20+ Easy Air Fryer Side Dishes for Healthy and Delicious Meals

Looking for the perfect companion to your main dishes? Air fryer side dishes are the ultimate solution for creating healthy, delicious, and quick meals that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just trying to spice up your weeknight dinners, air fryers make it easy to whip up crispy, flavorful sides with minimal effort and oil. Let’s explore these mouthwatering options and unlock the full potential of your air fryer!

Why Choose Air Fryer Side Dishes?

Air fryer side dishes have become a popular choice for home cooks, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a winning combination of convenience, health benefits, and versatility that traditional cooking methods struggle to match. Here are the top reasons to include air fryer sides in your meals:

1. Healthier Cooking Options:
   Air fryers use significantly less oil than frying or even roasting, resulting in dishes with fewer calories and less fat. This makes them an excellent choice for those seeking a balanced diet without compromising on flavor or texture.
   
2. Crispy, Delicious Results:
   Despite using minimal oil, air fryers create crispy exteriors and tender interiors in foods like fries, vegetables, and even proteins. This means you get the satisfying crunch and taste of deep-fried sides without the added guilt.
   
3. Time-Saving Convenience:
   Air fryers heat up quickly and cook faster than conventional ovens, saving you valuable time in the kitchen. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a quick addition to your meal.
   
4. Versatility for All Tastes:
   From golden-brown potato wedges to garlic-infused zucchini fries and crispy onion rings, air fryer side dishes can cater to any palate or dietary preference. They can effortlessly complement any cuisine or main course.
   
5. Energy Efficiency:
   Air fryers are compact and consume less energy compared to traditional ovens, making them a more eco-friendly choice for cooking small portions or quick sides.

By choosing air fryer side dishes, you’re embracing a modern, healthier, and more efficient way to enjoy your favorite accompaniments. They’re a game-changer for home cooks seeking taste, convenience, and nutrition in every bite!

Top 20+ Easy Air Fryer Side Dish Recipes

1. Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts take on a whole new level of deliciousness in the air fryer. With their crispy outer leaves and tender centers, they make a nutritious and flavorful side dish packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Brussels sprouts (halved)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tsp garlic powder
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Serve hot as a delicious, guilt-free accompaniment to any main dish.

2. Garlic Parmesan Zucchini Fries

These zucchini fries are a healthier alternative to traditional fries, offering a crunchy texture and a boost of vitamins A and C.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis (cut into sticks)
  
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
  
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
• 1 egg (beaten)
  
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Dip zucchini sticks into the beaten egg, then coat with a mix of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and garlic powder.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
   
3. Cook for 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy.

Perfect with a marinara or ranch dipping sauce for a satisfying snack or side.

3. Spiced Sweet Potato Wedges

Sweet potato wedges are a wholesome, fiber-rich side dish with a natural sweetness balanced by warm spices.

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes (cut into wedges)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
  
• ½ tsp chili powder
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss sweet potato wedges with olive oil and seasonings.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

A great side dish for burgers or grilled chicken, bringing a touch of sweetness and spice.

4. Herb-Roasted Baby Potatoes

These tender baby potatoes are bursting with herby flavors and make an easy, crowd-pleasing side.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups baby potatoes (halved)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
  
• 1 tsp dried thyme
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Coat potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
   
3. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Ideal for serving with roasted meats or as part of a hearty breakfast spread.

5. Classic Air Fryer French Fries

The ultimate comfort food, air fryer French fries are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and much healthier than deep-fried versions.

Ingredients:

• 3 medium russet potatoes (peeled and sliced into sticks)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Soak potato sticks in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat dry.
   
2. Toss with olive oil and salt.
   
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
4. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes.

Serve with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce for a classic side dish everyone will love.

6. Loaded Baked Potato Skins

Crispy potato skins filled with cheese, bacon, and green onions make for a delicious, indulgent treat packed with protein and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium russet potatoes (baked and halved)
  
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  
• 4 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
  
• 2 tbsp sour cream
  
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions

Instructions:

1. Scoop out the potato centers, leaving a thin layer of potato on the skins.
   
2. Fill with cheese and bacon, and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts.
   
3. Top with sour cream and green onions before serving.

These loaded skins are perfect for game days or as a hearty side dish for any meal.

7. Breaded Tofu Bites

A crispy, protein-packed vegan option, these tofu bites are flavorful and easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 block firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
  
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
  
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
  
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
  
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Toss tofu cubes with soy sauce and garlic powder, then coat with cornstarch and breadcrumbs.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a crunchy and satisfying side.

8. Crispy Air Fryer Onion Rings

Golden and crunchy, onion rings are a classic side dish that’s even better when made healthier in the air fryer.

Ingredients:

• 1 large onion (sliced into rings)
  
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
  
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  
• 1 egg (beaten)
  
• 1 tsp paprika

Instructions:

1. Dip onion rings into flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs mixed with paprika.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Pair with a tangy dipping sauce for a side dish that’s a crowd-pleaser.

9. Mini Cheese-Stuffed Mushrooms

These bite-sized mushrooms are filled with a creamy cheese mixture, making them an elegant and nutritious side or appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 15 medium mushrooms (stems removed)
  
• ½ cup cream cheese
  
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
• 1 tsp garlic powder
  
• 1 tsp chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Mix cream cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, and parsley. Stuff the mushrooms with the mixture.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 8-10 minutes until mushrooms are tender and cheese is golden.

Serve as a fancy side dish or appetizer that’s sure to impress guests.

10. Crunchy Tortilla Chips

Homemade tortilla chips are a healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought versions.

Ingredients:

• 6 small tortillas (cut into triangles)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• ½ tsp chili powder
  
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss tortilla triangles with olive oil, chili powder, and salt.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
   
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

Pair these crunchy chips with guacamole or salsa for a perfect snack or side dish.

11. Parmesan Garlic Asparagus

Crispy and flavorful, air-fried asparagus with Parmesan and garlic is a nutrient-rich side dish loaded with vitamins A, C, and K.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  
• 1 tsp garlic powder
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss asparagus with olive oil, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

Serve this vibrant side dish alongside grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal.

12. Sweet Corn Ribs

Corn ribs are a fun and unique way to enjoy sweet corn, with a smoky flavor and crispy edges.

Ingredients:

• 2 ears of corn (cut lengthwise into quarters)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brush corn pieces with olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
   

Wrap-Up:
Enjoy as a snack or side dish with your favorite BBQ sauce.

13. Honey Glazed Carrots

These sweet and tender carrots, with a hint of honey and cinnamon, are a nutritious and colorful side dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups baby carrots
  
• 1 tbsp honey
  
• 1 tsp cinnamon
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Toss carrots with honey, cinnamon, and olive oil.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

A perfect pairing for roasted chicken or as a festive holiday side.

14. Crispy Chickpeas

High in protein and fiber, air-fried chickpeas are a crunchy, healthy side or snack option.

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
  
• ½ tsp garlic powder
  
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Pat chickpeas dry and toss with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes.

Add to salads or serve as a crunchy side for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

15. Garlic Herb Breadsticks

These soft and flavorful breadsticks are perfect for dipping into marinara or soup.

Ingredients:

• 1 can pre-made pizza dough
  
• 2 tbsp melted butter
  
• 1 tsp garlic powder
  
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  
• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Cut pizza dough into strips and twist into breadsticks. Brush with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
   
3. Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown. Sprinkle with Parmesan before serving.

A delicious and quick side dish for pasta or soup nights.

16. Roasted Garlic Cauliflower

Air-fried cauliflower becomes a crispy, golden side dish infused with roasted garlic flavors, perfect for a low-carb meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 head cauliflower (cut into florets)
  
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tsp garlic powder
  
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

A simple, healthy side dish that pairs well with roasted chicken or steak.

17. Crispy Parmesan Green Beans

Green beans get a delicious upgrade with a crispy Parmesan coating, adding a burst of flavor and crunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups green beans (trimmed)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  
• 1 tsp garlic powder
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss green beans with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

Serve as a vibrant side dish that’s as nutritious as it is tasty.

18. Sweet and Spicy Roasted Peppers

Colorful bell peppers are air-fried to perfection with a sweet and spicy glaze, adding bold flavors to your meal.

Ingredients:

• 3 bell peppers (sliced)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tbsp honey
  
• ½ tsp chili flakes
  
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix olive oil, honey, chili flakes, and salt, then toss with sliced peppers.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 8-10 minutes until tender and slightly charred.

A delightful side dish that complements grilled meats or sandwiches.

19. Air Fryer Plantain Chips

Plantain chips are a crunchy, naturally sweet snack or side dish, perfect for dipping in guacamole or salsa.

Ingredients:

• 2 green plantains (sliced thinly)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss plantain slices with olive oil and salt.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
   
3. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through until golden and crispy.

Enjoy these crispy plantain chips as a snack or a side dish to accompany your main meal.

20. Air Fryer Broccoli with Lemon and Garlic

Air-fried broccoli florets with lemon and garlic make a simple, yet flavorful side dish, perfect for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tsp garlic powder
  
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss broccoli with olive oil, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

A light, zesty side dish that pairs beautifully with fish, chicken, or as part of a healthy bowl.

21. Crispy Zucchini Fries

Zucchini fries are a lighter version of traditional fries, offering a crispy coating with a tender inside, perfect for a healthy snack or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis (cut into sticks)
  
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
  
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  
• 1 egg (beaten)
  
• 1 tsp garlic powder
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Dip zucchini sticks in egg, then coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Pair these zucchini fries with a tangy dipping sauce for a fun and healthy side dish.

22. Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Air-fried Brussels sprouts have crispy, caramelized edges with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, creating the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  
• 1 tsp honey
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
   
4. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and honey just before serving.

This dish is the perfect side to roasted meats or a hearty vegetarian meal.

23. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges

These crispy, sweet potato wedges are perfectly seasoned and air-fried to golden perfection, making them a healthy alternative to traditional fries.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (cut into wedges)
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tsp paprika
  
• ½ tsp garlic powder
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss sweet potato wedges with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and tender.
   

A perfect side for burgers or grilled chicken, offering a naturally sweet and savory flavor.

24. Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash

Roasted butternut squash in the air fryer turns tender and caramelized with a slight sweetness, making it a nutritious and tasty side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash (peeled and cubed)
  
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Toss the squash cubes with olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until the squash is tender and lightly browned.

A perfect fall-inspired side dish that pairs wonderfully with pork or roasted chicken.

25. Air Fryer Cabbage Steaks

Cabbage steaks are thick slices of cabbage seasoned and air-fried to a crispy texture. They are a low-carb, crunchy, and flavorful side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 small head of cabbage (cut into thick slices)
  
• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
  
• ½ tsp garlic powder
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brush the cabbage slices with olive oil and season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
   
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   
3. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy on the edges.

Cabbage steaks are a flavorful, healthy, and crispy side dish that’s perfect with grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.

Tips for Making the Best Air Fryer Side Dishes

Air fryers are a fantastic kitchen appliance that can help you create quick, healthy, and delicious side dishes. To ensure your air fryer side dishes come out perfectly crispy, tender, and flavorful, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer
   Preheating your air fryer before adding your ingredients ensures even cooking and crisping. It’s just like when you preheat an oven—it helps the food cook faster and more evenly. Most air fryers only need about 3-5 minutes to reach the desired temperature.
   
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
   Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food. To get the best results, you should avoid overcrowding the basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and prevent your food from getting crispy. If you have a lot of ingredients, cook in batches to ensure every piece gets cooked properly.
   
3. Use a Light Coat of Oil
   While air fryers use significantly less oil than deep frying, a light coat of oil can help achieve the crispy texture you’re after. Spray a small amount of olive oil or avocado oil over your ingredients for even coverage. Avoid soaking the food in oil to maintain the health benefits of air frying.
   
4. Shake or Flip Halfway Through
   For even crispiness, shake the basket or flip the food halfway through the cooking process. This ensures all sides are exposed to the hot air, giving you a golden and crispy texture all over.
   
5. Experiment with Seasonings and Sauces
   Air-fried foods often have a more concentrated flavor, so make sure to use bold seasonings and spices. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, or marinades. Add some extra flavor with a drizzle of sauce like balsamic glaze, tahini, or a squeeze of fresh lemon right after cooking.
   
6. Cut Ingredients into Uniform Sizes
   To ensure that everything cooks evenly, make sure the pieces of food are cut to a similar size. For example, if you’re cooking vegetables, try to cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate. This will help avoid some pieces being overcooked while others are undercooked.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer for Sides

Using an air fryer for preparing side dishes offers numerous benefits that make it an ideal choice for quick, healthy, and delicious cooking. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Healthier Cooking
   One of the most significant benefits of an air fryer is its ability to cook food with little to no oil. Unlike traditional frying methods, which require submerging food in oil, air fryers use hot air circulation to achieve a crispy texture. This reduces the fat and calorie content, making air-fried sides a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or crunch.
   
2. Quicker Cooking Time
   Air fryers cook food much faster than conventional ovens. Because they utilize hot air that circulates quickly around the food, cooking times are reduced. This means you can prepare side dishes in a fraction of the time, making it easier to get meals on the table, especially on busy days.
   
3. Even Crispiness
   Thanks to the powerful air circulation, air fryers deliver an even crispiness to food. Whether you’re making fries, roasted vegetables, or crispy chickpeas, every bite is perfectly cooked, with a golden, crunchy exterior and a tender interior.
   
4. Less Mess and Easier Cleanup
   Air fryers generally require minimal oil, reducing the mess associated with traditional frying methods. Most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup quick and easy. No more splattered oil or greasy pans to clean after cooking.
   
5. Versatile Cooking
   Air fryers are incredibly versatile and can be used to make a variety of side dishes, from roasted vegetables and crispy potatoes to even baked goods. You can experiment with different ingredients and cooking techniques, expanding your side dish repertoire without needing multiple appliances.
   
6. Retains Nutrients
   Because air fryers cook quickly and use less oil, they help retain more of the nutrients in your food compared to traditional frying or roasting. Vegetables, in particular, maintain their vitamins and minerals, resulting in healthier meals overall.
   
7. Crispy Texture Without Deep Frying
   Air fryers are a fantastic way to achieve that signature crispy texture typically associated with deep-frying. Whether you’re making crispy zucchini fries, sweet potato wedges, or roasted Brussels sprouts, you can enjoy that crunch without the unhealthy fats from deep frying.
   
8. Energy Efficient
   Air fryers use less energy than traditional ovens because they cook faster and heat up quickly. This makes them more energy-efficient, reducing both cooking time and electricity usage.

In summary, air fryers offer a healthier, quicker, and more convenient way to prepare side dishes while still delivering the crispy, flavorful results that make side dishes so delicious. Whether you’re looking to cut down on oil, save time, or simply enjoy a variety of tasty options, an air fryer is an excellent tool for elevating your meals.

Conclusion

Air fryers are a game-changer when it comes to preparing healthy, flavorful, and crispy side dishes with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking to enjoy lighter versions of your favorite sides or simply want a quicker way to cook, an air fryer can help you achieve delicious results every time. With the versatility to create a variety of dishes and the added benefit of healthier cooking, it’s no wonder that air fryers have become an essential kitchen tool for so many.

For more tips, recipes, and inspiration to make the most of your air fryer, be sure to check out AirFryer Go. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll find everything you need to cook up amazing meals that everyone will love. Happy cooking!