64 Vintage Recipes for ’70s Food Worth Trying Today

Step back into the vibrant culinary landscape of the 1970s, where bold flavours and adventurous combinations reigned supreme. From the extravagant fondue parties to the ever-popular quiche, this collection of 64 vintage recipes captures the essence of an era that celebrated innovation in the kitchen.

Imagine serving up a classic prawn cocktail, elegantly layered in a glass, or whipping up a creamy mushroom stroganoff that transports your taste buds straight to a retro dinner party. Whether it's the comforting warmth of a shepherd's pie or the exotic allure of chicken korma, these recipes are not just nostalgic; they are a delightful exploration of tastes that still hold a special place on our tables today.

With easy-to-follow instructions and an array of dishes that cater to every palate, this treasure trove of ’70s favourites invites a new generation to experience the joy of cooking and sharing meals that are every bit as relevant now as they were back then. So dust off that old recipe book and prepare to impress your friends with a menu steeped in history yet bursting with flavour!

Fried chicken is a beloved comfort food, and you can still achieve that crispy, golden delight without buttermilk. Here’s a simple recipe that promises flavour and crunch.

Begin by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of plain yoghurt and a splash of lemon juice, which will tenderise the meat and add a tangy flavour. Allow the chicken to soak for at least an hour, or overnight in the fridge for the best results.

Next, prepare the coating. In a large bowl, combine seasoned flour with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and your favourite spices—perhaps some smoked paprika or garlic powder for that extra kick. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off, and dredge it through the seasoned flour, ensuring every piece is generously coated.

Heat a deep frying pan or a heavy-bottomed pot filled with vegetable oil to around 180°C. Carefully lower the chicken pieces into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until the chicken is beautifully golden and crispy, roughly 12-15 minutes, or until the juices run clear when pierced.

Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack to drain any excess oil, and season lightly with salt while it’s still hot. Serve with a side of crispy chips or a fresh salad, and enjoy this delightful twist on a classic recipe!

Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Drumsticks | AirFried.com

If you're craving a delightfully crispy chicken experience without the guilt, look no further than these air fryer chicken drumsticks. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection, these drumsticks are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic favourite with far less oil. The air fryer circulates hot air around the chicken, creating a deliciously crisp skin while keeping the meat tender and juicy.

To achieve that coveted crunch, start by marinating the drumsticks in your choice of spices – a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne works wonders. Once seasoned, simply place them in the air fryer basket and let the magic happen. In about 25-30 minutes, you'll have perfectly cooked drumsticks that are sure to impress at any family gathering or casual dinner. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or your favourite dipping sauce for a delightful meal that's both hearty and wholesome. Enjoy the guilt-free crunch of air-fried chicken that’s irresistibly moreish!

Air fryer chicken tenderloins are the epitome of convenience and flavour, transforming humble ingredients into a delightful meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. It all starts with good food — tender, succulent chicken breast, marinated to perfection with aromatic herbs and spices. The air fryer allows you to achieve that coveted crispy exterior without the excess oil, retaining the juiciness within.

Simply season the chicken tenderloins with your favourite blend of seasonings, perhaps a touch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Place them in the air fryer basket, and let the magic happen. In a matter of minutes, you’ll enjoy golden-brown tenderloins that are perfect for dipping, serving alongside a fresh salad, or tucking into a soft roll for a quick sandwich.

The beauty of air fryer chicken tenderloins lies not only in their speed and ease of preparation but also in their adaptability. Pair them with various sauces or sides to suit your taste. With this simple cooking method, enjoying a home-cooked meal has never been so effortless — proving that when you start with good food, the result is always exceptional.

Succulent and juicy, the best air fryer boneless chicken thighs are a revelation for weeknight dinners. With a delightful blend of herbs and spices, these tender morsels come together in a matter of minutes. Start by marinating the chicken in a simple mixture of olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Once the thighs have soaked up the flavours, preheat your air fryer for a few moments to ensure a perfect crispy exterior.

Arrange the chicken in a single layer, allowing space for air circulation, and set the timer. In just 18-20 minutes, you’ll achieve a beautifully golden finish, while the interior remains moist and flavourful. Serve them with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. These air fryer boneless chicken thighs are not only quick and easy to prepare but also sure to impress the entire family with their irresistible taste and texture.

The air fryer has revolutionised the way we prepare crispy panko breaded chicken breast, delivering mouth-watering results with far less oil than traditional frying methods. To achieve that perfect crunch, start by marinating the chicken in a blend of tangy buttermilk and a sprinkle of paprika for added flavour. Once the chicken has soaked up the marinade, dredge it in seasoned flour before dipping it into beaten egg and finally coating it generously with panko breadcrumbs.

When placed in the air fryer, the chicken cooks evenly, and the hot air circulating around it creates a delightful golden crust. Set the fryer to a temperature of around 200 degrees Celsius and cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through for that extra crunch. The result is a beautifully crispy exterior while remaining tender and juicy inside, making this dish a delightful addition to any family meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a wholesome, delicious affair.

Crispy Baked Chicken Thighs with Panko and Parmesan Coating are the epitome of comfort food, perfect for a weekday dinner yet impressive enough for guests. The chicken thighs, seasoned generously with salt and pepper, are enveloped in a delightful mixture of panko breadcrumbs and finely grated Parmesan cheese. This combination not only provides a satisfying crunch but also infuses the meat with a rich, umami flavour.

To prepare, simply toss the thighs in a light coating of Dijon mustard before rolling them in the panko-Parmesan blend. A drizzle of olive oil ensures the coating crisps up beautifully in the oven, creating a golden-brown crust that encases the tender, juicy chicken within. Serve alongside seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad, and you have a dish that’s both hearty and wholesome, leaving everyone at the table coming back for seconds.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Lollipops are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that will elevate any casual gathering or family dinner. With their succulent meat and crispy skin, these lollipops are sure to please everyone at the table. The air fryer ensures a golden-brown finish while retaining all the juicy goodness, making them a healthier alternative to traditional frying.

Simply season the chicken drumsticks with your favourite spices, coat them lightly in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, and pop them into the air fryer. In just 25 minutes, you'll have perfectly cooked lollipops that are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Serve them with a zesty dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad for a meal that’s both satisfying and scrumptious. Ideal for parties, these chicken lollipops are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.

Air-fried Korean chicken wings are an absolute delight, combining the crispy texture we all crave with the bold flavours typical of Korean cuisine. These wings are marinated in a sumptuous blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey, allowing the flavours to penetrate deep into the succulent meat. Once marinated, they are air-fried to perfection, achieving a satisfying crunch without the heaviness of traditional frying.

The result is a golden-brown exterior that gives way to juicy, tender chicken within. To finish, a drizzle of spicy gochujang sauce adds a delightful kick, while a garnish of sesame seeds and chopped spring onions brings freshness and colour to the dish. Perfect as a starter or a tantalising snack, these air-fried wings are sure to impress at any gathering. Serve with a side of pickled radishes for a truly authentic experience.

Indulging in a Best Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delightful way to elevate a classic dish. Imagine succulent chicken breasts, expertly pounded to create the perfect pocket for a rich filling. A combination of creamy cheese, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs makes for a flavour-packed centre that will tantalise your taste buds.

Cooking this dish in an air fryer ensures that the chicken remains wonderfully juicy on the inside while developing a crispy, golden exterior. With minimal oil required, it's a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Simply season the chicken, stuff it generously, and place it in the air fryer for a quick and effortless meal that's ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded feast that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.