11 Easy Chinese Air Fryer Recipes: Gourmet Flavor No Hassle!
Are you looking for the best Chinese air fryer recipes? Craving those cosy Chinese takeaway flavours but not the cost, time, or clean-up? You’re not alone, lovely. As a busy mum of three and a full-time blogger building a life of ease and flavour, I’ve mastered the art of making weeknight meals feel like a little moment — and my air fryer is my not-so-secret weapon.
This curated list of easy Chinese air fryer recipes brings all the comforting, bold, restaurant-style flavour without the fuss. From crispy spring rolls to honey-glazed pork buns, each dish is quick to prep, family-approved, and absolutely perfect for busy evenings when you still want to serve something that feels a little gourmet.
Whether you’re hosting a low-key games night, plating up for the kids after school, or just romanticising your Tuesday dinner — these meals are proof that you don’t need a wok (or a takeaway app) to enjoy your favourites.
If you want more ideas, check out my Simple Air Fryer Chicken Recipes or even my Air Fryer Chocolate Lava Mug Cake: A 10-Minute Indulgence if you want a dessert.
Let’s dive into my Chinese air fryer recipes list.
Juicy Air Fryer BBQ Pork Buns
These juicy air fryer BBQ pork buns are a delight for any meal. Each fluffy bun is filled with succulent, shredded pork that has been beautifully seasoned. Using the air fryer, you can achieve that lovely golden brown color and perfect crispy texture without needing excessive oil.
This easy recipe is not just about taste; it’s quick to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Pair them with a savory sauce for an added kick!
Charlotte Tip: Use store-bought bao dough to save time. Line your air fryer with parchment to avoid sticking (and scrubbing!).
Crunchy Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Tofu
This Crunchy Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Tofu is a delightful dish that will have your whole family asking for seconds. The vibrant colors from the bell peppers and pineapple make this meal not only tasty but also visually appealing. By using an air fryer, you achieve that crispy texture with less oil, making it a healthier option compared to traditional frying methods.
The tofu is marinated in a savory sauce that balances sweetness and tartness beautifully, giving it that classic sweet and sour flavor we all love. It’s a perfect option for those looking for new recipes that are easy to prepare yet full of flavor. Serve it over brown rice for a complete meal that feels like homemade takeout, minus the fuss!
Charlotte Tip: Press your tofu first! It helps the sauce cling better and gives you that next-level crispiness.
Air Fryer Orange Chicken Delight
This Air Fryer Orange Chicken is a delightful twist on a classic dish. With golden-brown chicken pieces coated in a tangy sauce, it captures the essence of homemade takeout. The vibrant orange slices not only add color but also a fresh taste that brightens each bite.
To make this dish, you’ll need chicken breasts, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and savory sauces like hoisin and dark soy sauce. Mixing these ingredients together creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Don’t forget a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for that extra crunch!
Cooking this in your air fryer is simple. Just prepare your chicken pieces, toss them in the sauce, and let the hot air work its magic. The result? A crispy texture on the outside, and juicy, tender chicken inside. Plus, using less oil makes it a lighter option for those on a calorie diet.
Serve this dish alongside brown rice or sautéed green beans for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy. With air frying, you can create delicious dishes without the fuss of deep frying, making it an easy recipe to add to your collection of favorite Chinese dishes. And who knows, it might just become your new go-to for quick dinners!
Charlotte Tip: Add fresh orange zest to the sauce for a citrusy kick. It makes everything feel way fancier than it is. It’s one of my favourites from my Chinese air fryer recipes list.
Quick Air Fryer Vegetable Dumplings
Looking at those perfectly arranged vegetable dumplings is enough to make anyone hungry! These dumplings are a delicious way to enjoy Chinese food right at home. Using an air fryer helps achieve that crispy texture with less oil, making them a healthier choice for the whole family.
To make this easy recipe, gather your favorite vegetables like green beans, carrots, and cabbage. Mix them in a small bowl with a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil for that authentic flavor. Wrapping them in dumpling skins is a fun activity, especially if you involve the kids!
Once they’re ready, place them in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air frying at medium heat allows them to cook evenly and gives them that golden brown finish. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a plate full of dumplings that look as delicious as they taste.
Don’t forget to whip up a quick dipping sauce! A tangy sauce made with hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of garlic will complement the dumplings perfectly. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or some steamed rice for a complete meal.
These vegetable dumplings are not only a delightful treat but also a great way to explore new recipes in your own air fryer. They remind you of your favorite Chinese restaurant but are super easy to make. Enjoy them with family and friends, and share Dad’s award-winning secrets to impress everyone!
Charlotte Tip: Brush the tops with sesame oil before air frying—they’ll crisp up golden without drying out.
Crispy Air Fryer Spring Rolls
These crispy air fryer spring rolls are the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re enjoying takeout from your favorite Chinese restaurant, all from the comfort of your home. The golden brown exterior is perfectly crisp, thanks to the hot air circulating in the air fryer. It’s a wonderful way to satisfy those cravings without deep frying.
Using pantry ingredients like finely chopped green beans, carrots, and a mix of spices, these spring rolls are not only easy to prepare, but they also bring a fresh taste to your table. For extra flavor, you could consider a dash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to kick it up a notch. Pair them with a savory sesame sauce or a tangy dipping sauce for a complete experience.
As for cooking time, air frying these rolls is a breeze. Just a few minutes in the air fryer basket will yield that delightful crispy texture. Remember to spray a little cooking spray for the best results, ensuring every roll is evenly cooked. It’s fun to experiment with different fillings, so feel free to use cooked chicken or veggies that your whole family enjoys!
Charlotte Tip: Keep the rolls from bursting by not overfilling them. Less is more—and it gives the crisp edges space to shine. It’s one of my favourites from my Chinese air fryer recipes list.
Savory Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon
Nothing beats the mouthwatering appeal of teriyaki salmon, especially when it comes straight from the air fryer. The bright, shiny glaze of the savory sesame sauce on the salmon fillet is simply inviting. You can see how perfectly cooked it is, with that beautiful crispy skin that everyone loves. Pair it with a side of fresh vegetables like broccoli and carrots for a balanced meal that feels like homemade takeout.
This easy recipe uses pantry ingredients like soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar to create a delicious teriyaki sauce. Just a few minutes in the air fryer at high heat, and you’ll have a dish that rivals any Chinese restaurant. Serve it over brown rice or even alongside some air-fried green beans for the whole family to enjoy.
For the best results, make sure your salmon is in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This ensures that the hot air circulates evenly, giving you that perfect crispy texture. Plus, since air frying uses less oil than traditional deep frying, you’ll feel good about this healthy twist on a classic dish.
Charlotte Tip: Marinate the salmon in a Ziploc bag in the morning—makes dinner feel effortless later!
Flavorful Air Fryer Kung Pao Cauliflower
If you’re looking for a tasty dish that brings the flavors of Chinese food right to your kitchen, look no further than air fryer Kung Pao cauliflower. This dish is a great way to enjoy a healthy, vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The vibrant color of the cauliflower pairs beautifully with the crunchy peanuts and fresh spring onion, creating a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
This easy recipe takes advantage of air frying, which delivers a crispy texture without the need for deep frying. Using less oil means you can enjoy a satisfying meal while sticking to your calorie diet. The key ingredient in this dish is the savory sauce that binds everything together. It’s a perfect balance of flavors, with a hint of sweetness from brown sugar and a kick from red pepper flakes. You’ll want to coat the cauliflower well to make sure every bite is bursting with taste!
To make this dish, start by tossing cauliflower pieces in a mixing bowl with sesame oil and the savory sauce. Then, place them in a single layer in your air fryer basket for the best results. Cooking time is quick, so you’ll have dinner ready in no time. Once they’re golden brown, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped peanuts for that delicious crunch.
Serve your Kung Pao cauliflower over brown rice for a complete meal. This air-fried version is a delicious take on a classic dish and will quickly become a favorite for the whole family. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to experiment with your own air fryer and explore new recipes!
Charlotte Tip: Toss the cauliflower in cornstarch before air frying for the crispiest bite. You won’t even miss the meat.
Tender Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken
This image showcases a delicious plate of air fryer General Tso’s chicken, perfectly arranged over a bed of fluffy brown rice. The chicken pieces are glistening with a savory sesame sauce, rich in flavor and color. Each piece is coated in a vibrant, tangy sauce that adds a touch of sweetness, creating a lovely balance.
The golden brown color of the chicken suggests that it has been air-fried to achieve that crispy texture without the need for deep frying. Air frying is a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite dishes with less oil, making it a healthier option while still satisfying your cravings.
To make this easy recipe, you’ll need chicken breasts, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and some pantry ingredients like brown sugar and five-spice powder. Start by marinating the chicken in the sauce for a bit to enhance the flavor. Then, toss it in the air fryer basket to cook at high heat, ensuring each piece reaches the right internal temperature.
Charlotte Tip: Batch-cook and freeze portions—future-you will thank you during a midweek “what’s for dinner?” panic.
Zesty Air Fryer Garlic Green Beans
These zesty air fryer garlic green beans are a delightful side dish that brings the flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant right to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and quick prep time, they fit perfectly into any homemade takeout night. Picture a vibrant plate of green beans, perfectly cooked and topped with a sprinkling of garlic.
The green beans in the image look fresh and crisp, enhanced by the garlicky goodness you can easily whip up. A wedge of lemon on the side adds a bright touch, balancing the savory flavors of the dish. Using the air fryer means less oil while still achieving that crispy texture we all love.
To make these green beans, start by tossing fresh green beans in a little vegetable oil and minced garlic in a mixing bowl. You can also add some red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Air fry them at medium heat until they reach a beautiful golden brown. The cooking time is quick, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
This easy recipe is just one of the many new recipes to try with your own air fryer. You’ll want to store any leftovers in an airtight container to enjoy later. They’re perfect alongside air-fried chicken or even a sesame chicken recipe. With this dish, you’ll be bringing restaurant-quality flavors to your table with minimal fuss.
Charlotte Tip: Serve these with lemon wedges and sesame seeds for a side dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Air Fryer Lemon Sesame Chicken Skewers
These Air Fryer Lemon Sesame Chicken Skewers are a fun twist on a classic dish. Picture juicy chicken pieces marinated in a savory sesame sauce, skewered and air-fried to golden brown perfection. The hot air in the air fryer ensures a crispy texture without the need for deep frying. This makes it a healthier option, using less oil while still delivering delicious flavors.
To prepare, start with key ingredients like chicken breasts, soy sauce, lemon juice, and sesame oil. Combine these in a mixing bowl, adding brown sugar and fresh ginger for that perfect balance of sweet and tangy. After marinating the chicken, thread the pieces onto skewers and air fry them at high heat until they reach the ideal internal temperature. You’ll want to ensure they’re cooked through but still juicy.
Serve these skewers over a bed of brown rice or with a side of sautéed green beans for a complete meal. A drizzle of hoisin sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an extra kick. Remember, if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They’re perfect for a quick lunch the next day!
Whether you’re cooking for the whole family or just yourself, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy homemade takeout that everyone will love. With dad’s award-winning secrets, these lemon sesame chicken skewers are bound to impress!
Charlotte Tip: Soak your wooden skewers in water for 30 mins to prevent them from burning in the air fryer.
Delectable Air Fryer Beef and Broccoli
In this easy recipe, we’re talking about a classic dish that combines tender beef and fresh broccoli, all infused with a savory sauce. The image shows a vibrant plate filled with fluffy rice, colorful broccoli, and juicy beef, making it a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.
The air fryer is perfect for this dish. By using hot air, you can achieve that crispy texture without deep frying. This means less oil and fewer calories! For this recipe, we recommend using sesame oil as a key ingredient to enhance the flavors.
To make this delectable dish, you’ll need some simple pantry ingredients like dark soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar. First, marinate the beef with these ingredients for a short time. Then, air fry the beef until it reaches the right internal temperature and has a beautiful golden brown color.
While the beef cooks, quickly steam some broccoli. Once everything is ready, toss the beef and broccoli together in a mixing bowl with a tangy sauce made from hoisin sauce and fresh ginger for an extra kick.
Serve it over rice for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This recipe is all about keeping it simple while enjoying a taste of homemade takeout that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant.
Charlotte Tip: Slice beef thinly across the grain for tenderness, and flash-steam the broccoli separately to keep it bright green and crisp. It’s one of my favourites from my Chinese air fryer recipes list.
Before You Go!
See? Gourmet doesn’t have to mean complicated, especially with my Chinese air fryer recipes. With a few pantry staples and your trusty air fryer, you can whip up a Chinese-inspired feast that’s fun, flavourful, and fuss-free. These recipes are here to help you reclaim dinner time — making it more joyful, more intentional, and honestly? More delicious.
As always, these are just ideas to get your creative juices flowing. You can mix, match, adapt, and simplify depending on your mood and what’s in the fridge. Cooking should feel like self-care, not stress.
Don’t forget to pin your favourites Chinese air fryer recipes, share them with your foodie besties, and tag me if you recreate them! I love seeing these dreamy meals come to life in your kitchens. Until next time, keep making magic — one crispy dumpling at a time.
With love, gratitude & soft girl CEO vibes.
