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

If time is tight and you’re in need of a delicious dinner solution, these 10 easy one-pot and air fryer recipes have you covered. They’re designed to whip up quickly, require minimal cleanup, and promise maximum flavor. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen but still want to enjoy a satisfying meal!

Air Fryer Crispy Chickpeas

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty snack, crispy chickpeas are a perfect choice. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and so easy to make in an air fryer! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that’s great for munching on during movie night or as a healthy addition to salads.

The best part? These chickpeas can be seasoned to your liking, whether you prefer a spicy kick or a savory herb blend. Plus, making them in an air fryer means they’re ready in no time, fitting perfectly into any busy weeknight.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chickpeas dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
3. In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Add the chickpeas to the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Let them cool for a few minutes before enjoying!

Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas

Chicken fajitas are a weeknight favorite that pack a punch with bold flavors. This air fryer version makes it super easy and quick, perfect for busy evenings. The combination of juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and spices creates a tasty meal that everyone will love.

Cooking in an air fryer not only gives you crispy edges but also cuts down on cooking time. You’ll be enjoying these savory fajitas in no time. Just toss everything in the air fryer and let it work its magic while you prepare your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• Tortillas for serving
• Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced chicken and bell peppers, tossing to coat evenly with the seasoning.
3. Place the chicken and pepper 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. Once cooked, remove the fajitas from the air fryer and serve them in warm tortillas. Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

One-Pot Mediterranean Quinoa

This One-Pot Mediterranean Quinoa is a delightful mix of flavors that transports your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. It combines fluffy quinoa with colorful veggies, olives, and tangy feta cheese, making it both vibrant and satisfying. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, with minimal cleanup and maximum taste!

This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, providing a healthy and filling option that can be on the table in no time. The combination of fresh ingredients offers a refreshing taste with every bite, making it a favorite in any household.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a pot, combine quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is fluffy.
2. Add Veggies: Once quinoa is cooked, stir in cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, black olives, red onion, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the veggies are slightly tender.
3. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle feta cheese on top, and give it a gentle stir. Serve warm and enjoy your healthy Mediterranean meal!

One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta

This One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta is a fun twist on classic taco night, blending all your favorite flavors into a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s packed with zesty spices, hearty pasta, and plenty of cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser everyone will enjoy.

Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it also minimizes cleanup since everything cooks in one pot. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (any shape)
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground meat over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the taco seasoning, broth, diced tomatoes, pasta, black beans, and corn. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked through, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the pasta is tender, stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, and enjoy!

One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Risotto

One-Pot Creamy Mushroom Risotto is a comforting dish that brings rich flavors and creamy texture to your dinner table. It’s simple to make and perfect for a weeknight meal, offering a warm embrace after a long day. The savory mushrooms pair wonderfully with the creamy rice, creating a satisfying dish that feels indulgent without the fuss.

This recipe requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy evenings. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious risotto that’s both creamy and packed with flavor. Perfect for mushroom lovers, it’s a dish that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are soft.
3. Stir in the Arborio rice, ensuring it’s well-coated with the oil and mixed with the mushrooms.
4. Gradually add the broth, one cup at a time, stirring frequently until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
5. After about 18-20 minutes, when the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Air Fryer Lemon Herb Salmon

If you’re craving a delicious and healthy dinner, Air Fryer Lemon Herb Salmon is the way to go! This dish combines the rich flavors of salmon with zesty lemon and fresh herbs, making it both refreshing and satisfying. It’s simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and cooks in a flash!

With just a few ingredients and the magic of the air fryer, you’ll have a meal that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete dinner that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them sit for about 15-30 minutes to soak up the flavors.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Salmon: Place the marinated salmon fillets in the air fryer basket, skin side down. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the salmon from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with your favorite sides.

Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken

Creamy Garlic Tuscan Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich, creamy sauce. The combination of garlic and herbs creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, this one-pot recipe means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!

Simple to prepare and quick to cook, this recipe is ideal for anyone looking to whip up something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta or rice, making it a versatile choice for dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and add the fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley. Enjoy with pasta or rice!

Air Fryer Vegetable Medley

This Air Fryer Vegetable Medley is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s quick to whip up. Packed with a variety of colorful veggies, it brings a delightful crunch and char that enhances their natural sweetness. You’ll find that this recipe is not only easy to make but also a fantastic way to use up whatever vegetables you have on hand.

The air frying process locks in the flavors while making the vegetables perfectly tender and a bit crispy on the edges. It’s a healthy option that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet tasty enough to impress your family or guests!

Ingredients

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 carrot, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, halved
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 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 veggies with olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.
3. Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned vegetables in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. Serve: Once they are tender and lightly browned, remove them from the air fryer. Enjoy your delicious vegetable medley warm, as a side or over grains for a complete meal!

Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic, and using an air fryer makes them even better! These colorful peppers are filled with a tasty mix of rice, black beans, and cheese, offering a delicious balance of flavors in every bite. They are simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and can be customized to include your favorite ingredients.

With just a little prep and a quick cook time, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time. The air fryer gives the peppers a lovely char while keeping the filling warm and gooey. Let’s get into how you can whip up this crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup salsa
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly coat the outside with olive oil.
2. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, black beans, salsa, cumin, garlic powder, and half of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Fill each bell pepper generously with the rice and bean mixture. Place them upright in the air fryer basket.
4. Air Fry: Cook the stuffed peppers in the air fryer for about 15 minutes. After 10 minutes, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and continue cooking until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve and Garnish: Carefully remove the peppers from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice

This One-Pot Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice dish is a quick and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, and zesty lemon creates a delightful balance that’s sure to impress your taste buds. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for effortless cooking.

The shrimp cook quickly, soaking up the lemony goodness while the rice absorbs all the delicious juices. This dish is not only tasty but also visually appealing with the vibrant colors of the shrimp against the fluffy rice. It’s a complete meal that requires minimal cleanup, leaving you more time to relax.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink, then remove from the pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add rice and stir for about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
5. Return the shrimp to the pot, stir gently, and let it warm through for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.