10 Comforting One-Pot and Air Fryer Recipes for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Weeknight dinners shouldn’t be a hassle, and we’ve got just the solution with these 10 comforting one-pot and air fryer recipes. Each dish is designed to be simple and satisfying, perfect for keeping things cozy on busy nights without sacrificing flavor. Grab your favorite ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon

This honey mustard glazed salmon is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a delightful addition to your weeknight dinners. The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven or air fryer, giving the salmon a tasty, sticky coating that pairs perfectly with a side of roasted vegetables.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also super easy to whip up. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can serve a healthy and satisfying meal in no time.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in the air fryer basket. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the honey mustard glaze generously over the salmon fillets.
5. Bake in the oven for about 12-15 minutes or air fry for 8-10 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley before serving.

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Risotto

Creamy Garlic Mushroom Risotto is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. This dish offers a rich and velvety texture, combined with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and a hint of garlic that makes it both hearty and satisfying. It’s an easy recipe that requires minimal effort, perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

The best part? This risotto is made in just one pot, meaning fewer dishes to clean up afterward! It’s a simple, yet elegant meal that can impress your family or guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 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, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the broth in a saucepan over low heat and keep it warm.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft.
4. Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for about 2 minutes until the rice is slightly toasted.
5. Add the white wine (if using) and let it simmer until it’s mostly absorbed.
6. Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to be absorbed before adding the next. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
7. Once cooked, stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Air Fryer Lemon Herb Chicken

This Air Fryer Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that’s bursting with flavor! Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, making it a simple yet satisfying meal for any weeknight. The air fryer gives the chicken a crispy exterior while keeping it moist and tender inside.

The bright lemon flavor combined with aromatic herbs creates a fresh taste that pairs perfectly with your favorite sides. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and cooks in no time, making it ideal for busy evenings. Everyone will love this easy and delicious recipe!

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) 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, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
4. Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Beef and Broccoli Air Fryer Bowl

The Beef and Broccoli Air Fryer Bowl is a quick and tasty meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender beef, crisp broccoli, and vibrant peppers, this dish combines savory flavors that comfort and satisfy. Plus, cooking it in the air fryer makes cleanup a breeze and keeps the meal light and healthy.

This recipe is simple and ideal for those who want delicious food without spending hours in the kitchen. The air fryer helps to achieve that perfect tenderness while making the veggies crunchy and bright. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that’s not only delightful but also a hit with the whole family!

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked rice

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, mix the beef pieces with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
3. Cook the Beef: Place the marinated beef in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.
4. Add the Veggies: After 10 minutes, add the broccoli and red bell pepper to the basket. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and slightly crispy.
5. Serve: Spoon the beef and veggie mix over cooked rice and enjoy your delicious Beef and Broccoli Air Fryer Bowl!

Chickpea and Spinach Coconut Curry

This Chickpea and Spinach Coconut Curry is a delightful weeknight dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to for busy days. With the combination of chickpeas, fresh spinach, and a coconut milk base, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a nutritious meal that everyone will enjoy.

The spices in this curry balance perfectly with the sweetness of the coconut milk, creating a dish that’s satisfying and full of character. Plus, it comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add curry powder, stirring well to coat the onions. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Incorporate the chickpeas and let the mixture cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
5. Add the fresh spinach, stirring until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the curry over cooked rice and enjoy!

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu

This Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu is a colorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. It combines crisp vegetables and protein-packed tofu, all tossed in a savory sauce. The flavors are vibrant, making it a delightful meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

With just a few ingredients and a one-pot approach, you can whip this up in no time. It’s a great way to use whatever veggies you have on hand, and the tofu adds a wonderful texture that absorbs all the delicious flavors. Enjoy this healthy and hearty dish any night of the week!

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions

1. Press the tofu for about 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into cubes.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and garlic. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Add the tofu back to the skillet. Pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and ginger. Stir well to combine, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve hot.

Spicy Chicken and Rice Skillet

Spicy Chicken and Rice Skillet is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant peppers, and fluffy rice in one convenient pot. This recipe is packed with flavor, thanks to a blend of spices that adds a little kick to the dish. It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

This comforting meal is not just easy to make but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Gather your family around the table for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
3. Add the sliced bell pepper and rice to the skillet, stirring to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.

One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta

One-pot tomato basil pasta is a delightful, simple dish that captures the essence of comfort food. Bursting with the fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, it’s a meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. The creamy texture and savory notes make it a family favorite, while the minimal cleanup means you can enjoy more time at the table.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, using just one pot to cook the pasta and sauce together. The result is a flavorful, satisfying dish that feels gourmet without the fuss. It’s easy to make and requires only a handful of ingredients, making it a fantastic choice for any home cook.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or your choice of pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup vegetable broth or water
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the spaghetti, halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the vegetable broth or water to the pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh basil. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
5. Enjoy your one-pot tomato basil pasta warm, garnished with additional basil if you like.

Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Air Fryer Crispy Brussels Sprouts are a delightful and easy side dish that packs a punch of flavor. These little green gems become perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. With a light seasoning, they transform into a tasty treat that even those who typically shy away from Brussels sprouts will love.

This recipe is simple and quick, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknight dinners. You can whip them up in under 20 minutes, and they pair perfectly with almost any main dish. The air fryer gives them a satisfying crunch without the need for excessive oil, keeping them on the healthier side.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
4. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from the air fryer and drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa

Stuffed bell peppers are a fantastic way to blend wholesome ingredients into a colorful and satisfying meal. These bell peppers, filled with a savory mixture of quinoa, beans, and veggies, promise a burst of flavor in every bite. They’re not just tasty; they’re also simple to prepare, making them perfect for those busy weeknight dinners.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can customize the filling to suit your taste, whether you prefer a kick of spice or a more subtle flavor. Plus, they make for great leftovers, allowing you to enjoy a nutritious meal even on the go!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the quinoa, reduce heat to low, and cover. Cook for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. Spoon the quinoa mixture into each bell pepper, packing it in gently. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.