Are you looking for delicious and healthy recipes that will make your kids jump for joy? Look no further! In this article, we have rounded up six amazing air fryer recipes that are perfect for kids and will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. These recipes are not only tasty but also easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy parents. So, let's dive in and explore these family-friendly favourites!
1. Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets:
These homemade chicken nuggets are a healthier alternative to store-bought ones. Air frying gives them a crispy texture without the excess oil, making them a guilt-free treat. The delicious blend of spices adds a burst of flavour that will have your kids asking for more!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs
Method:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
5. Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, then coat them with the bread crumb mixture.
6. Place the coated chicken nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
7. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are golden brown and cooked through.
2. Cheesy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls:
Pizza rolls are always a hit with kids, and this air fryer version takes them to a whole new level. The air frying process gives the rolls a crispy exterior while keeping the filling warm and gooey. They are perfect for a quick and delicious snack or as a lunchbox treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Method:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough and cut it into small squares.
3. Spread a teaspoon of pizza sauce onto each square.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
5. If desired, place a slice of pepperoni on each square.
6. Fold the squares in half, sealing the edges.
7. Place the pizza rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
8. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
9. Sprinkle dried oregano on top and serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
3. Crispy Air Fryer French Fries:
French fries are a classic favorite among kids, and air frying gives them a healthier twist. These crispy fries have a perfect golden exterior with a fluffy interior, making them irresistible. Plus, the added spices elevate the flavour, making them a tasty side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Ketchup (for serving)
Method:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin strips.
3. Place the potato strips in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
5. Toss the potato strips in the oil mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
6. Place the seasoned potato strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
7. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are crispy and golden brown.
8. Serve with ketchup or any dipping sauce of your choice.
4. Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks:
Mozzarella sticks are a popular appetizer, and making them in the air fryer allows for a healthier version without compromising on taste. The crunchy outer layer and gooey melted cheese inside make them an irresistible treat for kids. They are perfect for parties or as a delicious after-school snack.
Ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Method:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the mozzarella sticks in half.
3. Place the flour, beaten eggs, and bread crumbs mixed with Italian seasoning in separate bowls.
4. Coat each mozzarella stick half in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and roll it in the bread crumb mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
5. Place the coated mozzarella sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the sticks are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
5. Air Fryer Veggie Nuggets:
Getting kids to eat their vegetables can sometimes be a challenge, but these air fryer veggie nuggets make it fun and enjoyable. Packed with nutritious vegetables and flavorful seasonings, these nuggets have a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. They are a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while keeping the kids happy!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, broccoli), cooked and mashed
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
Method:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the mashed vegetables, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Shape the mixture into small nuggets.
4. Roll each nugget in flour, dip it in the beaten egg, and then coat it with bread crumbs.
5. Place the coated veggie nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the nuggets are crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve with ketchup or a dipping sauce of your choice.
6. Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes:
Who can resist warm, bite-sized donut holes? These air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes are a delightful treat for kids. The fluffy texture, combined with the sweet cinnamon sugar coating, creates a mouthwatering dessert. They are perfect for breakfast or as a special snack for kids of all ages.
Ingredients:
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Method:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut each biscuit into four pieces and roll them into small balls.
3. Place the biscuit balls in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the donut holes are golden brown and cooked through.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon.
6. Brush the cooked donut holes with melted butter and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until coated.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
With these six fantastic air fryer recipes, you can keep your kids happy and satisfied while ensuring they enjoy nutritious meals. From crispy chicken nuggets to cheesy pizza rolls and flavorful veggie nuggets, these recipes cater to the taste buds of Indian kids. The air fryer not only reduces the need for excess oil but also ensures a crispy and delicious outcome every time. So, grab your air fryer and get cooking these family-friendly favourites that will bring smiles to your little ones' faces!