10 Quick One-Pot and Air Fryer Recipes for Ultimate Convenience

If you’re juggling a busy schedule but still crave delicious home-cooked meals, these 10 quick one-pot and air fryer recipes are here to save the day! Perfect for any hectic lifestyle, these dishes require minimal effort and cleanup without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to whip up tasty meals that fit right into your chaotic routine!

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs

Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs are a tasty and easy meal perfect for busy people. The chicken turns out juicy with a crispy exterior, topped with a delicious BBQ sauce that adds a sweet and tangy kick. This recipe is simple to follow, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner.

You’ll love how quickly these thighs come together—just season, air fry, and enjoy! They are versatile enough to serve with a side salad, rice, or veggies. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
5. Brush BBQ sauce over the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce is caramelized.
6. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

One-Pot Creamy Chicken Alfredo

This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Alfredo is your go-to solution for busy weeknights when you’re craving something comforting and delicious. With tender chicken, rich cream, and perfectly cooked pasta, it brings a taste of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen without the fuss. Plus, you only need one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

The creamy sauce clings to every noodle, creating a satisfying meal that can be ready in about 30 minutes. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet fancy enough to impress guests. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 8 ounces fettuccine or pasta of choice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

One-Pot Spinach and Feta Rice

One-pot spinach and feta rice is a delightful dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures. The soothing taste of spinach mingles with the creamy, tangy feta, creating a comforting meal that is both hearty and refreshing. It’s simple to make and requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy days.

This dish is not just quick but also versatile. You can enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a side. It’s a great way to sneak in greens while pleasing your taste buds. Ready to whip it up? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup rice (white or brown)
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and oregano, cooking for another minute.
2. Add rice to the pot, stirring to coat it with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
3. Pour in vegetable broth or water, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fold in the chopped spinach and crumbled feta. Cover and let it sit for an additional 5 minutes to allow the spinach to wilt and the feta to soften.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm. Enjoy your one-pot meal!

Air Fryer Crispy Lemon Garlic Shrimp

These Air Fryer Crispy Lemon Garlic Shrimp are a game-changer for busy weeknights! With a bright, zesty flavor and a satisfying crunch, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. You’ll love how quickly the shrimp cook up in the air fryer, making it a go-to recipe when you’re short on time.

The combination of garlic and lemon creates a fresh and vibrant taste, perfect for impressing family or guests. Plus, you’ll only need a handful of ingredients to whip this up!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Place the marinated shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. Garnish and Serve: Once the shrimp are cooked through and crispy, garnish with chopped parsley and serve with extra lemon wedges on the side.

One-Pot Cheesy Quinoa and Broccoli

This One-Pot Cheesy Quinoa and Broccoli recipe is a comforting dish that’s perfect for those busy weeknights. It combines fluffy quinoa with tender broccoli and a creamy cheese sauce, creating a delightful and savory flavor that everyone will love. Plus, it’s super easy to make—just one pot is all you need!

This recipe is not just quick; it’s also nutritious, packed with protein and vitamins. The combination of quinoa and broccoli offers a wholesome meal that feels indulgent but is actually healthy. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a great way to get dinner on the table without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed quinoa and toast for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli florets on top of the quinoa, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the broccoli is bright and tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy, wholesome meal!

One-Pot Spaghetti with Meatballs

One-Pot Spaghetti with Meatballs is the ultimate comfort food that delivers rich flavors without a lot of fuss. The pasta cooks right in the sauce, soaking up all the deliciousness, while tender meatballs add that satisfying protein kick. It’s a simple, one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

With minimal cleanup and straightforward steps, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time. This recipe combines classic Italian flavors that everyone loves, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs or extra veggies for added nutrition.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 3 cups water
• 12 ounces spaghetti
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs: In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Shape into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Cook the Meatballs: In a large pot or deep skillet, add marinara sauce and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Gently place the meatballs in the sauce.
3. Add the Pasta: Once the meatballs are simmering, add the spaghetti. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
4. Finish Up: Once cooked, check that the meatballs are cooked through. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil.

Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a fun and healthy way to get a filling meal on the table quickly. Using an air fryer cuts down on cooking time and keeps the peppers tender while adding a delightful char. The combination of savory filling and sweet peppers creates a delicious taste that everyone will enjoy.

This recipe is simple and perfect for busy weeknights. You can stuff the peppers with a variety of ingredients, making it easy to customize to your family’s preferences. It’s a one-pot meal that looks great and tastes even better!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 pound ground turkey or beef
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, ground turkey or beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the mixture, packing it in gently. If desired, top with shredded cheese.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Remove the peppers from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon

Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon is a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The salmon is coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer, giving it a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flaky. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also brings a burst of flavor that will please everyone at the dinner table.

With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up this meal in under 30 minutes. It pairs well with rice or steamed vegetables, making it a versatile option for any meal. Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade teriyaki sauce without the fuss of traditional cooking methods!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon: In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Place the salmon fillets in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Salmon: Place the marinated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
4. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the salmon. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu

Vegetable stir-fry with tofu is a vibrant, quick dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The mix of colorful veggies and the protein from tofu create a satisfying meal that’s both light and fulfilling. It’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

This dish is not only tasty but also customizable. You can switch up the vegetables or sauce based on what you have on hand or what you enjoy. It’s a great way to use up leftover produce while keeping your meal healthy.

Ingredients

• 1 block of firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Tofu: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Add the cubed tofu and let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook Tofu: Add the tofu to the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
4. Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same skillet, add garlic, ginger, and all the vegetables. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp.
5. Combine: Return the tofu to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and stir everything together for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve: Serve hot over rice or noodles, and enjoy your quick, healthy meal!

One-Pot Chickpea Curry

This One-Pot Chickpea Curry is a quick and comforting dish packed with flavors. It’s creamy, mildly spiced, and full of wholesome ingredients that make it a favorite for both busy weeknights and cozy weekends.

The best part? It’s super easy to whip up in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. With chickpeas, tomatoes, and a touch of coconut milk, this curry offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Perfect for serving over rice or with warm naan, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cilantro for garnish
• Cooked rice or naan for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the curry powder and cumin, stirring well before adding the diced tomatoes and chickpeas.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Once done, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.