10 Easy One-Pot and Air Fryer Recipes Kids Will Devour

Cooking for kids can be a challenge, especially when you want to keep things tidy and quick. These 10 mess-free one-pot and air fryer recipes make mealtime a breeze, delivering tasty dishes that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. Say goodbye to long clean-ups and hello to fun, flavorful meals the whole family can appreciate!

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Crispy air fryer chicken tenders are a quick and tasty option that kids will absolutely love. These tenders are perfectly crunchy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. Plus, making them is super simple, requiring minimal prep and just a few ingredients.

Using an air fryer means less oil and mess, making it a kid-friendly option for busy weeknights. You can serve them with various dipping sauces and fresh veggies for a balanced meal. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the Coating: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Set Up: In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken tender into the eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer and spray lightly with cooking spray. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces and some crunchy veggies!

Air Fryer Mini Veggie Pizzas

Air Fryer Mini Veggie Pizzas are a hit for kids and parents alike! They’re fun, simple to make, and packed with colorful veggies, making them a great choice for picky eaters. The crispy air-fried crust topped with gooey cheese and fresh toppings is hard to resist.

This recipe allows you to customize each mini pizza with your child’s favorite ingredients. Plus, they cook quickly in the air fryer, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a delicious meal together.

Ingredients

• 4 mini pizza crusts (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pizza Base: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Spread a layer of pizza sauce evenly over each mini pizza crust.
2. Add the Toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce. Layer the cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, and red onion over the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Air Fry: Place the mini pizzas in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the pizzas from the air fryer. Top with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious mini veggie pizzas!

Cheesy Spinach and Chicken Pasta Bake

This Cheesy Spinach and Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines creamy cheese, tender chicken, and nutritious spinach all in one pot. The cheesy goodness makes it a hit with kids, while the spinach adds a healthy twist that parents will appreciate. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

The best part? Cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one pot! This meal is sure to become a family favorite with its cheesy, comforting flavors and easy preparation.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (any shape)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, combine the pasta, chicken, spinach, chicken broth, and milk. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until the pasta is tender.
4. Stir in 1.5 cups of cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese Croutons

This creamy tomato basil soup is a delightful combination of rich flavors and comforting textures that kids will adore. It’s easy to whip up and perfect for busy days when you want to serve something both nutritious and satisfying. The vibrant taste of fresh basil brings the soup to life, while the addition of grilled cheese croutons makes it an instant hit.

Not only is this dish simple to make, but it also transforms lunch or dinner into a fun experience. The cheesy croutons are a playful twist on classic grilled cheese, adding a crunchy element that pairs wonderfully with the smooth soup. Perfect for dipping, this meal will become a family favorite in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of bread
• 4 slices of cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• Butter for grilling

Instructions

1. In a pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until translucent.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium heat. Butter one side of each bread slice, and place cheese between two slices to make sandwiches.
5. Grill the sandwiches until golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted. Cut into crouton-sized squares.
6. Serve the soup hot, topped with grilled cheese croutons and a sprinkle of fresh basil.

Sweet and Sour Air Fryer Chicken

This Sweet and Sour Air Fryer Chicken is a fun and tasty dish that kids can’t resist. With its tangy sauce and crunchy veggies, it’s not just delicious but also quick to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

The combination of tender chicken pieces, juicy pineapple, and vibrant bell peppers creates a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, using the air fryer helps keep things mess-free and easy, so you can spend more time enjoying dinner with the family!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with soy sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, and chopped bell pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
4. Air Fry the Mixture: Place the mixture in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
5. Add the Sauce: Once cooked, toss the chicken and vegetables with sweet and sour sauce in a large bowl. Serve warm over rice or noodles.

Air Fryer Veggie Fritters with Yogurt Dip

These Air Fryer Veggie Fritters are a fun and tasty way to get kids excited about eating their vegetables. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they are bursting with flavor and nutrition. Plus, they are super simple to make, making them a great choice for busy parents.

Pair these fritters with a creamy yogurt dip for an extra delicious touch. It’s a perfect snack or side dish that kids will love, and you won’t have to worry about a messy cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1 cup grated zucchini
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the Veggies: Grate the zucchini and carrots, then squeeze out the excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
2. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the grated veggies, chopped spinach, flour, eggs, garlic powder, cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat up for about 5 minutes.
4. Shape the Fritters: Using your hands, form small patties from the veggie mixture and place them on a plate.
5. Air Fry: Lightly spray the fritters with cooking spray and place them in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown, turning halfway through.
6. Make the Dip: While the fritters are cooking, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, and dill in a small bowl until smooth.
7. Serve: Once cooked, serve the fritters warm with the yogurt dip on the side.

One-Pot Taco Rice Skillet

The One-Pot Taco Rice Skillet is a fun and tasty dish that kids will love! With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it offers a delightful blend of spices and textures. This meal is not only simple to prepare but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. Plus, minimal cleanup is always a win in a busy kitchen!

Combining rice, black beans, bell peppers, and delicious taco seasoning, this dish is a hit at the dinner table. Everyone will enjoy customizing their servings with toppings like avocado, cheese, or salsa. It’s a hands-on meal that makes dinner time exciting for kids!

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Avocado slices, for topping

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the rice to the skillet and stir for about 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, black beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork, season with salt and pepper, and serve topped with fresh cilantro and avocado slices.

One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa

This One-Pot Cheesy Broccoli Quinoa is a delightful dish that’s perfect for kids and easy on busy parents. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with nutrition, making it a great alternative to traditional mac and cheese. Plus, the vibrant colors of the broccoli and carrots make it visually appealing for little ones!

Making this recipe is a breeze. Just toss everything into one pot and let it simmer. In no time, you’ll have a wholesome meal that’s ready to serve. It’s cheesy goodness without the mess, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed quinoa, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli and carrots, stirring them into the quinoa. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Serve warm, and enjoy!

One-Pot Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry

This One-Pot Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a quick, delicious meal that kids will absolutely love. Packed with tender beef and colorful veggies, it’s not just tasty but also visually appealing. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

The bold flavors from the sauce complement the freshness of the vegetables, creating a satisfying dish that’s both healthy and hearty. With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy family time without the stress of a messy kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
• 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, and green)
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, toss the beef strips with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the bell peppers and carrots, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is cooked through.
4. Add Snap Peas: Toss in the snap peas and stir everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
5. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot. Enjoy this flavorful meal with rice or noodles!

Air Fryer Banana Oatmeal Cookies

Air Fryer Banana Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with wholesome oats. These cookies have a chewy texture and a hint of nuttiness, making them a favorite for both kids and adults. Plus, they are incredibly easy to whip up, requiring just a few simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.

These cookies come together quickly in one bowl, minimizing cleanup and mess. The air fryer gives them a perfectly baked finish while keeping them soft and chewy inside. They make for a great snack or dessert, and are a wonderful way to use up overripe bananas!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup peanut butter or almond butter
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips or nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, rolled oats, nut butter, honey, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips or nuts.
2. Shape the Cookies: Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out small amounts of the cookie mixture and form them into balls. Flatten them slightly to create cookie shapes.
3. Air Fry the Cookies: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
4. Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy your deliciously healthy banana oatmeal cookies!