Air Fryer 101: 9 Tips for Crispier, Healthier Results

Air fryers have become one of the most popular kitchen appliances, and it's easy to see why. They cook quickly, need little to no oil and turn out wonderfully crispy food. But a few simple habits make the difference between soggy and spectacular. Here are our top tips.

1. Preheat for a few minutes

Just like an oven, an air fryer works best when it's hot before the food goes in. Preheating for 3 to 5 minutes helps food start crisping immediately.

2. Don't overcrowd the basket

Air fryers work by circulating hot air around food. If the basket is packed, air can't flow and food steams instead of crisping. Cook in a single layer, in batches if needed.

3. Use a little oil, not a lot

You don't need to deep fry, but a light coating of oil helps with browning and crunch. A spray bottle or a teaspoon tossed with vegetables is plenty. Avoid aerosol cooking sprays, which can damage nonstick basket coatings over time.

4. Shake or flip halfway

Give fries, wings and vegetables a shake halfway through cooking for even color on all sides. Many air fryers include a shake reminder to prompt you.

5. Pat food dry first

Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Pat vegetables, chicken and fish dry with paper towels before seasoning.

6. Lower the temperature from oven recipes

When converting an oven recipe, a good rule of thumb is to reduce the temperature by about 25°F and check the food a little earlier, since air fryers cook faster.

7. Use a thermometer for meat

Always check that meat and poultry reach a safe internal temperature. Chicken, for example, should reach 165°F at the thickest part.

8. Make the most of a dual-basket air fryer

A dual-basket air fryer lets you cook a main and a side at the same time, each at its own temperature. Use the sync function so both baskets finish together, and dinner is served hot, all at once.

9. Clean after every use

Let the basket cool, then wash it with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge. Wipe the inside of the unit to remove grease, which keeps food tasting fresh and helps your air fryer last longer.

Easy air fryer favorites to try

• Crispy potato wedges with garlic and paprika
• Honey-garlic chicken wings
• Roasted broccoli with parmesan
• Salmon fillets with lemon and herbs
• Reheated pizza that tastes freshly baked

Looking for an upgrade? Explore our range of air fryers and countertop ovens, from compact models to family-size dual baskets.