As a busy Dietitian, dog mom and business owner, I LOVE my air fryer for fast and filling high protein meals. It makes quick work of getting protein on my plate *without* turning on the oven (saving me precious energy & time). I’ve got 8 healthy and high-protein air fryer recipes for you to add to your weekly meal plan below.
To get the best results:
- Aim for a single layer for foods you want to have crunchy exteriors or get an insert that allows two layers. Air flow is key to crisp foods instead of steaming them.
- Give a quick spritz with an olive or avocado oil cooking spray if you haven’t added any other fats in your marinade – this helps seal juiciness in and get that crispy exterior you’re looking for.
- Pat any proteins dry before adding spices or sauces and putting in your air fryer.
- Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Skins: Perfect for a lower carb and higher protein plate, and super fun for a game day lunch!
- Baked Chicken Nuggets with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: Family friendly, and perfect leftovers to throw on a salad or in a wrap for that “crunchy chicken” vibe without all the sneaky calories of the deep fried kind.
- Blackened Fish with Key Lime Tartar Sauce: Fish is a cornerstone of a healthy fat loss friendly approach for those who enjoy it! Lean and protein packed, finding flavourful and quick recipes makes it worthy of a place on the weekly plan.
- Air Fryer Cajun Shrimp and Veggie Dinner: You know I love me an all in one meal, and Skinnytaste recipes rarely disappoint. Full of flavour and light on effort! Shrimp is another super lean protein. Keep a bag in your freezer for last minute meals.
- Air Fryer Salmon w/Honey Sriracha Glaze: We’re blessed on the West Coast with amazing fresh salmon. I love the single serving filets from Costco so I can defrost just enough for the week. Anti-inflammatory Omega 3’s can also help with fat loss.
- Crispy Air Fryer Tofu: Playing with plant based? Tofu is one of the most protein dense options and lower carb than many other plant based proteins. Perfect if you’re trying to find the balance or your gut can’t handle cups of beans a day.
- Cracklin Chicken: Crispy on the outside and juicy inside! These skin-on chicken thighs are delicious and nutritious – thighs have more iron which is key for energy production and fat loss. While the skin does add calories, the fat also helps with fullness and satiety.
- Wonton Meatballs: A mix of pork and shrimp keeps this lean and so flavourful! These are also freezer friendly which is so helpful during the busy fall months.
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