If you’re like me, you’re always on the hunt for meals that are both delicious and packed with protein. 

Whether you’re trying to build muscle, stay full longer, or just want some tasty scran that’s quick and easy to whip up, then these air fryer-friendly recipes are for you.

It’s quick, keeps things crispy, and is super easy to clean up.

Let’s dive into five protein-heavy recipes that’ll make you wonder why you didn’t try them sooner…

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Let’s start simple but seriously delicious. Air fryer chicken breast is a go-to for many reasons – it’s lean, easy to season, and perfect for adding to salads, wraps, or just eating on its own.

What you’ll need:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil/ 1 cal spray 
• Salt, pepper, and a seasoning of your choice

How to make it:

1. Rub the chicken with olive oil and season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C
3. Place the chicken breasts in the basket in a single layer and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Flip them over and cook for another 8-10 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 75°C 
5. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Perfectly juicy and crispy!

Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Salmon is a protein boost, plus you get those lovely omega-3s. These salmon bites are easy, tasty, and cook up perfectly in the air fryer.

What you’ll need:

• 2 salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil or 1 cal spray
• Salt, pepper, and seasoning of your choice
• Lemon wedges for serving

How to make it:

1. Toss the salmon cubes in olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 200°C 
3. Place the salmon in a single layer and cook for 7-8 minutes until they’re golden and cooked through.
4. Serve with lemon wedges – easy, fresh, and so satisfying.

Air Fryer Steak Bites

Steak in the air fryer? Yes, please! These steak bites are packed with protein and big on flavour.

What you’ll need:

• 200g sirloin or ribeye steak, cubed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce

How to make it:

1. Toss steak cubes with oil and seasonings.
2. Preheat air fryer to 200°C and cook for 6-8 minutes.

Homemade Nando’s-Style Peri-Peri Chicken Thighs

Get that iconic Nando’s flavour right at home! Juicy, spicy, and full of protein.

What you’ll need:

• 4-6 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1-2 tbsp peri-peri sauce

How to make it:

1. Whisk marinade ingredients and coat the chicken, marinating for at least 1 hour.
2. Cook in air fryer at 190°C for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Air Fryer Cheeseburgers

There’s nothing like a classic homemade cheeseburger, and the air fryer makes it quick and easy. 

What you’ll need:

• 450g beef mine (5% fat)
• Salt and pepper
• 4 slices of cheese (cheddar, American, or your favourite)
• Burger buns
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, sauce

How to make it:

1. Divide ground beef into four equal portions and shape into patties. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Place patties in the basket, being careful not to overcrowd.
3. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F).
4. Add a slice of cheese to each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt.
5. Assemble burgers with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

And there you have it! Five easy, protein-packed recipes that’ll keep you fueled and satisfied. The air fryer really does it all – from crispy chicken to perfectly tender salmon bites, it’s hard to go wrong. Give these a try, and let us know which one is your favourite by tagging us on Instagram @onecoachingofficial.