11 Quick One-Pot and Air Fryer Recipes Kids Can’t Resist

Getting kids to enjoy mealtime can be a challenge, but with these 11 quick one-pot and air fryer recipes, you’ll have delicious options that make cooking a breeze. Perfect for busy days, these meals are not only kid-friendly but also easy to whip up, cutting down on cleanup time. Dive in and find your new family favorites!

Vegetable Fried Rice

Vegetable Fried Rice is a colorful and delicious dish that is super easy to whip up. It’s packed with fresh veggies like peas and bell peppers, making it both nutritious and appealing to kids. The combination of flavors is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, and the best part is you can make it all in one pot!

This dish is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and veggies!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 eggs, boiled and sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
2. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir well to combine with the veggies. Pour in the soy sauce and mix thoroughly.
3. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and top with sliced boiled eggs and chopped green onions before serving.

Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders

These Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders are a kid-approved favorite that anyone can whip up in no time. They are juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside, making them a hit for lunch or dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious meal that’s fun to eat!

The best part? Cooking them in an air fryer means less oil, but still achieving that satisfying crunch everyone loves. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
2. Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, place the flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In another bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
3. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender in flour, dip it in the egg, then coat it in breadcrumbs. Make sure they’re evenly covered.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Cook: Spray the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve: Let the tenders cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

One-Pot Taco Mac and Cheese

One-Pot Taco Mac and Cheese is a fun and delicious twist on the classic mac and cheese dish. This recipe combines cheesy pasta with taco flavors that kids love. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with a delightful kick, making it a winner for family dinners!

What makes this dish even better is how easy it is to prepare. Everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup for you. In no time, you’ll have a satisfying meal that will have the kids asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef: In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Ingredients: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and macaroni. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
3. Cook the Pasta: Cover and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Mix in Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and sour cream until well combined.
5. Season & Serve: Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Top with chopped green onions before serving!

Air Fryer Pizza Bites

Air Fryer Pizza Bites are a fun and tasty treat that kids absolutely adore! These bite-sized snacks pack all the flavors of pizza into a crispy, golden crust. They’re simple to make, requiring minimal prep time, which makes them perfect for busy days or after-school snacks.

Each bite offers a delightful combination of gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and a hint of herbs, making them a hit at family gatherings or movie nights. Plus, you can customize the fillings to fit your kids’ tastes, whether they prefer extra cheese or a veggie twist!

Ingredients

• 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
• 1/4 cup pizza sauce (for dipping)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface and cut it into small circles, about 3 inches wide.
3. Place a small amount of mozzarella cheese and a couple of pepperoni slices in the center of each dough circle. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
4. Fold the dough over to create a pocket, sealing the edges by pressing them together.
5. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the pizza bites in a single layer. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
6. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve with warm pizza sauce for dipping and enjoy!

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Rice is a kid-friendly dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheddar cheese all in one pot. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal that kids will love. With its cheesy goodness and nutritious veggies, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and cook until no longer pink.
2. Add the Orzo: Stir in the uncooked orzo and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the orzo is tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add Broccoli: Mix in the broccoli florets, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender.
4. Cheese It Up: Remove the pot from heat, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Serve: Spoon into bowls and enjoy this cheesy, delightful dish!

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a tasty and healthier alternative to regular fries. They have a natural sweetness and a crispy texture that kids will love. Making them in an air fryer is super easy, cutting down on oil while still delivering that satisfying crunch everyone craves.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend snacks. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these delicious fries quickly. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch as your kids devour them!

Ingredients

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into thin fries, about 1/4 inch thick.
2. Season: In a large bowl, combine the sweet potato fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
4. Cook: Place the sweet potato fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
5. Serve: Once they are crispy and golden, remove the fries from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

This creamy tomato basil soup is a warm and comforting dish that kids will love. It’s bursting with flavor, combining sweet tomatoes with aromatic basil for a delicious experience. Plus, it’s super easy to make, requiring just one pot to whip up, making clean-up a breeze!

Perfect for chilly days or a quick dinner, this soup can be served on its own or paired with some crusty bread for dipping. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping mealtime exciting!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, you can transfer it to a blender in batches.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and heat through. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves, and enjoy with crusty bread!

Mini Meatball Pasta

Mini Meatball Pasta brings a smile to every kid’s face! This dish combines juicy meatballs and pasta in a rich, flavorful sauce that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The best part? It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.

The taste is a delightful mix of savory and hearty, with tender meatballs nestled among perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s simple to make, allowing you to whip up a comforting family dinner in no time.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs: In a bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
2. Cook the Meatballs: In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Pasta: In the same pot, add the spaghetti and pour in the marinara sauce along with enough water to cover the pasta. Bring to a boil and cook according to package instructions until the pasta is al dente.
4. Combine: Add the meatballs back into the pot and stir gently to coat everything in the sauce. Cook for an additional few minutes until heated through.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious mini meatball pasta!

Air Fryer Chicken Quesadillas

Air Fryer Chicken Quesadillas are a fun and tasty meal option that kids absolutely adore. These crispy, cheesy delights are easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or quick snacks. With a golden, crunchy exterior and gooey melted cheese inside, they bring a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Not only do these quesadillas taste amazing, but they also allow for customization. You can load them up with your child’s favorite ingredients, making it easy to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, using an air fryer means you get that delicious crunch without the need for excess oil, keeping the meal on the healthier side!

Ingredients

• 2 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1/4 cup onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
• Cooking spray or olive oil
• Salsa for dipping

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with taco seasoning, bell peppers, and onion.
3. Lay one tortilla in the air fryer basket. Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly over the tortilla, then sprinkle half of the cheese on top. Cover with the second tortilla.
4. Lightly spray the top tortilla with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
6. Remove from the air fryer, let cool for a minute, then slice into wedges and serve with salsa.

One-Pot Cheesy Quinoa and Spinach

This One-Pot Cheesy Quinoa and Spinach dish is a fantastic meal that combines health and flavor in a simple way. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutritious spinach, making it a fantastic choice for kids and adults alike. The quinoa adds a lovely nutty flavor and a good source of protein, while the cheese makes it irresistibly gooey and delicious.

What’s great about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. You can have a hearty meal on the table in no time, with hardly any cleanup thanks to the one-pot method. Perfect for busy weeknights or a lazy weekend lunch!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
2. Stir in the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until quinoa is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
3. Fold in the chopped spinach and shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the spinach is wilted.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!

One-Pot Macaroni and Cheese with Peas

This One-Pot Macaroni and Cheese with Peas is a quick and delightful meal that kids will absolutely adore. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it brings together the comfort of classic mac and cheese with the added nutrition of peas. Plus, it’s super easy to make, requiring just one pot for cooking, which means less cleanup time for busy parents!

The taste is rich and savory, while the peas add a nice pop of sweetness and a splash of color to the dish. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Your kids will love it, and you’ll love how simple it is!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the elbow macaroni and vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the broth is absorbed.
3. Stir in the butter, milk, garlic powder, and shredded cheese until smooth. Mix in the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and broil for a few minutes until golden brown.
5. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy goodness!