11 Easy One-Pot and Air Fryer Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Life can get busy, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice great meals. Here are 11 comforting one-pot and air fryer recipes that are quick, easy, and perfect for those hectic days. Each dish is designed to give you delicious flavors and minimal cleanup, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

Air Fryer BBQ Meatballs

Air fryer BBQ meatballs are the perfect blend of juicy and tangy, making them a delightful choice for busy weeknights. This dish is super simple to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time while delivering bold flavors that everyone will love.

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these savory meatballs in no time. They crisp up beautifully in the air fryer, and the BBQ sauce gives them a deliciously sticky glaze. Serve them as an appetizer or toss them in a bun for a quick sandwich!

Quick Air Fryer Vegetable Medley

This Quick Air Fryer Vegetable Medley is the perfect solution for busy days when you want something healthy and delicious without a lot of fuss. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make every bite enjoyable, and the best part is that it cooks in just minutes!

Using seasonal vegetables, this dish combines the natural sweetness of peppers, zucchini, and squash, all roasted to perfection. It’s a simple, no-fuss recipe that will brighten up your table and can easily be paired with your favorite protein or enjoyed on its own as a light meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 1 cup yellow squash, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
2. Season: In a large bowl, combine the diced vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the vegetable mixture in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
4. Serve: Once the vegetables are tender and slightly charred, remove them from the air fryer. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Air Fryer Crispy Lemon Herb Chicken

Looking for a quick, tasty dinner? This Air Fryer Crispy Lemon Herb Chicken is a fantastic choice! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a zesty lemon herb blend, making each bite bursting with flavor. Plus, the air fryer ensures that the chicken comes out crispy on the outside while remaining tender and moist inside. It’s simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights!

This recipe not only saves time but also keeps the dish healthier compared to traditional frying. The combination of lemon and herbs gives it a fresh taste that’s incredibly satisfying. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them in the marinade. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and let it heat up for about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook for 25-30 minutes until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve with your favorite sides!

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

This Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy days. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with tender broccoli, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or meal prepping for the week.

The combination of gooey cheese and the wholesome flavor of broccoli creates a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. You can whip this up in no time, making it the ultimate one-pot wonder!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for breadcrumbs)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. If using, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top for a crunchy finish.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
5. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting casserole!

Satisfying One-Pot Chicken and Rice

This one-pot chicken and rice dish is a cozy meal that brings comfort to your dinner table. Tender chicken legs are cooked to perfection with fluffy rice, making it a flavorful and satisfying option for busy weeknights. The combination of spices creates a warm aroma that fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around.

What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Everything cooks in one pot, minimizing cleanup and saving you time. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
2. Season the chicken drumsticks with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin. Add them to the pot and brown on all sides.
3. Once the chicken is browned, stir in the diced bell pepper and rice, mixing well to coat the rice.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Hearty Vegetable and Lentil Stew

This Hearty Vegetable and Lentil Stew is a warm hug in a bowl. Packed with vibrant vegetables and protein-rich lentils, it’s not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying. The blend of flavors creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy days.

With minimal prep and one pot to clean, this stew is as simple as it gets. Just chop your veggies, toss everything in, and let it simmer. The result is a delicious meal that can be enjoyed right away or saved for leftovers!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add garlic and red bell pepper, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in zucchini, diced tomatoes, lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
5. Adjust seasoning if necessary and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This creamy garlic parmesan pasta is a perfect blend of rich flavors and simplicity. It’s comforting, quick to prepare, and sure to please anyone at the dinner table. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the pasta, delivering a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet is easy enough for a weeknight.

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time. The garlic brings warmth, while the parmesan adds a lovely nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this recipe is a fantastic go-to for busy days.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Gradually mix in the parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine: Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan, if desired. Enjoy!

One-Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Soup

This One-Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With its vibrant tomatoes and fragrant basil, it balances sweetness and spice perfectly. It’s super easy to make, making it the ideal choice for busy days when you need comfort food without the fuss.

You’ll love how quickly everything comes together, usually in about 30 minutes. This soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a crunchy piece of bread for dipping. Plus, it’s a great recipe to customize with your favorite spices or toppings!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped basil and cream (if using). Blend with an immersion blender for a smoother texture, or enjoy it chunky.
5. Serve warm, garnished with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of cream if desired.

Savory One-Pot Chili

This one-pot chili is a cozy dish that’s both hearty and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something satisfying without spending all day in the kitchen. With a mix of spices, beans, and vegetables, you’ll enjoy a warm and comforting meal that the whole family will love.

The recipe is straightforward, making it a breeze to whip up after a long day. Just toss everything into the pot and let it simmer while you unwind. Serve it with some cornbread on the side, and you have a delicious dinner ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground meat over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot with your choice of toppings and enjoy!

Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a tasty and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights. Using an air fryer makes the process even easier, allowing you to whip up a delicious dish in no time. The combination of savory ground meat, rice, and spices wrapped in colorful bell peppers creates a comforting and flavorful experience that everyone will enjoy.

This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for those who want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The air fryer ensures the peppers are perfectly tender while keeping the filling moist and flavorful, making it a go-to for any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Set aside.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the ground meat, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper with the meat mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
4. Air Fry: Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket and cook at 370°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
5. Serve: Let the peppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious air fryer stuffed bell peppers!

Quick One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Risotto

This Quick One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Risotto is the perfect comfort dish for a busy day. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with the earthy flavors of mushrooms. The best part? You can whip it up in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

The risotto features a delightful creamy texture with perfectly cooked rice that absorbs all the flavors, making it a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to make, even if you’re not an experienced cook. Just a few ingredients and a little time is all you need!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.
2. Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender.
3. Add Arborio rice, stirring to coat the grains with oil. If using, pour in the white wine and let it cook down.
4. Gradually add vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the rice to absorb most of the liquid before adding more.
5. Continue until the rice is creamy and al dente, around 18-20 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.