8 Best Meats to Cook in an Air Fryer for 2027
For 2027, the 8 best meats to cook in an air fryer include chicken breasts, sirloin, fish fillets, chicken tenders, brisket, pork shoulder, bone-in cuts, and marbled steaks. These meats are perfect for air frying because they come out juicy and flavorful every time.
Plus, the air fryer is a game changer for quick and easy cooking.
You’ll get the best results by picking the right cut and adjusting cook times based on thickness. Don’t forget to use proper temperature control to nail that perfect texture.
Whether you’re after quick, tender meals or slow-cooked richness, the air fryer’s versatility has got you covered.
Keep exploring to master perfect techniques and appliances for every meat type. It’s all about making your cooking simpler and tastier!
| Image | Name | Editor's Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
|
Chefman 4 QT Compact Air Fryer with Touchscreen
- FAST AND EASY: This compact air fryer handles any culinary challenge. Customize cooking time and temperature with the...
- 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY: Achieve the perfect finishing crunch on your air-fried favorites. Increase the heat to 450°F...
- STYLISH AND COMPACT: The sleek, narrow design of this air fryers maximizes its 4-quart capacity while minimizing its...
If kitchen space is limited but you want perfectly crispy meals, the Chefman 4 QT Compact Air Fryer with Touchscreen offers a smart solution. Its small footprint fits easily on any countertop, making it ideal for kitchens where space is at a premium. The 4-quart capacity is just right for preparing meals for 2 to 4 people without excess bulk.
This air fryer uses Hi-Fry Technology to reach temperatures up to 450°F, which helps achieve a crispy texture on meats like chicken tenders and steak. While the maximum cooking temperature stays at 400°F for most of the cycle, the brief boost to 450°F at the end enhances crispiness. Intuitive touchscreen controls with preset options simplify cooking, though some users might prefer more tactile feedback.
Maintenance is hassle-free with dishwasher-safe, nonstick parts that make cleanup quick and easy. Safety is also prioritized, featuring automatic shutoff and audible reminders to shake the basket for even cooking. These elements combine to make meal preparation efficient and worry-free.
Best for: Small households or individuals seeking a compact air fryer that delivers crispy, healthy meals with minimal cleanup and user-friendly digital controls.
What We Like:
- Compact size saves counter space while serving 2-4 portions.
- Hi-Fry Technology provides high heat for enhanced crispiness.
- Safety features include automatic shutoff and shake alerts.
- Dishwasher-safe parts simplify cleaning.
- User-friendly touchscreen with preset cooking modes.
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Chefman |
| Capacity | 4 quarts (approximately 3.8 liters) |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | Compact size (exact dimensions not specified) |
| Weight | Not specified |
| Material | Nonstick components for easy cleaning |
| Color Options | Not specified |
Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Multi-Function Air Fryer Toaster Oven
- A VERSATILE AIR FRYER AND MULTI-COOKER COMBO: Elevates practically any meal, from air frying quick after-school snacks...
- PERFECTLY DONE TOAST: Oven turns off automatically when the toast count-down timer ends, no burnt toast! Indicator light...
- DUAL-SPEED FAN: Golden fried crisping at its finest with 360º superheated air circulation for your homemade cooking.
Experience the convenience of cooking large meals with the Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Multi-Function Air Fryer Toaster Oven. Its spacious 26-quart capacity easily accommodates whole chickens, 12-inch pizzas, and full trays of cookies, making meal prep for families or guests simple and stress-free. The sleek stainless steel design with French doors not only adds style but also allows easy meal monitoring thanks to the built-in interior light.
This versatile oven combines multiple cooking functions such as air frying, roasting, broiling, and dehydrating, all controlled through an intuitive digital touchscreen. The 360º superheated air circulation ensures food cooks evenly and crisply, reducing the need for excess oil and making healthier meals effortless.
Maintenance is straightforward with the oven’s removable crumb tray and easy-to-clean interior surfaces. Although it requires significant counter space and weighs 26.5 pounds, its multifunctionality replaces several kitchen appliances, streamlining your cooking process.
Best for: Families and home cooks seeking a high-capacity, multi-functional appliance that supports efficient and healthy meal preparation.
What We Like:
- Large 26-quart capacity ideal for group cooking
- User-friendly digital touchscreen with 24 preset functions
- Even, crispy cooking with less oil thanks to 360º air circulation
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Emeril Lagasse |
| Capacity | 26 quarts |
| Weight | 26.5 lbs (12 kg) |
| Material | Stainless steel |
| Color | Stainless steel finish |
| Power | 1700 watts |
Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL Grill & Air Fryer
- SMART INDOOR GRILL & AIR FRYER COMBO: The Ninja Foodi Smart XL Grill is an all-in-one indoor electric grill and air...
- CYCLONIC GRILLING TECHNOLOGY: Enjoy authentic BBQ grill flavor indoors with 500°F cyclonic air that char-grills food...
- SMART COOK SYSTEM WITH THERMOMETER: The Foodi Smart Thermometer uses 4 protein presets and 9 doneness levels to take the...
The Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL Grill & Air Fryer transforms indoor cooking by combining six versatile functions into one compact appliance. It lets you grill, air fry, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate, giving you the freedom to prepare a wide range of meals without needing multiple devices. This unit uses cyclonic air technology to deliver crisp, flavorful results that bring authentic BBQ flavors indoors without smoke.
Designed for family-sized meals, its 4-quart capacity accommodates several steaks or hot dogs at once. The smart cook system, paired with a dual-sensor thermometer, ensures precise temperature control so your meats reach the perfect doneness every time. This feature eliminates guesswork and improves cooking consistency.
Maintenance is straightforward thanks to its easy-to-clean accessories and a sleek, modern design that fits well on most countertops. However, its size and weight may require dedicated space and limit portability. This makes it ideal for those with ample kitchen room who want a reliable all-in-one cooking solution.
Best for: Families and cooking enthusiasts seeking a versatile indoor appliance with precise temperature control and authentic BBQ flavor without outdoor grilling.
What We Like:
- 6-in-1 functionality for diverse cooking styles
- Smart Cook System with dual-sensor thermometer for accuracy
- Large 4-quart capacity for preparing multiple items at once
- Easy-to-clean accessories and sleek design
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Ninja |
| Dimensions | 15.75 x 16.54 x 11.1 inches |
| Weight | 22.4 pounds |
| Capacity | 4 quarts |
| Color Options | Not specified |
Ninja Foodi Air Fryer, 10 Qt DualZone, 6-in-1, Black, DZ302
- 2 INDEPENDENT BASKETS: The XL air fryer with 2 independent baskets that lets you cook 2 foods, 2 ways, at the same time...
- SMART FINISH & MATCH COOK: DualZone Technology allows you to choose between the Smart Finish feature, which unlocks...
- IQ BOOST: Optimally distributes power across each basket to cook a 6-lb. whole chicken and side as quickly as possible...
The Ninja Foodi Air Fryer DZ302 transforms how you cook large meals or multiple dishes at once. Its DualZone Technology features two separate 5-quart baskets, letting you prepare different foods simultaneously without mixing flavors. This means you can cook an entire family meal faster and with greater precision.
Each basket operates independently, so you control cooking times and temperatures separately. The Smart Finish and Match Cook functions help synchronize cooking, ensuring everything is ready at the same moment. This versatility simplifies meal prep and reduces stress during busy dinner times.
Designed for convenience, the Ninja Foodi DZ302 is easy to maintain. Its dishwasher-safe baskets and intuitive touch controls minimize cleanup time. Plus, the wide temperature range and six cooking modes adapt to various recipes, from crispy wings to tender roasts.
While its larger size requires ample counter space and uses more power than smaller models, the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer is ideal for those needing efficient multitasking in the kitchen. The initial learning curve for DualZone features is manageable and pays off with improved cooking control.
Best for: Large families or anyone who needs to cook multiple dishes simultaneously with precise control and efficiency.
What We Like:
- DualZone Technology allows independent cooking in two baskets.
- Six cooking modes and broad temperature range for recipe flexibility.
- Dishwasher-safe parts and touch controls for easy cleaning and use.
- Smart Finish and Match Cook features streamline meal timing.
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Ninja |
| Model | DZ302 |
| Capacity | 10 quarts (2 x 5 quarts) |
| Power | 1690 watts |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions (approx) | Not specified |
| Weight | Not specified |
CHEFMAN 2 Qt Digital Compact Air Fryer Black
- FAST AND EASY: This small air fryer comes prepared for any culinary challenge. The capacitive touch screen display can...
- HEALTHY COOKING: Say goodbye to excess oil and fat, and hello to healthy cooking. This mini air fryer uses little-to-no...
- SUPREME SPACE-SAVER: The square basket maximizes its 2-quart capacity. Housed in a sleek, narrow design to keep its...
Experience quick, healthy cooking with the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Digital Compact Air Fryer. Its compact size is ideal for small kitchens or limited counter space, solving the problem of bulky appliances. The sleek black design blends seamlessly with modern decor while maximizing functionality.
This air fryer delivers fast cooking with its 900W power, reducing meal prep time significantly. The digital touch panel allows precise temperature control up to 400°F and easy time adjustments. Cooking smaller portions for 1-2 people becomes effortless and efficient.
Maintenance is simple thanks to the nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket. Cleanup is quick, making it easy to maintain a tidy kitchen. The built-in shake reminder ensures food cooks evenly, delivering consistent crispiness every time.
Designed for individuals or small households, this air fryer supports healthy eating with less oil. Its compact footprint and automatic shutoff feature add safety and convenience. However, the 2-quart capacity limits larger meal preparation, and the 900W power may not suit heavy-duty cooking.
Best for: Small households or individuals needing a space-saving, easy-to-use air fryer for quick, healthy meals.
What We Like:
- Compact design with square basket maximizes 2-quart capacity
- Digital touch controls for precise temperature and time settings
- Dishwasher-safe, nonstick basket simplifies cleaning
- Shake reminder promotes even cooking and crispiness
- Automatic shutoff enhances safety during use
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | CHEFMAN |
| Capacity | 2 quarts (1.9 liters) |
| Power | 900 watts |
| Design | Compact, black, square basket |
| Dimensions | Not specified |
| Weight | Not specified |
Chefman 8 Qt TurboFry Air Fryer XL Basket
- FRY UP YOUR FAVORITES: Enjoy faster, healthier cooking for popular deep fryer foods like French fries, corn dogs...
- FOUR-IN-ONE COOKING: This touchscreen air fryer features four functions, including Air Fry, Bake, and Reheat. Our new...
- INTUITIVE CONTROLS: Set up your cooking with the easy-to-use touch control UI. TurboFry air fryers let you program your...
The Chefman 8 Qt TurboFry Air Fryer XL Basket is designed for those who regularly prepare large meals and need a reliable kitchen companion. Its spacious 8-quart basket allows you to cook generous portions of crispy chicken, juicy steaks, or roasted vegetables all at once, saving time and effort.
Controlling the cooking process is simple with the intuitive touchscreen, which offers temperatures up to 450°F. The unique TurboFry button enhances crispiness, ensuring your dishes have the perfect texture. Four cooking modes—Air Fry, Bake, Reheat, and Frozen—help you cook frozen foods evenly without guesswork.
Cleanup is hassle-free thanks to the nonstick basket that is dishwasher safe. The stainless steel body adds durability and a sleek look that fits many kitchen styles. Although it has a larger footprint, this model handles busy kitchens with ease and is cETL-certified for safety and reliability.
Best for: Those who frequently cook large family-sized meals and want a versatile, easy-to-use air fryer that delivers crispy, healthier dishes with minimal cleanup.
What We Like:
- Large 8-quart capacity ideal for family-sized portions
- Easy-to-use touchscreen with TurboFry button for extra crispiness
- Nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket for quick and easy cleaning
- Durable stainless steel design built for long-term use
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Chefman |
| Capacity | 8 quarts (7.6 liters) |
| Dimensions | Not specified |
| Weight | Not specified |
| Material | Stainless steel, nonstick basket |
| Color Options | Not specified |
OLIXIS Dual Air Fryers with 2 Baskets 9.5 Quarts Large Airfryer 10-in-1
- 9.5 QT Large Capacity with 2 Separate Baskets: Each 4.5L basket fits 1lb of fries, a whole chicken, or a 6-inch pizza...
- 10-in-1 Presets: One-touch programs for Bake, Dehydrate, Defrost, Steak, Chicken, Shrimp, and more. Achieve crispy...
- Smart Dual-Zone with Sync Functions: Match Cook copies time/temp settings across both baskets for large-batch cooking...
The OLIXIS Dual Air Fryers transform how you prepare meals by allowing you to cook two dishes at once. With two spacious 4.5-liter baskets, this air fryer lets you prepare a main course and a side dish simultaneously. This saves valuable time and simplifies meal preparation, especially for busy families.
Its 10-in-1 preset options cover a variety of foods, from steak to shrimp, making cooking straightforward. The digital controls allow precise temperature adjustments from 80°F to 450°F, so you can tailor your cooking to different recipes. The dual-zone Sync function can align cooking settings or finish times, ensuring your dishes are ready together.
Designed with stainless steel and ceramic-coated plates, the air fryer offers durability and easy cleaning. The auto shake reminder helps achieve consistently crispy results without guesswork. Although it has a larger footprint and weighs 15.1 pounds, its robust build supports frequent use.
Best for: Families and individuals who want to prepare multiple dishes quickly and efficiently, ideal for meal prepping and entertaining.
What We Like:
- Large dual 9.5-quart baskets for simultaneous cooking
- 10-in-1 presets with precise digital temperature control
- Durable stainless steel body with ceramic-coated plates
- Dual-zone Sync function for coordinated cooking
- Auto shake reminder for perfectly crispy results
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | OLIXIS |
| Dimensions | 16 x 14 x 11.5 inches |
| Weight | 15.1 pounds |
| Material | Stainless steel, ceramic-coated plates |
| Capacity | 2 x 4.5-liter baskets (9.5 quarts total) |
Gourmia Air Fryer – 14 Qt Rotisserie Oven with Window, Black
- All-in-One Cooking – 14 Qt Capacity Air Fryer Oven : Cook meals for the whole family with space for fries, roasts, and...
- Versatile Presets – 12 One-Touch Functions : From crispy fries to homemade jerky, just tap and let the air fryer do...
- FryForce 360° Technology – Crispy, Healthy Results : Enjoy the crunch you love with less fat than traditional frying.
Experience the convenience of preparing large meals with the Gourmia Air Fryer – 14 Qt Rotisserie Oven. Its generous 14-quart capacity allows you to cook multiple dishes or a whole rotisserie chicken with ease. This air fryer oven helps simplify meal prep by offering 12 one-touch presets, so you can achieve consistent results without guesswork.
The advanced FryForce 360° technology ensures even heat circulation, delivering crispy, flavorful foods with less fat. Adjustable temperatures up to 400°F let you customize cooking to suit various recipes. Its design combines functionality with style, featuring a sleek black finish that fits neatly on your countertop.
Cleanup is hassle-free thanks to dishwasher-safe accessories, saving time after cooking. While its larger size requires adequate counter space, this model balances capacity and convenience for busy kitchens. The plastic outer shell keeps it lightweight but may not be as durable as metal alternatives.
Best for: Families or individuals seeking a versatile, large-capacity air fryer oven that handles rotisserie and multiple cooking styles with easy presets and straightforward maintenance.
What We Like:
- Spacious 14-quart capacity for large or multiple meals
- 12 one-touch presets for simple cooking
- FryForce 360° technology for healthier, crispy results
- Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning
- Sleek, countertop-friendly black design
Specification:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Gourmia |
| Capacity | 14 quarts (approx. 13.25 liters) |
| Temperature | Up to 400°F (204°C) |
| Presets | 12 one-touch functions |
| Color | Black |
| Exterior | Plastic shell |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Meats in Air Fryer
When choosing meats for your air fryer, pay close attention to the cut and thickness since they affect cooking time and temperature settings. You’ll want to adjust these factors to guarantee even cooking and the best texture.
Also, marinating can boost flavor and help keep your meat tender during the air frying process. It’s a simple step that really makes a difference!
Meat Cut Selection
Choosing the right meat cuts can make or break your air frying results. Thinner cuts like chicken tenders or pork chops cook evenly and quickly, saving you time.
If you pick bone-in meats, expect longer cooking times. And remember to flip or shake them for even doneness.
Cuts with some marbling, such as certain steaks, lock in flavor and moisture. This makes your meal juicier and more delicious.
Tender cuts like boneless chicken breasts or sirloin are perfect for quick, tender results without much fuss. They’re really easy to work with.
Avoid thicker or tougher cuts like brisket or pork shoulder unless you’re willing to pre-cook or extend cooking time to get them tender. Picking the right cut guarantees your air fryer delivers delicious, perfectly cooked meat every time.
Cooking Time Variations
Several key factors influence how long your meat needs to cook in an air fryer, and understanding these will help you get perfect results every time. Different meats have varying cooking times; thicker cuts like chicken breasts or steaks require more time than thinner cuts such as chicken tenders or fish fillets.
If you start with frozen meat, expect to add extra cooking minutes to guarantee thorough doneness. Always consider the size and thickness of the meat, adjusting the cooking time accordingly to achieve the right crispiness and internal temperature.
Using a meat thermometer is a smart move—it helps you pinpoint when your meat is perfectly cooked, avoiding both undercooking and overcooking despite time variations. So, don’t just rely on the clock; trust your thermometer and your instincts for the best results.
Temperature Settings Impact
Because different meats demand specific temperatures to cook safely and taste their best, understanding your air fryer’s temperature settings is essential. For example, poultry needs to reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe to eat.
Using higher temperatures, like 450°F, works great for getting crispy textures on chicken tenders or French fries. But cooking at excessively high heat can dry out your meat and make it tough, so you need precise control.
Many air fryers let you adjust temperatures from about 194°F up to 500°F, giving you flexibility depending on the meat type and your desired doneness. Choosing the right temperature keeps your meat juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked without undercooking or overcooking risks.
Meat Thickness Importance
Two key factors determine how well your meat cooks in an air fryer: thickness and uniformity. Thinner cuts cook faster and more evenly, cutting down the risk of burning or overcooking.
Thicker pieces need longer cooking times and often lower temperatures to stay juicy without drying out. Measuring thickness before cooking helps you adjust time and temperature for the best results.
Uniform thickness ensures even heat distribution, so you won’t end up with undercooked or overdone spots. By paying attention to these details, you’ll get that perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender interior every time.
Keep thickness consistent, and you’ll master air frying meats with ease, making each meal deliciously satisfying. It’s all about those little details that make a big difference!
Marinating Benefits
Marinating your meat before air frying releases a whole new level of flavor and tenderness. When you soak your meat in a marinade with herbs, spices, and acids like vinegar or citrus juice, it breaks down muscle fibers and connective tissues. This makes your meat juicier and guarantees it cooks more evenly.
Plus, marinating can actually reduce cooking time since the meat softens beforehand, speeding up meal prep. You’ll also notice a crispier exterior because the moisture and oil from the marinade help achieve that perfect air-fried texture.
Beyond taste and texture, marinating helps minimize harmful compounds like heterocyclic amines that form during high-heat cooking. So, investing time in marinating your meat before air frying pays off in flavor, health, and efficiency.
Resting Time Effects
Resting your meat for 5 to 10 minutes after air frying makes a big difference in juiciness and tenderness. When you let your meat rest, the juices redistribute evenly, preventing moisture from escaping the moment you cut into it.
If you slice it right away, you’ll lose those precious juices, leaving it dry and less flavorful. Resting also stabilizes the internal temperature, ensuring your meat cooks evenly and reducing the risk of overcooking.
Depending on the size and type, this rest time allows collagen and muscle fibers to relax, improving texture and making every bite more enjoyable. So, always factor in resting time when cooking meats in your air fryer to get the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Marinate Meats Before Air Frying for Better Flavor?
Yes, you can marinate meats before air frying to boost flavor. Just make sure to pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
This helps achieve that perfect crispy texture you’re aiming for. It’s a simple step that really makes a difference!
How Do I Prevent Meat From Drying Out in an Air Fryer?
Don’t let your meat turn into a leather shoe! You’ll want to avoid overcooking, toss a bit of oil or marinade on, and use a meat thermometer—because nobody likes guessing games with their dinner, right?
Keeping an eye on the time and temperature can really save the day. Plus, a little oil helps lock in moisture and flavor. Easy peasy!
Are Frozen Meats Cooked Safely in an Air Fryer Without Thawing?
Yes, you can cook frozen meats safely in an air fryer without thawing. But you’ll need to increase the cooking time a bit.
Also, make sure to check the internal temperature. This guarantees it reaches a safe level before serving.
What Is the Best Way to Clean an Air Fryer After Cooking Meat?
You should unplug the air fryer and let it cool down first. This keeps things safe and prevents any accidents.
Then, go ahead and remove the basket. Soak it in warm, soapy water for a bit. After that, use a soft sponge to give it a good clean.
For the inside of the air fryer, just wipe it down with a damp cloth. Make sure to dry everything thoroughly before you use it again. Easy, right?
Can I Cook Multiple Types of Meat Simultaneously in One Air Fryer?
You can cook multiple types of meat simultaneously, but you’ll want to separate them with a rack or foil to avoid cross-contamination.
Also, adjust cooking times carefully since different meats need different temperatures and durations.
It might take a bit of trial and error, but with some attention, you can get it right! Just keep an eye on everything to make sure it’s cooked properly.
Conclusion
So, you want to be the air fryer meat maestro of 2027? Just pick any of these versatile air fryers, toss in your favorite cuts, and let the magic happen. Because who needs a grill when you’ve got science doing the heavy lifting?
If you’re craving crispy, juicy perfection without breaking a sweat, your air fryer’s got you covered. Welcome to the future—where meat meets technology, and you’re basically a kitchen superhero.
With these best meats to cook in an air fryer for 2027, you can enjoy quick, flavorful meals any day of the week. Whether it’s steak, chicken, or pork, the air fryer locks in the juiciness while giving you that perfect crispy finish. So go ahead, embrace the convenience and deliciousness of air frying—your new go-to method for mouthwatering, perfectly cooked meats.
