20 Delicious Instant Pot Air Fryer Recipes Easy-to-Make

Craving crispy, flavorful meals without the fuss? Your Instant Pot Air Fryer is about to become your kitchen MVP! From golden fried chicken to melt-in-your-mouth roasted veggies, we’ve rounded up 20 easy, drool-worthy recipes that deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re whipping up weeknight dinners or cozy comfort food, these dishes are sure to impress. Ready to transform your cooking game? Let’s dive in!

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

These wings come out perfectly crispy without the mess of deep frying—just toss, air fry, and enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels—this helps them crisp up.
2. In a large bowl, toss the wings with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (if using) until evenly coated.
3. Arrange wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes, flip, then cook another 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy.
4. Let rest 2 minutes before serving—trust us, they’re worth the wait!

The magic here? No flour or breading needed—just spices and hot air for wings so crunchy, no one will believe they’re not fried.

Tip: For extra-crispy skin, spritz the wings lightly with cooking spray before air frying.

Instant Pot Air Fryer Roasted Vegetables

These veggies get irresistibly crispy edges while staying tender inside—thanks to the magic of your Instant Pot’s air fryer lid!

Ingredients:

• 1 small head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 3 cups)
• 2 medium carrots, sliced into 1/2-inch coins
• 1 small zucchini, halved and sliced 1/4-inch thick
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 3/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss broccoli, carrots, and zucchini with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 3/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper in a large bowl until evenly coated.
2. Arrange vegetables in a single layer in the Instant Pot’s air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
3. Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until veggies are caramelized at the edges and fork-tender.

The high heat and rapid air circulation give these veggies a roasted depth usually only achieved in a traditional oven—but in half the time!

Tip: For extra crunch, spritz the veggies with a little extra oil before the final 2 minutes of cooking.

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—these sweet potato fries are a game-changer for weeknight sides or snack attacks.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch sticks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F for 3 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potato sticks with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Arrange fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed). Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until edges are caramelized and crispy.

The smoky paprika and caramelized edges make these fries irresistible—no ketchup required!

Tip: For extra crispiness, soak the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before drying thoroughly and seasoning.

Instant Pot Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

This garlic parmesan shrimp is a quick, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights—crispy, buttery, and ready in under 15 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer function of your Instant Pot to 400°F for 3 minutes.
2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with melted butter, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until the shrimp are pink and slightly crispy.
4. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

The magic here? The air fryer gives the shrimp a light crispiness while keeping them juicy, and the garlic-parmesan combo is downright addictive.

Tip: Serve over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the extra garlic butter!

Air Fryer BBQ Pork Chops

These juicy pork chops get a smoky-sweet kick from a simple BBQ glaze and cook up perfectly tender in the air fryer—no grill required!

Ingredients

• 2 bone-in pork chops (about 1-inch thick)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/3 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)

Instructions

1. Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with 1 tbsp olive oil.
2. In a small bowl, mix 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Rub evenly over the chops.
3. Preheat air fryer to 380°F. Arrange chops in a single layer and cook for 8 minutes.
4. Flip chops, brush with 1/3 cup BBQ sauce, and cook another 6–8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5. Let rest 5 minutes before serving with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

The air fryer locks in moisture while caramelizing the glaze into a sticky, finger-licking crust—no drying out here!

Tip: For extra char, broil the sauced chops for 1–2 minutes after air frying.

Instant Pot Air Fryer Honey Glazed Salmon

This sweet and sticky salmon comes together in minutes, with the air fryer giving it a perfectly crisp edge while keeping the inside tender.

Ingredients:

• 4 (6-oz) salmon fillets, skin-on
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
2. Pat salmon fillets dry, then brush both sides generously with the glaze.
3. Place salmon skin-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving space between fillets. Air fry at 390°F for 8-10 minutes, brushing with extra glaze halfway through, until the edges are caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
4. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The magic here is the air fryer’s high heat, which locks in the honey glaze into a glossy, crackly crust while the salmon stays flaky. No flipping required!

Tip: For extra depth, add a squeeze of lime over the cooked salmon—it balances the sweetness beautifully.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

These golden, crunchy chicken tenders are a weeknight hero—ready in under 20 minutes with zero fuss and all the satisfaction of deep-fried goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Prep the coating: In a shallow bowl, mix 1 cup panko, 1/3 cup Parmesan, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil and toss until crumbs are evenly coated.
2. Dredge: Whisk the egg in a separate bowl. Dip each chicken tender into the egg, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the panko mixture to coat all sides.
3. Air fry: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange tenders in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F.

The magic here? The Parmesan-panko mix creates an extra-crunchy crust that stays crisp even after cooling—perfect for packing into lunches or serving with dipping sauces.

Tip: For extra browning, spritz the breaded tenders lightly with cooking spray before air frying.

Instant Pot Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers

These stuffed bell peppers are a weeknight lifesaver—packed with savory filling and ready in a flash thanks to your Instant Pot and air fryer!

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Brown the ground beef with the diced yellow onion until no pink remains, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
2. Stir in the cooked white rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
3. Pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot. Stuff the bell peppers with the beef mixture, then place them upright in the pot.
4. Seal the lid, set to High Pressure for 5 minutes. Quick-release the pressure when done.
5. Carefully transfer the peppers to the air fryer basket. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and air fry at 375°F for 3–4 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.

The air fryer finish gives these peppers a crispy-cheesy top while keeping the filling juicy—no soggy bottoms here!

Tip: For a vegetarian twist, swap the beef for quinoa and black beans.

Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

These zucchini chips are the perfect crunchy, guilt-free snack—easy to make and packed with flavor!

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix 1/2 cup Parmesan, 1/2 cup panko, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
3. Dip zucchini slices in the beaten egg, then coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Arrange slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed). Lightly spray with olive oil.
5. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

The Parmesan-panko crust gives these chips an irresistible crunch without deep frying—they disappear fast!

Tip: For extra crispiness, let the coated slices sit for 5 minutes before air frying.

Instant Pot Air Fryer Steak Bites

These juicy, garlicky steak bites come together in minutes with the magic of your Instant Pot’s air fryer lid—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss steak cubes with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper until evenly coated.
2. Preheat the Instant Pot with the air fryer lid to 400°F for 3 minutes. Add steak bites in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
3. Air fry at 400°F for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until edges are crispy and internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare.
4. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh parsley and serve immediately.

The high heat locks in the steak’s juices while giving it a satisfying sear—no stovetop splatter required!

Tip: For extra flavor, let the steak marinate in the seasoning mix for 15–30 minutes before cooking.

Air Fryer Cauliflower Buffalo Bites

These crispy, spicy bites are the perfect game-day snack or guilt-free appetizer—packed with bold flavor and ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 tbsp melted butter
• 1/2 tsp honey (optional, to balance heat)

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F. In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 cup water, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and 1/2 tsp salt until smooth.
2. Toss cauliflower florets in the batter until evenly coated. Shake off excess and arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
3. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Meanwhile, mix 1/2 cup buffalo sauce, 1 tbsp melted butter, and 1/2 tsp honey (if using) in a bowl.
4. Toss fried cauliflower in the sauce until fully coated. Return to the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to caramelize the sauce slightly.

The magic here? The batter crisps up like fried chicken—without the grease—while the sweet-spicy sauce clings perfectly to every nook.

Tip: Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks for the full buffalo experience!

Instant Pot Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

These crispy, golden shrimp are a tropical twist on a classic appetizer—ready in minutes with your Instant Pot’s air fryer lid!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Cooking spray
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce (for dipping)

Instructions:

1. Prep the shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Set up three shallow bowls: one with 1/2 cup flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with a mix of 1 cup panko, 1 cup coconut, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp paprika, and 1/2 tsp salt.
2. Coat: Dredge each shrimp in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg, then press into the coconut-panko mixture to coat evenly.
3. Air fry: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Spritz shrimp lightly with more cooking spray. Air fry at 400°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until deeply golden and crispy.
4. Serve: Immediately serve with sweet chili sauce for dipping.

The coconut crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, giving these shrimp an irresistible crunch without deep-frying. Tip: For extra coconut flavor, toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet for 2 minutes before mixing with panko.

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

These sticky-sweet teriyaki chicken thighs come together in a flash, with the air fryer locking in juicy tenderness and caramelizing the glaze to perfection.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/3 cup soy sauce (low-sodium works too)
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 sliced green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together 1/3 cup soy sauce, 3 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp garlic, 1 tsp ginger, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Simmer over medium heat for 3 minutes.
2. Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water, then stir into the sauce. Cook 1–2 more minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
3. Toss chicken thighs in half the teriyaki sauce. Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
4. Arrange thighs in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Air fry for 12 minutes, flip, then cook 8–10 more minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F.
5. Brush with remaining sauce and air fry 1–2 minutes until glossy. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

The magic here? The air fryer gives you crispy-edged chicken with zero fuss—no soggy takeout containers in sight.

Tip: For extra caramelization, spritz the thighs with a little oil before the final saucing step.

Instant Pot Air Fryer Cajun Spiced Potatoes

These crispy, boldly spiced potatoes are a game-changer—ready in minutes with that perfect balance of smoky heat and tender insides.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs baby potatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss potatoes with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until evenly coated.
2. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F for 15 minutes, shaking halfway, until crispy and fork-tender.
3. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of flaky salt if desired.

The magic here? The Cajun seasoning caramelizes into a smoky crust while the potatoes stay fluffy—no soggy middles!

Tip: For extra crispiness, spritz the potatoes with oil halfway through cooking.

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Asparagus

This bright, zesty asparagus comes together in minutes with the magic of your air fryer—perfect for busy weeknights or a vibrant side dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp coarse black pepper
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
2. Toss asparagus with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp lemon zest, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp black pepper, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp garlic powder until evenly coated.
3. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway, until tender-crisp and lightly charred at the tips.

The lemon pepper crust gets irresistibly fragrant in the air fryer, while the asparagus stays snappy—no soggy spears here!

Tip: For extra tang, finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving.

Instant Pot Air Fryer Garlic Herb Pork Tenderloin

This Instant Pot Air Fryer Garlic Herb Pork Tenderloin is juicy, flavorful, and ready in a flash—perfect for busy weeknights when you want a restaurant-quality meal at home.

• 1 (1.5 lb) pork tenderloin, trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1. In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp olive oil, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp rosemary, 1 tbsp thyme, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika to form a paste.
2. Pat the pork tenderloin dry, then rub the herb paste evenly over the entire surface.
3. Place the pork in the air fryer basket (or on the Instant Pot air fryer lid rack) and cook at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
4. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.

The garlic-herb crust caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer, giving the tenderloin a crispy exterior while keeping the inside melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Tip: For extra flavor, let the pork marinate in the herb paste for 30 minutes before cooking—but it’s just as tasty straight from the rub!

Air Fryer Frozen French Fries

Craving crispy fries without the deep-fryer mess? Your air fryer transforms frozen fries into golden perfection—no thawing required!

Ingredients:

• 1 (16 oz) bag frozen French fries (any cut)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
2. Toss frozen fries with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (if using) in a large bowl until evenly coated.
3. Arrange fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket (cook in batches if needed). Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes, until deeply golden and crisp.

The magic? The air fryer’s rapid circulation gives these fries a crispier crust than your oven ever could—plus that smoky paprika adds a sneaky depth of flavor.

Tip: For extra-crispy results, avoid overcrowding the basket. A little space lets the hot air work its magic!

Instant Pot Air Fryer Crispy Tofu Bites

These golden, crunchy tofu bites are a game-changer—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and ready in under 20 minutes thanks to your Instant Pot Air Fryer lid!

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, toss tofu cubes with 1 tbsp cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, then sprinkle with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Gently toss to coat.
3. Arrange tofu in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until deeply golden and crisp.

The magic here? The cornstarch creates an ultra-crisp crust without deep-frying, while the smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth. Perfect for snacking or topping salads!

Tip: For extra flavor, spritz with tamari or toss in buffalo sauce right after cooking.

Air Fryer Maple Glazed Carrots

These sweet and sticky maple-glazed carrots are a breeze to make in the air fryer, with just enough caramelized edges to keep things interesting.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into ½-inch thick sticks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp butter, melted
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 380°F.
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with 2 tbsp olive oil, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and ¼ tsp garlic powder until evenly coated.
3. Arrange carrots in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp maple syrup and 1 tbsp melted butter. Drizzle over carrots and toss to coat.
5. Air fry for another 5–7 minutes until caramelized and tender-crisp. Garnish with fresh parsley if using.

The maple glaze clings perfectly to the carrots, creating a glossy finish with just the right balance of savory and sweet.

Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of smoked paprika with the seasonings in step 2.

Instant Pot Air Fryer Spicy Chicken Drumsticks

These drumsticks pack a punch with a crispy skin and juicy interior—perfect for game day or a weeknight dinner with a kick!

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken drumsticks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for glaze)

Instructions:

1. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss them with 2 tbsp olive oil until evenly coated.
2. In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning over the drumsticks, rubbing to adhere.
3. Place the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Air fry at 400°F for 22–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the skin is crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Optional: Brush with 1 tbsp honey during the last 2 minutes for a sticky-sweet finish.

The magic here? The air fryer locks in moisture while giving you that deep-fried crunch—without the oil splatter.

Tip: Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving; the spices will mellow slightly for a balanced heat.

Conclusion

With these 20 easy and delicious Instant Pot Air Fryer recipes, weeknight dinners just got a whole lot tastier! Whether you’re craving crispy favorites or cozy comfort food, there’s something here for everyone. Give them a try, then let us know which ones you loved in the comments. Don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest to spread the cooking inspiration!