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7 Essential Instant Pot Air Fryer Recipes for Crispy Meals
Struggling to get that perfect crispy texture without deep-frying? Many home cooks face the dilemma of choosing between tender, juicy results and a satisfying crunch. Your Instant Pot air fryer combo offers a game-changing solution to this common kitchen challenge.
Instant Pot air fryer recipes combine the speed and tenderness of pressure cooking with the crispy, golden-brown finish of air frying, offering a versatile solution for quick, healthy, and delicious meals without the need for multiple appliances. This dual functionality ensures perfectly cooked dishes with minimal effort. Leveraging tested frameworks and data-driven insights from culinary experts, this guide reveals how to truly master your appliance. You’ll discover seven essential recipes designed to unlock crispy perfection and simplify your mealtime routine.
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Unlock Crispy Perfection: Mastering Instant Pot Air Fryer Recipes for Every Meal
7 Essential Instant Pot Air Fryer Recipes for Crispy Meals
1. Master Instant Pot Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Wings
Pin this recipe for the ultimate crispy wings!
Achieving perfectly tender and crispy chicken wings using your Instant Pot air fryer is simple when you leverage its dual functions. The Instant Pot pressure cooks the chicken wings to ensure they’re juicy and fall-off-the-bone tender, while the air fryer function then crisps the skin to a beautiful golden brown. This method delivers juicy instant pot air fryer chicken with an irresistible crispy skin.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs fresh chicken wings (flats and drumettes, separated)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil for high heat)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup water (for pressure cooking)
Instructions:
- Prepare Wings: Pat chicken wings thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Season: In a large bowl, toss wings with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt until evenly coated.
- Pressure Cook (Optional but Recommended): Pour 1/4 cup water into the Instant Pot inner pot. Place a trivet inside and arrange the seasoned wings on top in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary). Secure the lid and pressure cook on HIGH for 5 minutes. Quick release pressure.
- Air Fry: Carefully remove wings from the Instant Pot. Drain any liquid from the inner pot. Place wings in the air fryer basket (single layer) or on the air fryer rack (if using Duo Crisp). Air Fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Toss with your favorite sauce or serve immediately.
> Pro-Tip: For extra crispy skin, sprinkle a teaspoon of baking powder (not baking soda!) over the wings after patting them dry and before seasoning. This helps absorb surface moisture and promotes browning.
2. Craft Perfect Instant Pot Air Fryer French Fries
Save this for the crispiest homemade fries!
Making perfectly crispy homemade French fries in your Instant Pot air fryer is surprisingly simple and requires far less oil than traditional methods. This process involves steaming the potatoes first in the Instant Pot to achieve tenderness, then air frying them to get that irresistible crispy instant pot air fryer fries texture. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic side dish with a healthier twist, truly making homemade fried food achievable.
Ingredients:
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch thick fries
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup water (for steaming)
Instructions:
- Soak Potatoes: Place cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat very dry.
- Steam: Pour 1/4 cup water into the Instant Pot inner pot. Place a trivet inside and arrange potatoes on top (you can use a steamer basket if you have one). Secure the lid and steam on LOW pressure for 3 minutes. Quick release pressure.
- Season: Carefully remove steamed potatoes. In a bowl, toss par-cooked fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Air Fry: Place fries in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer rack in a single layer. Air Fry at 380°F (195°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping every 5-7 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
> Pro-Tip: Soaking the potatoes beforehand is key for crispiness. For seasoned fries, add a sprinkle of garlic powder, paprika, or even a dash of cayenne pepper before air frying.
3. Prepare Tender & Crispy Instant Pot Air Fryer Pork Chops
Don’t miss out on these juicy, crispy pork chops!
Cooking pork chops that are tender on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside is a challenge many cooks face, often resulting in dry meat. The Instant Pot air fryer combo provides an ideal solution, preventing dry chicken and pork by quickly cooking the chops to retain moisture before air frying them to create a delectable, crispy exterior. This method delivers juicy pork chops instant pot air fryer style.
Ingredients:
- 2 bone-in pork chops (1-inch thick)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (for pressure cooking)
Instructions:
- Season Chops: Pat pork chops dry. Rub with olive oil, then season generously with garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pressure Cook: Pour 1/2 cup chicken broth into the Instant Pot. Place a trivet inside and arrange pork chops on top. Secure the lid and pressure cook on HIGH for 3-5 minutes (3 min for thinner, 5 min for thicker chops). Quick release pressure.
- Air Fry: Carefully remove chops. Drain liquid from the inner pot. Place pork chops in the air fryer basket or on the rack. Air Fry at 390°F (200°C) for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Rest & Serve: Let chops rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
> Pro-Tip: Using a meat thermometer is crucial to avoid overcooking pork chops, ensuring they remain juicy. Pull them out at 145°F and let them rest; they will continue to cook slightly.
4. Create Flaky & Crispy Instant Pot Air Fryer Salmon Fillets
Your new go-to for healthy, crispy salmon!
For healthy instant pot air fryer recipes, salmon fillets cooked with the dual functionality of your Instant Pot are a fantastic choice. You can achieve salmon that is incredibly moist and flaky on the inside, complemented by a perfectly crispy, flavorful skin. This method ensures delicious instant meals that are both nutritious and satisfying, perfect for a fast dinner solution.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6 oz) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Lemon wedges for serving
- 1 cup water (for pressure cooking)
Instructions:
- Prepare Salmon: Pat salmon fillets dry. Rub with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Pressure Cook (Optional): Pour 1 cup water into the Instant Pot. Place a trivet inside. Place salmon on parchment paper on the trivet. Secure lid and pressure cook on LOW for 2-3 minutes. Quick release pressure. (Skip this step if you prefer direct air frying, but pressure cooking first ensures moistness.)
- Air Fry: Carefully transfer salmon to the air fryer basket or rack. Air Fry at 380°F (195°C) for 7-10 minutes, depending on thickness and desired crispiness, until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and skin is crispy.
- Serve: Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.
> Pro-Tip: If using skin-on salmon, ensure the skin is very dry before seasoning and place it skin-side up in the air fryer for maximum crispiness.
5. Roast Crispy Instant Pot Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
Add these delicious crispy sprouts to your dinner menu!
Cooking tender yet crispy Brussels sprouts quickly and easily is a breeze with the Instant Pot air fryer combo. This method helps avoid soggy vegetables, first tenderizing them with a brief steam in the Instant Pot, then roasting them to a perfect crispy char with the air fryer lid. It’s one of the best instant pot air fryer recipes for vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1/2 cup water (for steaming)
Instructions:
- Prepare Sprouts: Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
- Steam: Pour 1/2 cup water into the Instant Pot. Place a trivet inside and arrange Brussels sprouts on top. Secure the lid and pressure cook on HIGH for 0 minutes (meaning, bring to pressure and immediately release for just a steam bath). Quick release pressure.
- Season: Carefully remove sprouts. In a bowl, toss par-cooked sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Air Fry: Place seasoned Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket or on the rack in a single layer. Air Fry at 380°F (195°C) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket or tossing halfway, until crispy and lightly charred.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a side dish.
> Pro-Tip: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket! Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even air circulation and crispiness. A single layer is key.
6. Bake Instant Pot Air Fryer Meatloaf with Crispy Glaze
This crispy-topped meatloaf is a game-changer!
For a family friendly instant pot air fryer meal, meatloaf with a crispy, caramelized glaze is an ideal choice. The Instant Pot ensures a perfectly moist and flavorful interior, while the air fryer function creates a desirable golden-brown and slightly crispy top layer. This results in tender instant pot air fryer meatloaf that everyone will love, making for easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- For Glaze: 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water (for pressure cooking)
Instructions:
- Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix). Form into a loaf shape.
- Pressure Cook: Pour 1 cup water into the Instant Pot. Place a trivet inside. Carefully place the meatloaf on a piece of parchment paper on the trivet. Secure the lid and pressure cook on HIGH for 20-25 minutes (depending on thickness). Natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
- Prepare Glaze: While meatloaf is pressure cooking, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
- Air Fry & Glaze: Carefully remove meatloaf from the Instant Pot. Transfer to the air fryer basket or rack. Brush generously with the prepared glaze. Air Fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, until the glaze is caramelized and crispy.
- Rest & Serve: Let meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
> Pro-Tip: Using a foil sling or parchment paper helps to easily transfer the meatloaf in and out of the Instant Pot and air fryer basket without it falling apart.
7. Make Quick & Crispy Instant Pot Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Perfectly crispy chicken tenders await! Pin now!
For quick instant pot air fryer recipes, homemade chicken tenders are a fantastic, family-friendly option. The air fryer delivers an incredibly crispy breading without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier alternative. These are easy instant pot air fryer meals that will become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions:
- Prepare Dredging Stations: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper mixed; one with the beaten egg; and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread Chicken: Pat chicken tenders dry. Dredge each tender first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip in the egg, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange & Oil: Lightly spray the air fryer basket or rack with olive oil or cooking spray. Arrange breaded chicken tenders in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with oil.
- Air Fry: Air Fry at 380°F (195°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
> Pro-Tip: For extra crunch and to ensure the breading adheres well, you can chill the breaded chicken tenders in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before air frying.
FAQs About instant pot recipes air fryer
What are the best Instant Pot air fryer recipes?
The best Instant Pot air fryer recipes leverage the appliance’s dual functionality, offering tender interiors from pressure cooking and crispy exteriors from air frying. Popular choices include chicken wings, french fries, pork chops, salmon, and roasted vegetables, all benefiting from the efficient, healthier cooking method. These versatile recipes deliver delicious results for various meal types.
How to use Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid?
To use the Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid, simply attach it to your compatible Instant Pot (6-quart or 8-quart) after pressure cooking or for direct air frying. Ensure the pressure cooker lid is removed, place your food in the air fryer basket or on the trivet, secure the Air Fryer Lid, and select the ‘Air Fry’ function. Follow specific recipe instructions for temperature and time, and always keep the lid’s vents clear.
Can you air fry in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can absolutely air fry in an Instant Pot, provided you have a compatible model like the Instant Pot Duo Crisp or a separate Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid. These additions allow the Instant Pot to transform from a pressure cooker into a versatile air fryer, enabling you to achieve crispy, golden-brown results with less oil, right in your existing appliance.
What Instant Pot models have air fryer function?
Several Instant Pot models come with an integrated air fryer function, most notably the Instant Pot Duo Crisp and Instant Pot Pro Crisp. Additionally, a standalone Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid can be purchased separately and is compatible with most 6-quart and 8-quart Instant Pot pressure cooker bases, effectively turning them into air fryers.
Is Instant Pot or air fryer better for chicken?
Combining the Instant Pot and air fryer functions offers the best of both worlds for chicken: the Instant Pot ensures the chicken is incredibly tender and juicy, while the air fryer provides a crispy, golden skin. For dishes like chicken wings or whole chicken, this dual approach often yields superior results compared to using either appliance in isolation.
How long to air fry chicken wings in Instant Pot?
After pressure cooking for 5 minutes with a quick release, Instant Pot air-fried chicken wings typically require 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to become crispy and golden brown. This time can vary slightly depending on the size of the wings and whether they are in a single layer, with a flip halfway through cooking recommended for even crispiness.
What can I cook in Instant Pot Duo Crisp?
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp can cook a vast array of dishes, from stews and roasts (pressure cook) to crispy fries and roasted vegetables (air fry). Its 11-in-1 functionality allows you to pressure cook, sauté, steam, slow cook, sous vide, air fry, roast, bake, broil, dehydrate, and keep warm, making it incredibly versatile for almost any meal.
Are Instant Pot air fryer recipes healthy?
Instant Pot air fryer recipes can be a very healthy alternative to traditional frying methods, as they require significantly less oil to achieve crispy results. The ability to both pressure cook and air fry also means cooking with fresh ingredients and controlling seasonings, contributing to more nutritious, homemade meals compared to many processed or fast-food options.
What are easy Instant Pot air fryer meals for beginners?
Easy Instant Pot air fryer meals for beginners often include staples like chicken tenders, French fries, roasted potatoes, or simple salmon fillets. These recipes are straightforward, require minimal ingredients, and demonstrate the core capabilities of the appliance – making them perfect for building confidence in using the Instant Pot’s air frying function.
How does Instant Pot air fryer combo work?
The Instant Pot air fryer combo works by first utilizing the pressure cooking function to quickly cook food and tenderize it, often with added moisture. Once pressure cooking is complete, the pressure lid is swapped for an air fryer lid (or the appliance switches to air fryer mode) to circulate hot air, creating a crispy, golden-brown exterior without excessive oil.
Key Takeaways
- Dual Functionality is Key: The Instant Pot’s ability to both pressure cook for tenderness and air fry for crispiness is its greatest asset, offering crispy food without deep frying and tender meat instant pot air fryer results. This combination transforms simple ingredients into delicious instant meals.
- Prep for Perfection: Patting food dry, using minimal oil, and avoiding overcrowding the basket are crucial instant pot air fryer techniques for achieving that desired golden-brown crisp. These proven instant pot air fryer methods ensure optimal results.
- Versatile Appliance: From instant pot air fryer chicken wings crispy skin to roasted brussels sprouts air fryer, this appliance can transform a wide array of proteins and vegetables into delicious meals. It truly is a versatile instant pot air fryer for various culinary creations.
- Healthier & Quicker Meals: By significantly reducing cooking time and requiring less oil air frying, the Instant Pot air fryer combo offers convenient cooking for families who seek both efficiency and nutritious options. It’s a fantastic solution for fast dinner solutions.
- Trust the Process (and Temperature): For best results and food safety, follow recommended internal temperatures for meats and use a meat thermometer. These are tested instant pot air fryer recipes for reliable outcomes, backed by expert instant pot air fryer tips.
- Don’t Limit Your Imagination: Beyond the essentials, explore other instant pot air fryer ideas like desserts, breakfast items, or even dehydrating, showcasing the full potential of your versatile instant pot air fryer. Mastering instant pot air fryer cooking opens up a world of culinary possibilities.
Last update on 2025-12-17 at 06:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
