35+ Holiday Diabetic Air Fryer Holiday Recipes You Can Make Easy

The holidays are a time for celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food.

However, for those managing diabetes, finding the right dishes that are both festive and blood sugar-friendly can be a challenge.

Thankfully, the air fryer has become a game changer in the kitchen, offering a healthier way to cook your favorite holiday recipes with less oil, fewer carbs, and more flavor.

We’ve compiled 35+ holiday diabetic air fryer recipes that allow you to enjoy all the festive flavors while keeping your health in check.

Whether you’re preparing appetizers, sides, or main dishes, these recipes are designed to satisfy your taste buds without compromising your dietary needs.

From crispy Brussels sprouts to savory herb-crusted salmon, you’ll find a variety of options to make your holiday spread both enjoyable and diabetic-friendly.

35+ Holiday Diabetic Air Fryer Holiday Recipes You Can Make Easy

Embracing a healthier holiday season doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or fun. With the power of the air fryer, you can prepare a wide array of diabetic-friendly dishes that are as festive as they are nutritious.

From appetizers and sides to main courses and desserts, these 35+ holiday diabetic air fryer recipes are designed to bring joy to your table while supporting your health goals.

By swapping out excess fats and sugars for healthier alternatives and utilizing the air fryer for a crisp, light finish, you can enjoy all the holiday classics without the worry of blood sugar spikes.

So, next time you plan your holiday meal, make sure to include these delicious recipes that’ll leave your guests satisfied and your health intact.

Air Fryer Herb-Crusted Salmon

This herb-crusted salmon is a flavorful and nutritious dish, perfect for a holiday meal. The air fryer locks in moisture while creating a beautifully crisp herb coating. With its low carb and healthy fat content, it’s ideal for managing blood sugar while indulging in festive flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp dried dill
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and lightly coat with olive oil.
3. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, dill, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture generously over the top of each salmon fillet.
5. Place the salmon in the air fryer basket skin-side down. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Serve with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice and your choice of low-carb sides.

This dish combines simplicity with elegance, making it a showstopper on any holiday table. The crispy herb crust complements the tender salmon, creating a balance of texture and flavor. Its rich omega-3 content and lack of refined carbs make it perfect for guests managing diabetes while ensuring no compromise on holiday indulgence.

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

These air-fried Brussels sprouts are crispy, caramelized, and drizzled with a sugar-free balsamic glaze for a hint of sweetness. This side dish is a healthy and diabetic-friendly option that pairs beautifully with any holiday main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp sugar-free balsamic glaze

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Place the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping.
4. Transfer the cooked sprouts to a serving bowl and drizzle with sugar-free balsamic glaze before serving.

This dish offers a delightful mix of crunch and sweetness while staying diabetes-friendly. The air fryer ensures the Brussels sprouts are perfectly crispy without excess oil, while the sugar-free glaze adds a festive flair. It’s an effortless way to add a gourmet touch to your holiday table.

Air Fryer Cinnamon-Spiced Apples

These warm cinnamon-spiced apples are a guilt-free holiday dessert. Using natural sweetness from the apples and a hint of sugar substitute, this recipe satisfies your dessert cravings without spiking blood sugar levels.

Ingredients:

• 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Fuji)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar substitute (like erythritol)
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Core and slice the apples into ½-inch thick wedges.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar substitute, and lemon juice. Add the apple slices and toss to coat evenly.
4. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with melted butter and arrange the apple slices in a single layer.
5. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
6. Serve warm, optionally topped with a dollop of sugar-free whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed nuts.

This dessert brings holiday warmth and comfort with every bite. The air fryer caramelizes the apples beautifully, creating a naturally sweet treat that aligns with diabetic dietary needs. It’s a quick and easy recipe that feels indulgent without compromising health.

Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

These lemon garlic chicken thighs are juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and bursting with flavor. The air fryer ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked while minimizing the need for added fats, making it a great choice for anyone managing blood sugar during the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, skin-side down. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh citrus kick.

The combination of lemon and garlic creates a tangy, savory profile that is perfect for a holiday meal without being heavy. The air fryer’s high heat helps the skin become wonderfully crisp, while keeping the chicken moist and tender inside. This dish is a simple yet flavorful option for a diabetic-friendly holiday feast.

Air Fryer Stuffed Bell Peppers

These stuffed bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mix of ground turkey, quinoa, and spices. Air-frying them gives the peppers a slightly charred edge while keeping the stuffing moist and tender. This dish offers a healthy, low-carb alternative to traditional stuffed peppers, perfect for managing diabetes during the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded low-fat cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
3. In a skillet, cook the ground turkey with onion over medium heat until browned and fully cooked.
4. Add quinoa, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the turkey mixture and stir to combine.
5. Stuff the peppers with the turkey-quinoa mixture, packing them tightly.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the stuffed peppers.
7. Place the stuffed peppers in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted (if using).

Stuffed bell peppers are a satisfying and filling dish, making them perfect for a diabetic-friendly holiday meal. The air fryer gives them a unique texture, while the ground turkey and quinoa provide lean protein and fiber, making it a healthy yet hearty option for the season.

Air Fryer Zucchini Fries

These crispy air fryer zucchini fries are a great alternative to traditional deep-fried options. Coated in almond flour and seasoned with Italian spices, they’re low in carbs and perfect for a light, holiday appetizer. The air fryer crisps them up without excess oil, making them an ideal choice for diabetics looking for a healthier snack.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis
• ½ cup almond flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis into thin fries, about ¼-inch thick.
3. In a bowl, combine almond flour, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each zucchini fry into the beaten egg, then coat with the almond flour mixture.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray and place the zucchini fries in a single layer.
6. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until golden and crispy.

These zucchini fries offer a healthier version of a festive favorite, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to control their blood sugar without sacrificing taste. The almond flour provides a satisfying crunch, while the zucchini gives a light, fresh base that pairs well with holiday dips or as a side dish.

Air Fryer Shrimp Scampi

This shrimp scampi is a quick, low-carb dish that combines succulent shrimp with a buttery garlic sauce, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer. It’s a great way to enjoy a holiday-worthy meal without the high calorie count, making it perfect for diabetic-friendly dining.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges.

Shrimp scampi in the air fryer is a fast, flavorful dish that brings all the holiday elegance without the extra calories or carbs. The garlic and lemon sauce complements the shrimp perfectly, creating a satisfying meal that aligns with diabetic dietary needs. It’s a light yet indulgent option for festive gatherings.

Air Fryer Spicy Roasted Cauliflower

This spicy roasted cauliflower is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s ideal for the holiday table. The air fryer creates a crispy exterior while keeping the cauliflower tender on the inside, with a spicy kick that will delight your guests. It’s a healthy, low-carb alternative that complements any main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Place the cauliflower in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving, if desired.

This spicy roasted cauliflower delivers bold flavors with a satisfying texture. The air fryer ensures the cauliflower crisps up without the need for excessive oil, while the blend of spices adds depth and heat. It’s an excellent side dish that brings a unique touch to your holiday feast while keeping it diabetic-friendly.

Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs with Cranberry Sauce

These turkey meatballs are a healthy, lean alternative to traditional holiday meatballs. Combined with a homemade sugar-free cranberry sauce, they make a festive and flavorful dish perfect for a diabetic-friendly holiday appetizer or main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 egg
• ½ cup almond flour
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp sugar substitute (like stevia or erythritol)
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground turkey, egg, almond flour, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the turkey mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning the meatballs halfway through until browned and cooked through.
5. While the meatballs cook, combine the cranberries, water, sugar substitute, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
6. Serve the turkey meatballs with the homemade cranberry sauce on top.

These turkey meatballs paired with sugar-free cranberry sauce create a festive, hearty dish that’s perfect for the holidays. The air fryer cooks the meatballs to a golden crisp, while the cranberry sauce adds a sweet and tangy contrast. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a diabetic-friendly holiday meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or tradition.

Air Fryer Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges

These roasted sweet potato wedges are naturally sweet and perfectly crisped in the air fryer. Tossed in olive oil and a blend of savory spices, they’re a great side dish that adds both flavor and nutrition to your holiday table without the high glycemic load of traditional fries.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, cut into wedges
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the sweet potato wedges in a bowl with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Arrange the sweet potato wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the wedges are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite diabetic-friendly dipping sauce.

These air-fried sweet potato wedges are a delightful, healthier version of traditional fries. The smoky paprika and hint of cinnamon enhance the natural sweetness of the potatoes, while the air fryer ensures they are perfectly crispy with minimal oil. This dish is a great option for adding a festive touch to your holiday meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Green Beans

These garlic Parmesan green beans are a simple yet elegant side dish that makes the perfect accompaniment to any holiday meal. The air fryer crisps the green beans while the garlic and Parmesan add a savory richness, making them a diabetic-friendly choice for a flavorful holiday side.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the green beans with olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the green beans in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the beans are crispy and tender.
5. Once cooked, sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the green beans and toss to coat. Serve immediately.

These garlic Parmesan green beans are a simple yet flavorful side dish that is both healthy and indulgent. The air fryer brings out the crispiness in the green beans, while the garlic and Parmesan give them a rich, savory flavor. It’s a perfect side to pair with any holiday main dish while keeping the meal diabetic-friendly and delicious.

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Air Fryer Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

These balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts are a delightful, crispy side dish perfect for holiday gatherings. The air fryer helps achieve a golden brown, crunchy exterior while the balsamic glaze adds a tangy and sweet finish, making this dish both flavorful and diabetic-friendly.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey or sugar substitute
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange the Brussels sprouts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until golden brown and crispy.
4. While the sprouts cook, mix balsamic vinegar and honey (or sugar substitute) in a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, until the glaze thickens slightly.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the cooked Brussels sprouts before serving.

The crispy texture of the Brussels sprouts paired with the sweet and tangy balsamic glaze creates a perfect side dish for a holiday meal. This dish provides a flavorful addition to your diabetic-friendly spread, as it’s light on carbs and packed with nutrients.

Air Fryer Stuffed Mushrooms with Spinach and Feta

These stuffed mushrooms are an elegant appetizer or side dish that is both savory and satisfying. Filled with spinach, feta cheese, and garlic, they’re cooked in the air fryer for a perfectly crispy and delicious bite. This dish is ideal for anyone managing blood sugar levels, as it’s low in carbs and high in flavor.

Ingredients:

• 12 large mushroom caps, stems removed
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the cream cheese and feta cheese until the mixture is well combined.
4. Spoon the spinach and feta mixture into the mushroom caps, filling them generously.
5. Place the stuffed mushrooms in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is slightly golden.
6. Serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.

These stuffed mushrooms are a flavorful and nutritious option that can easily be incorporated into a diabetic-friendly holiday meal. The creamy spinach and feta filling provides richness and texture, while the air fryer ensures they are perfectly cooked with minimal oil.

Air Fryer Herb-Crusted Salmon

This herb-crusted salmon is an elegant and healthy dish that cooks quickly in the air fryer, making it perfect for a holiday meal. The crust of herbs and spices adds depth of flavor to the salmon, while the air fryer ensures a perfectly cooked, flaky fish. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a light yet festive entrée.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Sprinkle the chopped parsley and dill over the top of the salmon, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the salmon fillets in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Serve the salmon with a wedge of lemon.

This herb-crusted salmon is a light yet flavorful holiday dish that pairs perfectly with any side. The air fryer ensures the salmon is cooked to perfection while keeping it moist and flaky inside. With minimal effort and few ingredients, this dish offers a simple yet elegant way to elevate your holiday table in a diabetic-friendly way.

Air Fryer Cauliflower Rice with Herbs

This cauliflower rice with herbs is a low-carb, flavorful side dish that makes a great accompaniment to any holiday meal. Light and fluffy, with the added bonus of fresh herbs, this dish is a great alternative to traditional rice and can be made in the air fryer with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium cauliflower, grated or processed into rice-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the cauliflower rice with olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the cauliflower rice in an even layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and slightly crispy.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

This herb-infused cauliflower rice is a light, nutrient-packed side dish that’s perfect for the holidays. The air fryer ensures the cauliflower rice is fluffy yet slightly crispy, making it a satisfying, low-carb alternative to traditional rice. It pairs beautifully with any main dish while keeping your holiday meal diabetic-friendly.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!