’re ridiculously easy to whip up, so you can satisfy your sweet tooth whenever the mood strikes.
And let’s be real, who doesn’t love the idea of indulging in a gooey, chocolatey treat with minimal effort?
It’s the perfect solution for busy days when you need a sweet escape!
Air Fryer Bread Pudding
This air fryer bread pudding is a total showstopper!
It’s the perfect way to breathe new life into stale bread, and the result is just incredible.
The combination of crispy edges and fluffy centers is absolutely irresistible, and the best part is that it’s ready in a flash – under 20 minutes, to be exact!
I just know your family will go wild for this sweet treat, and the best part is that you can customize it to your heart’s content with your favorite toppings or sauces.
Trust me, this one’s a winner!
Air Fryer Grilled Peaches
Air fryer grilled peaches are a match made in heaven!
The sweetness of the peaches pairs perfectly with the warmth of the cinnamon, and the hint of honey adds a richness that’s just irresistible.
I mean, who wouldn’t love a dessert that’s both sweet and savory at the same time?
And the best part? It’s so easy to make!
Your family and friends will be begging for more of this delightful summer treat, and you’ll be the star of the show for serving something so unique and delicious.
Trust me, this recipe is a must-try!
