30+ Delicious Friday Diabetic Air Fryer Recipes to Enjoy Without Worry

Fridays are meant to be a time to unwind, enjoy a delicious meal, and kick off the weekend.

For those living with diabetes, however, it can be a challenge to find recipes that are both satisfying and health-conscious.

Enter the air fryer – a game-changing kitchen appliance that allows you to create crispy, flavorful dishes with less oil and fewer carbs.

Whether you’re looking for a savory snack or a full meal, air frying offers a quick, healthy solution to your Friday night dinner dilemma.

We’ve compiled over 30 diabetic-friendly air fryer recipes that will help you enjoy the end of the week without compromising your health goals.

These recipes are designed to fit into a diabetic meal plan, keeping blood sugar levels stable while still delivering on taste.

From crispy snacks like air-fried avocado fries and eggplant Parmesan to heartier meals such as chicken fajitas and cod with lemon dill sauce, there’s something for everyone.

These recipes are not only low in carbs and sugars but also rich in flavor, making them the perfect way to enjoy your Friday meals without the guilt.

30+ Delicious Friday Diabetic Air Fryer Recipes to Enjoy Without Worry

With these 30+ diabetic-friendly air fryer recipes, your Fridays just became a whole lot easier and more enjoyable.

You don’t have to sacrifice flavor to manage your diabetes – the air fryer is here to help you create healthy, satisfying meals that will leave you feeling great.

From crispy snacks to hearty entrees, these recipes are simple, delicious, and perfect for anyone looking to eat well while managing their blood sugar.

Crispy Air-Fried Zucchini Chips

Zucchini chips are a guilt-free, diabetic-friendly snack perfect for Fridays. These crispy delights satisfy cravings for something crunchy while keeping carbs and calories in check. With simple ingredients and a quick air fryer cook time, you can enjoy this healthy treat in no time.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• ½ cup almond flour
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 large egg
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice zucchinis into thin, even rounds.
3. In a bowl, mix almond flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. In another bowl, whisk the egg.
5. Dip each zucchini slice into the egg, then coat it in the flour mixture.
6. Place coated zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
7. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve immediately with a side of low-fat yogurt or a sugar-free marinara dip.

These zucchini chips are a crunchy and satisfying way to end your week on a healthy note. Pair them with your favorite diabetic-friendly dip and enjoy a guilt-free treat that delights your taste buds.

Air-Fried Lemon Herb Salmon

This lemon herb salmon is a light yet flavorful dinner option for diabetics looking for a healthy Friday meal. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids and bursting with fresh, zesty flavors, it’s a satisfying way to prioritize health without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets (4-6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried dill
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, dill, and minced garlic.
4. Brush the mixture generously over the salmon fillets.
5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh side salad.

This air-fried salmon delivers a perfect balance of tangy, herby flavors and tender texture. It’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that supports diabetic health while keeping dinner time stress-free and delicious.

Garlic Parmesan Air-Fried Green Beans

Garlic Parmesan green beans are a quick, nutritious, and diabetic-friendly side dish or snack for a Friday evening. These crispy, flavorful beans are packed with vitamins and low in carbs, making them a perfect addition to your meal rotation.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss the green beans in a bowl with olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the green beans in an even layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping.
5. Serve warm as a snack or side dish.

These green beans are a deliciously crispy way to sneak more vegetables into your diet. Perfectly seasoned with garlic and Parmesan, they are a delightful choice for a healthy, diabetic-friendly Friday meal.

Air-Fried Cauliflower Bites

These air-fried cauliflower bites are a wonderful, low-carb alternative to traditional fried snacks. Coated in a savory batter and seasoned with spices, they are a perfect diabetic-friendly snack or side dish for a flavorful and guilt-free Friday evening.

Ingredients

• 1 medium cauliflower, cut into florets
• ½ cup almond flour
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk the egg. In another bowl, combine almond flour, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each cauliflower floret into the egg, then coat it in the flour mixture.
4. Place the coated florets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve with a sugar-free dipping sauce or a yogurt-based dip.

These crispy cauliflower bites are an easy, tasty snack or side that offers a boost of fiber and vitamins while keeping carbs low. A healthy yet indulgent choice that’s sure to satisfy your craving for something crunchy.

Air-Fried Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles

This dish is a delicious combination of lean turkey meatballs and zucchini noodles, providing a protein-packed, low-carb meal that’s perfect for a diabetic-friendly Friday dinner. The air fryer ensures the meatballs come out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, while the zucchini noodles add a refreshing crunch.

Ingredients
For the meatballs:

• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the zucchini noodles:

• 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the ground turkey, egg, Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until fully cooked through and browned on the outside.
4. While the meatballs cook, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the zucchini noodles and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve the turkey meatballs over the zucchini noodles.

This meal is a great way to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful dinner that’s low in carbs and high in protein. The turkey meatballs are packed with flavor, and the zucchini noodles provide a light, refreshing texture that complements the rich meatballs perfectly.

Air-Fried Chicken Tenders with Avocado Dip

These crispy, air-fried chicken tenders are a great choice for a healthy, diabetic-friendly meal or snack. They’re made with a gluten-free breadcrumb coating and paired with a creamy avocado dip for a complete and satisfying dish.

Ingredients
For the chicken tenders:

• 2 chicken breasts, cut into strips
• ½ cup almond flour
• ½ cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten
• Cooking spray

For the avocado dip:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine almond flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip the chicken strips into the beaten egg, then coat them in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket and spray lightly with cooking spray.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
6. For the dip, mash the avocado and mix with lime juice, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve the chicken tenders with the avocado dip on the side.

These chicken tenders are crispy, flavorful, and much healthier than traditional fried versions. The creamy avocado dip adds a rich texture and a dose of healthy fats, making this dish a satisfying choice for a Friday meal that keeps your blood sugar in check.

Air-Fried Spaghetti Squash with Tomato Basil Sauce

Spaghetti squash is an excellent low-carb alternative to pasta and a great choice for a diabetic-friendly meal. Paired with a tangy tomato basil sauce, this dish offers a hearty, satisfying option for a Friday dinner, minus the carbs.

Ingredients

• 1 medium spaghetti squash
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup low-sugar marinara sauce
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the squash halves in the air fryer basket, cut side down. Cook for 20-25 minutes, until the flesh is tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.
4. While the squash cooks, heat the marinara sauce in a pan over medium heat. Stir in fresh basil leaves.
5. Once the squash is cooked, use a fork to scrape out the spaghetti-like strands.
6. Serve the spaghetti squash topped with the tomato basil sauce.

This air-fried spaghetti squash is a light yet satisfying dish that provides a great base for a flavorful, low-carb marinara sauce. It’s a comforting, nutrient-packed meal that’s perfect for maintaining balanced blood sugar levels while enjoying a hearty meal.

Air-Fried Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan made in the air fryer offers a healthy, diabetic-friendly twist on the classic dish. With crispy eggplant slices coated in a Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, it’s a satisfying and flavorful way to enjoy a low-carb meal while still indulging in comfort food.

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup sugar-free marinara sauce
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine almond flour, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the beaten egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place the coated eggplant slices in the air fryer basket, spraying lightly with cooking spray.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
6. Heat the marinara sauce in a pan.
7. Serve the crispy eggplant slices topped with marinara sauce and fresh basil.

This air-fried Eggplant Parmesan offers all the flavor of the classic recipe without the excess oil and carbs, making it a great diabetic-friendly option. It’s a filling and comforting meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and healthy.

Air-Fried Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce

For seafood lovers, these crispy air-fried shrimp are a delicious and low-carb option for a diabetic-friendly Friday dinner. Paired with a flavorful garlic butter sauce, this dish is sure to impress while keeping your blood sugar levels in check.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the shrimp in olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp are cooked through and golden.
4. In a small pan, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Toss the cooked shrimp in the garlic butter sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
6. Serve immediately with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

These air-fried shrimp are perfectly seasoned, crispy, and bursting with flavor. Paired with the rich garlic butter sauce, they make for an indulgent yet healthy meal that’s perfect for a Friday night, and they fit perfectly within a diabetic-friendly diet.

Air-Fried Turkey Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

This air-fried turkey bacon-wrapped asparagus is a perfect low-carb, diabetic-friendly snack or side dish. The smoky flavor of turkey bacon combined with the freshness of asparagus creates a delightful contrast that’s both savory and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 8 slices turkey bacon
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of turkey bacon.
3. Place the wrapped asparagus in the air fryer basket, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender.
5. Serve immediately as a snack or side dish.

These bacon-wrapped asparagus spears are a simple yet indulgent treat. The crispy turkey bacon pairs beautifully with the tender asparagus, making it a perfect side dish or snack for a diabetic-friendly dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Air-Fried Tofu with Peanut Sauce

This air-fried tofu with peanut sauce is a delicious and protein-packed vegetarian dish, perfect for a diabetic-friendly Friday meal. The crispy tofu, paired with a creamy, flavorful peanut sauce, makes for a satisfying, low-carb dish that’s full of flavor and texture.

Ingredients
For the tofu:

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the peanut sauce:

• 3 tbsp natural peanut butter
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp honey or stevia (optional)
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• Water to thin

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss the tofu cubes with olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the tofu cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tofu is golden and crispy.
4. While the tofu cooks, whisk together all the peanut sauce ingredients in a bowl, adding water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Once the tofu is ready, drizzle with the peanut sauce and serve with a side of steamed vegetables or quinoa.

This air-fried tofu with peanut sauce is a flavorful, protein-rich dish that’s perfect for those following a diabetic-friendly meal plan. The combination of crispy tofu and creamy peanut sauce is both satisfying and delicious, making it a great option for a filling Friday meal.

Air-Fried Chicken Fajitas

These air-fried chicken fajitas are a healthy, low-carb twist on a Mexican classic, making them perfect for a diabetic-friendly Friday dinner. The chicken is seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices, air-fried to perfection, and served with crisp bell peppers and onions for a satisfying, well-balanced meal.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lime wedges and fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the chicken strips with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the seasoned chicken, bell peppers, and onions in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve the chicken and vegetables with lime wedges and fresh cilantro on top.

This dish is a flavorful, vibrant option for a healthy Friday dinner. The air fryer cooks the chicken to perfection while keeping it juicy, and the vegetables add color and crunch. A perfect, diabetic-friendly twist on fajitas!

Air-Fried Avocado Fries

These air-fried avocado fries are a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional fries and a great snack or side dish for a diabetic-friendly Friday meal. The creamy avocado inside is complemented by a crispy outer coating, making them a satisfying and healthy treat.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados, sliced into wedges
• ½ cup almond flour
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine almond flour, Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each avocado wedge into the beaten egg, then coat it in the almond flour mixture.
4. Place the coated avocado wedges in the air fryer basket, spraying lightly with cooking spray.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
6. Serve immediately with a side of Greek yogurt dip or a sugar-free salsa.

These avocado fries are the perfect combination of creamy and crispy. The healthy fats from the avocado paired with the crunchy coating make them a great snack or side that fits well into a diabetic-friendly diet.

Air-Fried Stuffed Mushrooms

These air-fried stuffed mushrooms are a perfect appetizer or side dish for a diabetic-friendly Friday dinner. Filled with a delicious mixture of garlic, herbs, and cheese, they’re a low-carb, flavorful option that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 12 large button mushrooms, stems removed
• 2 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Spoon the mixture into each mushroom cap, pressing gently to fill.
4. Place the stuffed mushrooms in the air fryer basket, spray lightly with cooking spray, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley.

These stuffed mushrooms are a rich, savory treat that’s perfect for a diabetic-friendly meal. The creamy filling is balanced with the earthiness of the mushrooms, making them a satisfying and low-carb option for any occasion.

Air-Fried Cod with Lemon Dill Sauce

This air-fried cod is a light, flaky, and healthy fish dish that’s perfect for a diabetic-friendly Friday meal. Paired with a tangy lemon dill sauce, it’s both refreshing and flavorful, making for a satisfying, protein-packed dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 cod fillets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brush the cod fillets with olive oil and season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the cod fillets in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
4. While the fish cooks, mix the lemon juice, dill, and Greek yogurt in a bowl.
5. Serve the cod fillets with the lemon dill sauce on the side.

This air-fried cod with lemon dill sauce is a light yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for maintaining a balanced diet while still enjoying a delicious dinner. The cod is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the lemon dill sauce adds a refreshing tang to the dish.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!