Cooking dinner every night can feel like a chore — not to mention the strain it puts on your wallet. But with the magic of an air fryer and Aldi’s unbeatable prices, whipping up quick, flavorful meals for two doesn’t have to break the bank or drain your energy.
I’ve perfected a few go-to recipes that keep dinner exciting without leaving me stressed or overspending. From crispy chicken to savory pizza bombs, here are three delicious air fryer meals I rely on weekly — all for under $50.
1. Chicken and Crusted Zucchini Bites
Mondays can be rough, but this healthy, 30-minute meal is the cure to the blues. Juicy air-fried chicken paired with crispy, crusted zucchini makes for a well-rounded dinner full of texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts ($5.96 for two): Aldi’s affordable chicken breasts make this meal budget-friendly at just $4.29 per pound.
- Zucchini ($1.88): Fresh and versatile, zucchini adds a flavorful crunch to the plate.
- Panko Bread Crumbs ($1.79): For that perfect airy crunch, panko breadcrumbs are a must-have.
- Large Grade A Eggs ($4.15): Essential for the breadcrumb coating, and a staple ingredient in my fridge.
- All-Purpose Flour ($2.35): Helps everything stick for maximum crunch.
Directions:
- Coat chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic salt, paprika, and oregano.
- Slice zucchini into rounds and dip in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
- Air fry the chicken at 400°F for 14 minutes. Remove, and bake the zucchini at 350°F for 10 minutes until golden.
Total Cost: $19.40
2. Honey Soy Salmon and Potatoes
By midweek, I’m craving something hearty yet indulgent. This honey-soy salmon and golden potato dish is the perfect sweet-savory combo. Bonus: It’s done in just over 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- Fresh Atlantic Salmon ($7.54): Aldi’s high-quality salmon fillets cost significantly less than competitors.
- Clover Honey ($3.69): Adds a touch of sweetness to the marinade.
- Soy Sauce ($1.55): Balances the honey’s sweetness with salty, umami notes.
- Honey Gold Bite-Size Potatoes ($3.99): Bite-sized and quick to cook, these potatoes are a no-waste win.
- Garlic Salt, Oregano, Paprika ($1.09 each): Affordable pantry staples that amp up flavor.
Directions:
- Toss halved potatoes in oil and season with garlic salt, oregano, and paprika. Air fry at 400°F for 15–20 minutes until crispy.
- Marinate salmon in a honey-soy glaze while potatoes cook.
- Air fry the salmon at 400°F for 15 minutes.
Total Cost: $20.04
3. Pizza Bombs
Need a crowd-pleaser or a quick lunch? These cheesy, pepperoni-stuffed pizza bombs are a hit for movie nights or appetizers. Plus, they’re ready in just 12 minutes!
Ingredients:
- Jumbo Buttermilk Biscuits ($1.85): Flaky on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and ridiculously affordable.
- Mama Cozzi’s Sliced Pepperoni ($2.49): A savory, budget-friendly favorite.
- Mozzarella String Cheese ($2.59): Perfect for gooey, melty centers.
- Butter and Parsley (Prices vary): Melted butter and parsley glaze add flavor and crunch.
Directions:
- Flatten biscuits and stuff with pepperoni and string cheese. Roll into balls and seal.
- Brush with melted butter mixed with parsley.
- Air fry at 350°F for 12 minutes until golden.
Total Cost: $11.32
The Bottom Line
Three meals for under $50? Yes, please! Thanks to Aldi’s affordable ingredients and the air fryer’s efficiency, dinner prep has never been easier or more budget-friendly.
Pro Tip: Check out Aldi’s freezer section for even quicker meal options that pair perfectly with your air fryer. Dinner just got a whole lot simpler — and tastier!