Air fryers have become the ultimate kitchen appliance. Since adding one to my arsenal, I’ve found that there’s very little you can’t cook this magical device. Recently, I’ve tried to see if I could cook a 3-course meal in an air fryer, and I think I’ve gotten it down.
Here is my ultimate 3-course meal that you can whip up in an air fryer.
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Starter: crispy bruschetta bites
Air fryers often get filled with main course meals and quick snacks. But they’re perfect for frying up the perfect starter.
Ingredients:
- French baguette, sliced
- Cherry tomatoes, diced
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Garlic clove, minced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Toss the Mix: In a bowl, combine tomatoes, basil, garlic, a dash of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Prep the Bread: Lightly brush your baguette slices with olive oil.
Air Fry the Bread: Place the slices in the air fryer basket and cook at 180°C for 4 minutes until golden.
Assemble and Melt: Top each slice with the tomato mixture, add cheese if desired, and air fry for another 2 minutes until the cheese melts. Voila, a crispy, savoury appetiser!
Air frying tip: The air fryer circulates hot air around the bread, giving it a fantastic crisp texture without the need for excessive oil. It’s a healthier and quicker alternative to oven-baking.
Main Course: Stuffed Chicken Breast
Experience the magic of a perfectly cooked, moist chicken breast, all thanks to the air fryer’s consistent heat.
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- Spinach, chopped
- Cream cheese
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Prep the Chicken: Slice each breast to create a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Stuff: Mix spinach, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stuff this mixture into each chicken breast.
Season: Rub the chicken with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Air Fry Magic: Cook in the air fryer at 180°C for about 22-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
Air frying tip: The air fryer is fantastic for cooking stuffed meats. It maintains a consistent temperature, ensuring your chicken is cooked evenly without drying out.
Dessert: Decadent Chocolate Lava Cakes
Air fryers aren’t just for savoury dishes; they can create incredible desserts. They offer a quick and even baking alternative, perfect for achieving that gooey lava cake centre without overcooking the exterior.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- A pinch of salt
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar.
Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in eggs, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
Prep the Ramekins: Spray your ramekins with cooking spray, then pour the batter into them.
Air Fry to Perfection: Place ramekins in the air fryer and cook at 180°C for 8-10 minutes. The centre should be gooey!
There you have it! A full 3-course meal, all emerging from the wonders of your air fryer. This guide is more than just recipes; it’s an invitation to explore the limitless possibilities of air frying. From crunchy appetisers to succulent mains and indulgent desserts, your air fryer is the versatile hero of the modern kitchen.
Happy air frying!
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Featured Image: Instagram | @woodsandivory