20 Budget-Friendly Air Fryer Recipes for Dinner for Two (You’ll Love #14!)

Do you want to enjoy delicious dinners without breaking the bank?

These 20 budget-friendly air fryer recipes are perfect for cozy meals for two, making cooking easier and more enjoyable.

From crispy chicken to scrumptious vegetable medleys, these meals are not only wallet-friendly but also quick to prepare, allowing you to spend more time savoring your food and each other’s company.

1. Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Juicy chicken thighs are transformed into a crispy delight in the air fryer, seasoned with herbs and spices for an explosion of flavor.

This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, and the best part? It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare! Serve with a side of air-fried sweet potatoes for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

4. Serve hot with sweet potatoes or your favorite side dish.

2. Zesty Air Fryer Salmon

This air fryer salmon is a quick and healthy option that bursts with flavor, thanks to a zesty marinade of lemon and garlic.

Cooking salmon in the air fryer ensures it comes out flaky on the inside while being perfectly charred on the outside. Pair it with a light salad for a refreshing dinner.

Ingredients:

– 2 salmon fillets

– Juice of 1 lemon

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon garlic, minced

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

2. Marinate the salmon fillets for 15 minutes.

3. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).

4. Place the marinated salmon in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes.

5. Serve with a side of mixed greens dressed with olive oil and lemon.

3. Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a classic dish that gets a modern twist in the air fryer.

Filled with a savory mix of ground turkey, rice, and spices, these colorful peppers are both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for a dinner for two, this dish is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

Ingredients:

– 2 bell peppers (any color)

– 1 cup cooked rice

– 1/2 pound ground turkey

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– 1/2 cup shredded cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.

2. In a skillet, cook the ground turkey with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until browned.

3. Mix the cooked rice and half of the cheese into the turkey mixture.

4. Stuff the bell peppers with the mixture and top with remaining cheese.

5. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and cook the stuffed peppers for 15-18 minutes.

6. Let cool slightly before serving.

4. Air Fryer Vegetable Medley

This colorful vegetable medley is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a healthy dinner.

A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots tossed in olive oil and herbs, this dish is both vibrant and nutritious. Plus, it cooks up in just 15 minutes in the air fryer!

Ingredients:

– 1 zucchini, sliced

– 1 bell pepper, chopped

– 1 carrot, sliced

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Place the seasoned vegetables in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

4. Serve warm as a side or over rice for a filling dish.

5. Air Fryer Shrimp Tacos

Enjoy a zesty and fresh dinner with air fryer shrimp tacos that are perfect for a quick meal for two.

The shrimp are seasoned and cooked until perfectly crispy, then served in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings. This recipe is not only easy to make but also budget-friendly and utterly delicious.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning

– 4 small tortillas

– 1 cup shredded cabbage

– 1/2 cup salsa

– Lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss the shrimp with taco seasoning until evenly coated.

3. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket and cook for 6-8 minutes until pink and cooked through.

4. Warm the tortillas in the air fryer for 1 minute.

5. Assemble the tacos with shrimp, cabbage, salsa, and a squeeze of lime before serving.

6. Air Fryer Pork Chops with Apples

This sweet and savory dish combines tender air-fried pork chops with caramelized apples for a delightful twist.

The air fryer ensures the pork chops are juicy on the inside while being perfectly cooked on the outside, and the apples add a deliciously sweet touch. This dish is perfect for a romantic dinner for two.

Ingredients:

– 2 pork chops

– 1 apple, sliced

– 1 tablespoon brown sugar

– 1 teaspoon cinnamon

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

2. Season the pork chops with salt and pepper.

3. In a bowl, toss the apple slices with brown sugar and cinnamon.

4. Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Add the apple slices to the basket for the last 5 minutes of cooking.

6. Serve the pork chops topped with caramelized apples.

7. Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy air fryer sweet potato fries are the perfect side dish for almost any meal.

These fries are not only healthier than traditional fries but also incredibly easy to make. Enjoy them with a homemade dipping sauce for a touch of indulgence without blowing your budget.

Ingredients:

– 2 medium sweet potatoes, cut into fries

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, paprika, and salt.

3. Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

4. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy.

5. Serve hot with a dipping sauce of your choice.

8. Air Fryer Meatballs with Spaghetti

These savory air fryer meatballs are a classic comfort food elevated to new heights.

Juicy and flavorful, they pair perfectly with spaghetti for a satisfying dinner. With minimal prep and a quick cooking time, this dish is perfect for a midweek meal that feels special.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

– 1 egg

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– 1/2 cup marinara sauce

– 8 ounces spaghetti

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into meatballs.

2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

3. Place meatballs in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions.

5. Serve meatballs over spaghetti, topped with marinara sauce.

9. Air Fryer Cauliflower Tacos

These air fryer cauliflower tacos are a delicious vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Crispy cauliflower bites are seasoned and served in warm tortillas, topped with fresh avocado and salsa for a delightful meal. Perfect for plant-based eaters or anyone looking for something different!

Ingredients:

– 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets

– 1 tablespoon taco seasoning

– 4 small tortillas

– 1 avocado, sliced

– 1/2 cup salsa

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss cauliflower florets with taco seasoning until evenly coated.

3. Place cauliflower in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

4. Warm the tortillas in the air fryer for 1 minute.

5. Assemble the tacos with crispy cauliflower, avocado, and salsa before serving.

10. Air Fryer Fajitas

Sizzling air fryer fajitas are a fun and interactive meal that’s perfect for two.

With tender strips of chicken or beef combined with colorful bell peppers and onions, these fajitas are bursting with flavor. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings for a delightful dinner experience.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound chicken breast or beef strips

– 1 bell pepper, sliced

– 1 onion, sliced

– 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning

– 4 small tortillas

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

2. Toss the meat, bell pepper, onion, and fajita seasoning together in a bowl.

3. Place the mixture in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

4. Warm the tortillas in the air fryer for 1 minute.

5. Serve the fajitas with your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.

11. Air Fryer Eggplant Parmesan

This healthier take on classic eggplant parmesan is made simple in the air fryer, making it a perfect dinner for two.

Layers of breaded eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted cheese create a comforting dish that is both satisfying and budget-friendly. Serve it over pasta or on its own for a delicious meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 medium eggplant, sliced

– 1 cup breadcrumbs

– 1 cup marinara sauce

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Season eggplant slices with salt and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry.

3. Dip the eggplant in breadcrumbs, coating evenly.

4. Place in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then cook for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted.

6. Serve hot over pasta if desired.

12. Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp

Air fryer coconut shrimp is a delightful and crunchy treat that makes for a perfect dinner appetizer or main dish.

The sweet coconut coating pairs beautifully with succulent shrimp, creating a dish that’s as enjoyable to eat as it is to look at. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 1 cup shredded coconut

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

– 1 egg, beaten

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. In one bowl, place beaten egg, in another, combine coconut and breadcrumbs.

3. Dip each shrimp in the egg, then coat with the coconut mixture.

4. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.

5. Serve with a sweet chili sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

13. Air Fryer Chicken Quesadillas

These air fryer chicken quesadillas are a quick and easy dinner option that’s packed with flavor.

Stuffed with tender chicken, melted cheese, and your favorite veggies, these quesadillas are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Perfect for a casual dinner for two!

Ingredients:

– 2 tortillas

– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup shredded cheese

– 1/2 bell pepper, sliced

– Salsa for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

2. On one tortilla, layer shredded chicken, cheese, and sliced bell pepper.

3. Top with the second tortilla and place in the air fryer basket.

4. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

5. Slice and serve with salsa.

14. Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

This flavorful air fryer teriyaki chicken is a must-try!

Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, then air-fried for a deliciously crispy exterior. Serve this savory dish with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal for two.

Ingredients:

– 2 chicken thighs

– 1/4 cup soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons honey

– 1 tablespoon cornstarch

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and garlic powder to create the marinade.

2. Add chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

4. Place marinated chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve with steamed rice and vegetables.

15. Air Fryer Greek Chicken Bowls

These air fryer Greek chicken bowls are a fresh and healthy option for dinner.

With marinated chicken, quinoa, and a medley of fresh vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and filling. Top with a creamy tzatziki sauce for an added burst of flavor.

Ingredients:

– 2 chicken breasts

– 1 teaspoon oregano

– 1 cup cooked quinoa

– 1 cucumber, diced

– 1 tomato, diced

– Tzatziki sauce for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Season chicken breasts with oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. Cook in the air fryer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

4. In bowls, layer cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, diced tomato, and sliced chicken.

5. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce before serving.

16. Air Fryer Chili Lime Shrimp

These air fryer chili lime shrimp are bursting with flavor and can be whipped up in no time!

The zesty marinade combines lime juice and spices, giving the shrimp a refreshing kick. Perfect served over rice or in tacos for a delightful dinner for two.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

– Juice of 1 lime

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix lime juice, chili powder, olive oil, and salt.

2. Toss shrimp in the marinade and let sit for 15 minutes.

3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

4. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket and cook for 6-8 minutes until pink and cooked through.

5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh lime wedges.

17. Air Fryer Veggie Burgers

Healthy and delicious, these air fryer veggie burgers are a perfect choice for a light dinner.

Packed with flavor and made from wholesome ingredients, they can be served on whole-grain buns with your favorite toppings. An easy, budget-friendly meal that won’t leave you feeling heavy.

Ingredients:

– 1 can black beans, drained

– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

– 1/4 cup diced onion

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mash black beans and mix in breadcrumbs, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Form the mixture into patties.

3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

4. Place the patties in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Serve on buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.

18. Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

These air fryer BBQ chicken drumsticks are a finger-licking good dinner option that’s sure to please.

Marinated in a tangy barbecue sauce, the chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making it a perfect meal for a casual evening at home.

Ingredients:

– 4 chicken drumsticks

– 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Season drumsticks with salt and pepper.

3. Brush with BBQ sauce and place in the air fryer basket.

4. Cook for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with more sauce halfway through.

5. Serve hot, with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

19. Air Fryer Potatoes au Gratin

This creamy and cheesy air fryer potatoes au gratin is a delightful side dish that complements any meal.

Layers of thinly sliced potatoes baked to perfection in the air fryer create a comforting dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for a romantic dinner setting.

Ingredients:

– 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup shredded cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C).

2. Layer potato slices in a baking dish, seasoning with salt and pepper between layers.

3. Pour heavy cream over the top and sprinkle with cheese.

4. Cook in the air fryer for 25-30 minutes until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly.

5. Let cool slightly before serving.

20. Air Fryer Chocolate Lava Cake

End your dinner on a sweet note with an indulgent air fryer chocolate lava cake.

With a gooey chocolate center, this dessert is simple to make and perfect for sharing. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish to your meal.

Ingredients:

– 1/2 cup dark chocolate, chopped

– 1/4 cup butter

– 1/2 cup powdered sugar

– 1 egg

– 1 egg yolk

– 1/4 cup flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (188°C).

2. Melt chocolate and butter together in a bowl. Stir in powdered sugar, egg, egg yolk, and flour until combined.

3. Pour the batter into greased ramekins.

4. Cook for 10-12 minutes in the air fryer until the edges are firm but the center is soft.

5. Let cool for a minute, then invert onto a plate and serve with ice cream.

Conclusion

These 20 budget-friendly air fryer recipes for dinner for two offer a range of delicious options that are easy to prepare and easy on the wallet.

Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or a sweet treat to end your meal, these recipes provide the perfect solution for a cozy evening at home.

Try them out and enjoy the delightful flavors they bring to your table! Discover some tasty treats