Air Fryer Recipes {Easy and Healthy Recipes} – WellPlated.com https://www.wellplated.com/category/recipes-by-type/air-fryer/ Recipes for a Wholesome Life Thu, 22 Jun 2023 00:08:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 https://www.wellplated.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/cropped-favicon-268x268.png Air Fryer Recipes {Easy and Healthy Recipes} – WellPlated.com https://www.wellplated.com/category/recipes-by-type/air-fryer/ 32 32 Get the Crispiest Sweet Potato Fries in Your Air Fryer https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-sweet-potato-fries/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-sweet-potato-fries/#comments Tue, 09 May 2023 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=72038 Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

crispy sweet potato air fryer friesThese crispy air fryer sweet potato fries use only 2 teaspoons of oil. Seasoned to perfection, they're a healthy way to enjoy fries at home!

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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries crispy sweet potato air fryer fries

Delightfully crispy, surprisingly healthy, and incredibly easy—these Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries have it all! Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce and just try not to eat them all.

crispy sweet potato air fryer fries

A dead ringer for their deep-fried counterparts, these air fryer sweet potato fries have the irresistibility of your restaurant favorites but with a fraction of the oil (you can even make air fryer sweet potato fries with NO oil if you prefer).

As with these baked Sweet Potato Fries and Sweet Potato Wedges, there’s ZERO deep frying, but the fries are still golden and crisp.

They’re a guilt-free, healthy side dish you can enjoy as often as you please.

As a bonus, these air fryer sweet potato fries are easy and weeknight-friendly too, especially when paired with Air Fryer Hamburgers.

crispy air fryer sweet potato fries on a plate with small bowl of ketchup

5 Star Review

UH-MAZE-ING. We ate the whole batch!

— Anita —

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

This recipe has all the tips you need to make sure your sweet potato fries don’t get soggy. (Nope, you don’t need to soak your sweet potato fries in water!)

Season these healthy fries however you please, and dip to your heart’s content.


The Ingredients

  • Sweet Potatoes. An excellent source of fiber, beta carotene, potassium, and more, sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse. (Love ‘em? Be sure to check out these yummy oven Roasted Sweet Potatoes. Or try this Air Fryer Sweet Potato recipe if you don’t want fries.)

Market Swap

For healthy fries made with regular potatoes, check out my classic Air Fryer French Fries. Or for a different style of potato in the air fryer, try Air Fryer Baked Potato.

  • Olive Oil. 2 teaspoons per pound of sweet potato is all the oil you need to air fry them with success.

Substitution Tip!

  • For air fryer sweet potato fries no oil style, you can omit the oil. The fries will taste dryer—which is why I find using a little heart-healthy olive oil completely worth it—but you can still cook them with success.
  • You can also make these fries with canola oil, avocado oil, or peanut oil.
  • Seasonings. Keep it simple with salt and pepper or switch it up with your favorite seasoning blends. Garlic and paprika are our go-to’s; see below for more ideas.

TIP!

To help the flavor pop, sprinkle the fries with a pinch of additional kosher salt immediately after removing them from the air fryer.

The Directions

sweet potato sticks sliced for air fryer
  1. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes lengthwise into strips. Then, preheat the air fryer.
sweet potato fries in a bowl
  1. Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with seasoning.
sweet potato fries in the air fryer
  1. For extra crispiness, place in the air fryer in one layer.
sweet potato fries in the air fry with little oil
  1. Air fry sweet potato fries for 4 minutes, flip, then continue for 4 to 8 additional minutes, until they’re as crispy as you’d like. Sprinkle with a bit more salt. Enjoy!
Overhead view of crispy air fryer sweet potato fries on plate with ketchup

Keeping Sweet Potato Fries from Getting Soggy

If your air fryer fries are soggy, it is likely because you over-crowded them in the basket. The sweet potatoes steam when crowded together, instead of air frying.

  • For the best, most crispy results, cook the fries in a single layer so that the air has room to circulate.
  • For decent results, you can cook up to two layers of sweet potato fries at once. Be sure the layers are not tightly packed and toss the fries in the basket often to promote even cooking.

Some recipes call for soaking the sweet potatoes in water prior to cooking them to help remove some of the starch and make the fries more crispy.

When making fries with sweet potatoes, I found this step didn’t make enough of a difference to be worth the effort. (Save soaking for Baked French Fries and Air Fryer Potato Wedges; regular potatoes have more starch than sweet potatoes, so soaking does make an important difference!)

Sweet Potato Seasoning Ideas

  • Cajun Sweet Potato Fries. Toss the fries in your favorite Cajun seasoning. Wait to season with salt to taste at the end, since Cajun seasoning blends typically already contain salt.
  • Spicy Sweet Potato Fries. Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
  • Parmesan Sweet Potato Fries. Top your air fried sweet potato fries with 1 to 2 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan.
  • Sweet Sweet Potato Fries. Toss the sweet potatoes with salt, a pinch of cinnamon, and a pinch of brown sugar.

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Refrigerate leftover sweet potato fries in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • To Reheat. For the best results, reheat leftover fries in the air fryer at 375 degrees F or in a 400 degrees F oven (I like to preheat the pan in the oven while it warms up); spread the fries in a single layer on the hot pan and recrisp. Air fryer fries reheat better than regular fries, since the lesser amount of oil prevents them from getting soggy.
  • To Freeze. Freeze fries in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to an airtight container or ziptop bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.

Meal Prep Tip

  • You also can use this recipe for frozen air fryer sweet potato fries. Keep a bag of your favorite brand in the freezer, then cook them in the air fryer instead of the oven. Or better yet, make a double or triple batch of these healthy homemade air fryer sweet potato fries and freeze them yourself.
  • To cook air fryer sweet potato fries from frozen. Coat your air fryer basket with nonstick spray and preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F. Arrange the frozen sweet potato fries in a single layer in the basket (no need to toss them in oil). Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, turning the fries once about 6 minutes into the cook time.
air fryer sweet potato fries on a plate with small bowl of ketchup

What to Serve With Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

  • Chef Knife. This 8-inch chef knife is made from a single piece of steel and stays sharper for longer.
  • Cutting Board. A durable, non porous, polypropylene cutting board that doesn’t dull knives.
  • Air Fryer. This 5.5-quart Ninja air fryer preheats fast, thoroughly circulates air for prime crispiness, and cleans in a breeze.

I hope you fight over these sweet potato fries as much as we do. And I mean that in the best possible way!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Sweet Potato Fries Actually Healthy?

Traditional sweet potato fries kind of negate all of the health benefits of sweet potatoes with the deep frying and salt. Air fryer sweet potato fries are made with only a small amount of oil for fewer calories and you control the amount of sodium, which means: yes, they are actually healthy! You can read more about the benefits of sweet potatoes here.

Why Are My Sweet Potato Fries Burning in the Air Fryer?

If you cut your sweet potato fries in uneven sizes (i.e., some much thinner than others), the smaller fries may start to burn while the thicker fries are still cooking. If all of the fries are burning, the temperature of your air fryer is too high or the fries have been cooking for too long.

How Do You Fix Mushy Sweet Potato Fries?

Unfortunately, once your fries are mushy, there’s not much you can do to crisp them up. If the fries are packed into the basket too tightly, they will steam and soften.

crispy sweet potato air fryer fries
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Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries

These crispy air fryer sweet potato fries use only 2 teaspoons of oil. Seasoned to perfection, they're a healthy way to enjoy fries at home!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 3 to 4 people
Calories 91kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Scrub the sweet potatoes and peel if desired (I leave the peels on). Cut the sweet potatoes in half lengthwise. Turn the halves cut-side down onto your cutting board, the slice each half lengthwise into 1/4-inch-wide strips (a mandoline is the best way to get even fries; watch your fingers!).
    sweet potato sticks sliced for air fryer
  • Turn the strips on their sides and cut each into 1/4-inch sticks. If the sticks are long, slice them in half crosswise so that your fries are about 3 to 4 inches. Transfer the fries to a large mixing bowl.
  • To keep the fries warm between batches, preheat the oven to 200°F and keep a baking sheet handy.
  • Drizzle the sweet potato fries with the oil and sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Toss to coat, making sure the spices and oil are well distributed.
    sweet potato fries in a bowl
  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F according to the manufacturer’s instructions. (For my air fryer, that is 3 minutes of preheat time).

FOR SOMEWHAT CRISPY, HIGHLY SATISFYING SWEET POTATO FRIES IN FEWER BATCHES:

  • Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, doing no more than two layers (my air fryer is 5 1/2 quarts and I can add about 1/3 of the fries). Make sure the fries have plenty of room so that the air can circulate. Cook the sweet potato fries for 5 minutes.
  • Slide the basket out and use tongs to toss. Return to the air fryer and continue cooking for 5 to 7 additional minutes, until browned at the edges and crispy. The time can vary by several minutes based on your air fryer model and how done you like your fries. Check often during the last few minutes to make sure the fries don’t burn.

FOR SUPER CRISPY SWEET POTATO FRIES IN MORE BATCHES:

  • Place the sweet potatoes in just one layer in the basket, being careful that they do not overlap. Cook for 4 minutes, slide the basket out and flip, then continue cooking for 4 to 8 additional minutes, until the fries are as crispy as you would like (again, the time will vary based on your model, so check them several times and adjust as needed).
    sweet potato fries in the air fryer
  • Remove the sweet potato fries to a baking sheet or a serving plate and immediately sprinkle with an additional pinch of kosher salt. Repeat with remaining sweet potatoes, keeping the cooked fries warm in the oven between batches as desired. Top with chives and enjoy!
    sweet poertato fries in the air fry with little oil

Video

Notes

  • *You can make the sweet potato fries with no oil if you prefer, but they will not be as crisp. Be sure to coat the fryer basket very well with nonstick spray.
  • In the recipe video, I am making a curry variation with salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon curry powder.
  • TO STORE: Refrigerate leftover sweet potato fries in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • TO REHEAT: For the best results, rewarm leftover fries in the air fryer at 375°F or in a 400°F oven (I like to preheat the pan in the oven while it warms up); spread the fries in a single layer on the hot pan and recrisp. Air fryer fries reheat better than regular fries, since the lesser amount of oil inherently prevents them from getting soggy.
  • TO FREEZE: Freeze fries in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to an airtight container or ziptop bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
 
 

Nutrition

Serving: 1of 3 | Calories: 91kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Potassium: 270mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 10853IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 1mg

Related Recipes

It’s always good to have some back-pocket sides to round out your dinner. Here are some of my favorite side dish recipes:

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Air Fryer Pork Chops https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-pork-chops/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-pork-chops/#comments Sat, 29 Apr 2023 10:03:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=65035 Air Fryer Pork Chops

An air fryer pork chop cut into slicesWhether a childhood of overcooked pork chops left you with an adulthood aversion or you are their biggest fan, these flavorful Air Fryer Pork Chops will have you falling freshly in love. They’re lightly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside (NOT DRY), and ready in just 20 minutes. To the pork chops skeptics:…

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Air Fryer Pork Chops An air fryer pork chop cut into slices

Whether a childhood of overcooked pork chops left you with an adulthood aversion or you are their biggest fan, these flavorful Air Fryer Pork Chops will have you falling freshly in love. They’re lightly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside (NOT DRY), and ready in just 20 minutes.

An air fryer pork chop cut into slices

To the pork chops skeptics: I see you.

Until I perfected Crock Pot Pork Chops and Grilled Pork Chops, my only experience with the cut was as a hard-to-saw (and even harder to chew) piece of protein I did my best to pick around.

  • Pork chops cooked in the air fryer are juicy inside and crispy outside (without the need for egg and flour or Panko breadcrumbs).
  • A simple pork seasoning rub made with a reasonable list of spices you likely already have on hand gives the pork chops a rich smokiness and a little bit of a kick.

Cooked properly, you can make pork chops that are melt-in-your-mouth tasty and (I really can’t emphasize this enough) NOT DRY.

An air fryer pork chop with sauce and peas

5 Star Review

“My husband claims these were the juiciest chops we’ve ever made!”

— Danielle —

How to Cook Pork Chops without Drying Them Out

  • Choose Thick-Cut Chops. Look for the thickest ones you can find, and don’t be shy about asking the butcher counter if needed. For juiciness guaranteed, I recommend pork chops that are at least 1 1/2-inches thick.
  • Go Bone-In. Boneless pork chops are far easier to overcook than ones with the bone in. Cooking air fryer bone-in pork chops gives you more wiggle room. The bone gives the meat extra flavor too (which is why bone-in is also perfect for Stuffed Pork Chops and Smothered Pork Chops).
  • DO NOT OVERCOOK. Unlike a tougher cut of pork like pork shoulder, pork chops are lean (like Stuffed Pork Tenderloin and Grilled Pork Tenderloin) and do not become more tender the longer they cook. Use an instant-read thermometer like this and check the pork early and often. It’s the absolute best way to know when pork chops are done in an air fryer.

Tip!

Per the FDA, pork is considered safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F. I typically remove my pork around the 135-140 degrees F, cover it, then let the carry-over cooking finish the rest.

  • Lest Rest. Resting the meat is MANDATORY. It allows the juices to reincorporate into the meat. If you cut the pork chops right away, all those lovely juices escape onto the plate.
  • Try the Air Fryer! Of all the ways I’ve tried making them, the air fryer is the best way to cook pork chops. Because it circulates air so effectively, the air fryer crisps the outsides beautifully and leaves the inside of the pork chops moist. It’s great for simple proteins (like Air Fryer Steak and Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin).
A plate with air fryer pork chops and peas

How to Cook Air Fryer Pork Chops

In addition to its prowess at making pork chops juicy, the air fryer offers a further benefit: it is FAST.

Air Fryer Pork Chop Cook Times

  • Thick-cut bone-in pork chops cook for 9 to 11 minutes in the air fryer at 375 degrees F. Flip them halfway through.
  • How long to cook bone-in pork chops in the air fryer will vary based on your air fryer model and the exact thickness of your chops. I tested this recipe in this Ninja air fryer with pork chops that were 1 ½ inches thick.
  • Be sure to check the temperature of your pork chops several minutes early, especially if your pork chops are thinner (1-inch pork chops may finish cooking in 7 minutes or less). You can easily return the basket to the air fryer if they need to cook a few additional minutes.

Seasoning Rub for Air Fryer Pork Chops

Now let’s talk FLAVAH! We are going to season these beauties with an easy pork rub.

  • One of my pet peeves is when meat recipes call for you to make an entire batch of a large-scale seasoning blend it will take you a year to work through. That’s why I’ve included just enough of the pork seasoning ingredients to generously coat the two chops called for in this recipe.
  • If you’re serving a larger group or you do want to keep extra on hand in a jar for pork rub on demand (good for you!), you can scale it up to your heart’s content.

I opted to make these simple air fryer pork chops (no breading); if you’d like to see a crispy breaded version from me in the future, be sure to leave a comment below. I am listening!


The Ingredients

  • Bone-In Pork Chops. Thick, bone-in, center-cut pork chops are the perfect choice for this recipe. Pork is a wonderful source of lean protein, vitamins, calcium, and minerals.

Ingredient Swap

If you prefer thick boneless pork chops in the air fryer, you can use them here instead. Just make sure you use thick-cut chops to ensure they don’t overcook and dry out.

  • Smoky Spice Rub. A mixture of chili powder, ground coriander, dry mustard, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper is my secret to the best-tasting, most delicious pork chops. It has a little kick (but not too much), lots of smokiness, and a wonderful depth of flavor.

The Directions

Two pieces of raw meat on a plate
  1. Dry the pork chops, and coat them with oil.
A bowl of seasonings
  1. Stir the spice rub ingredients together.
Two pieces of seasoned meat on a plate
  1. Rub the mixture onto the top, bottom, and side of the pork chops.
Two pork chops in an air fryer
  1. Place the chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you cannot stack pork chops in an air fryer). The temperature you should air fry pork chops at is 375 degrees F. Cook them for 5 minutes, then flip them over.
Two pork chops in an air fryer
  1. Cook for 4 to 7 more minutes. Place the pork chops on a plate, cover them, and let them rest for a few minutes. ENJOY!

TIP!

While the meat rests, make a batch of Air Fryer Cauliflower or Air Fryer Broccoli to serve as crispy, delicious side dishes!

Recipe Variations

  • Air Fryer BBQ Pork Chops. Slather the cooked chops with this homemade Barbecue Sauce or your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce. I recommend warming up the sauce first, then brushing it on liberally once the pork has rested.
  • Air Fryer Pork Chops Parmesan. Add 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the spice mixture. YUM!
  • Air Fryer Ranch Pork Chops. Swap the pork seasoning blend used here with a ranch seasoning mix.
  • Garlic Air Fryer Pork Chops. Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder to the spice mixture.
Tasty air fryer pork chop with peas

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.
  • To Reheat. Gently rewarm the pork in the air fryer or oven at 350 degrees F, in the microwave, or in a skillet on the stove.
  • To Freeze. Freeze leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Leftover Ideas

Leftovers make a delicious addition to so many meals. Try diced-up pork chops with your Homemade Fried Rice, Chicken Nachos, Crock Pot Baked Potatoes (delicious with some barbecue sauce), or Moroccan Couscous.

An air fryer pork chop on a plate with peas

What to Serve with Air Fryer Pork Chops

An easy air fryer pork chop
  • Air Fryer. This is the model I own and love!
  • Mixing Bowls. Ideal for preparing the spice mixture.
  • Instant Read Thermometer. No need to estimate, a meat thermometer is the best way to know when your pork is cooked through. It’s one of my most-loved kitchen purchases.

Crispy. Juicy. BBQ-y.

Air fryer bone-in pork chops, you’ve redeemed this dinner forever more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Are My Air Fryer Pork Chops Tough?

If your air fryer pork chops are tough, it’s likely because they are overcooked. To make sure your pork chops are juicy and tender, remove them at 135 to 140 degrees F and let them rest for 10 minutes.

Are These Pork Chops Spicy?

While these pork chops do have a little kick from the spice rub, they are not overly spicy. If you want your pork chops to be less spicy, you can adjust the seasonings to your tastes.

Can I Use a Different Spice Mixture?

Yes, you can swap the seasonings in this recipe for another spice rub you prefer. I think Cajun air fryer pork chops (using Cajun seasoning) or air fryer pork chops with herbs and Parmesan would be delicious. You could also simply add in some garlic powder or onion powder. (Marinated pork chops in the air fryer would be tasty too.)

How Long Do You Air Fry Thin Pork Chops?

I do not recommend using thin pork chops, as they will dry out quickly. This recipe was designed for thick-cut pork chops, so the times listed will not work well for thin-cut ones. If you decide to experiment with thin air fryer pork chops, start checking several minutes earlier to gauge their progress.

What Temperature Do You Cook Pork Chops In An Air Fryer?

375 degrees F is the perfect temperature for cooking lean cuts like pork chops in the air fryer.

An air fryer pork chop cut into slices
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Air Fryer Pork Chops

This juicy air fryer pork chops recipe is easy, fast and foolproof! Flavored with a simple spice rub, crispy outside and tender inside.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 437kcal

Ingredients

For the Pork Chops:

For the Pork Rub:

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F accordingly to the manufacturer’s instructions (for my air fryer, that’s 3 minutes of preheat time).
  • With paper towels, pat the pork chops dry on both sides. Coat the outsides with olive oil.
    Two pieces of raw meat on a plate
  • In a medium bowl, combine the rub ingredients: chili powder, coriander, mustard, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
    A bowl of seasonings
  • Rub all over both sides of the pork.
    Two pieces of seasoned meat on a plate
  • Lay the pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket; do not overlap them (if they both do not fit in a single layer, cook them in batches). Air fry for 5 minutes, then with tongs, carefully flip the chops.
    Two pork chops in an air fryer
  • Continue cooking for 4 to 7 additional minutes, or until the meat registers 135°F on an instant read thermometer. If your pork chops are boneless, start checking 2 minutes earlier to ensure they do not overcook.
    Two pork chops in an air fryer
  • Remove the pork chops to a plate. Cover and let rest for at least 5 minutes. Serve hot with warmed barbecue sauce as desired.

Video

Notes

  • *You can also use this recipe for boneless center-cut pork chops; still look for thick ones that are at least 1 1/2 inches thick. I do not recommend thin pork chops, as they will dry out ultra quickly. If you decide to experiment with thin chops, start checking several minutes earlier to gauge their progress.
  • As with ovens, air fryer models vary, so your pork chops may take a bit longer or a bit shorter (this is the air fryer model I used to test the recipe). The safest option is to check the meat’s temperature earlier to make sure it doesn’t overcook. As soon the pork chops 135°F at the thickest part of the meat, remove mine for resting.
  • TO STORE: Refrigerate leftover pork chops in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Gently rewarm pork chops in the air fryer or oven at 350°F, in the microwave, or in a skillet on the stove.
  • TO FREEZE: Freeze leftover pork chops in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 2) | Calories: 437kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 51g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 156mg | Potassium: 963mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1793IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 75mg | Iron: 3mg

More Air Fryer Recipes

Thanks to its versatility and ease, you can do so much with an air fryer. Here are some of my favorite air fryer recipes:

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Air Fryer Chicken Thighs https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-chicken-thighs/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-chicken-thighs/#comments Tue, 25 Apr 2023 10:02:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=89428 Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Crispy air fryer chicken thigh on a plateCrispy-skinned, spectacularly juicy, and garlic paprika-rubbed Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a no-effort recipe that earns unanimous praise and augments kitchen swagger. Of the dozens of air fryer recipes I’ve tested, these air fryer chicken thighs earned the highest honor awarded in our household: my husband requested them for dinner every week. In fact, he…

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Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Crispy air fryer chicken thigh on a plate

Crispy-skinned, spectacularly juicy, and garlic paprika-rubbed Air Fryer Chicken Thighs are a no-effort recipe that earns unanimous praise and augments kitchen swagger.

Crispy air fryer chicken thigh on a plate

Of the dozens of air fryer recipes I’ve tested, these air fryer chicken thighs earned the highest honor awarded in our household: my husband requested them for dinner every week.

In fact, he called them the best chicken I’ve ever made!

Between all the ways I cook chicken—Baked Chicken Thighs, Pan-Fried Chicken Breast, and all of these healthy chicken recipes—that’s quite a statement.

I know he means it too, because, while he gets jazzed about other proteins like Air Fryer Salmon or Air Fryer Pork Chops, chicken rarely causes a heart flutter.

(Unless it’s Air Fryer Chicken Wings, but let’s be real—that’s more about the Buffalo sauce.)

Four air fryer chicken thighs on a plate with lemon slices

About This Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

On the diner’s end, these juicy chicken thighs have everything going for them.

  • The meat is juicier than you ever thought chicken could be.
  • The seasoning tastes lightly smoky and complex, an ideal profile for chicken.
  • The skin is so shatteringly crispy, even those who usually don’t eat chicken skin (me), will find themselves nibbling crunchy pieces.

But that’s not the end of the story.

From the cook’s perspective (that’s me and you), this fast and easy dinner is a clear winner.

  • Bone-in chicken thighs cook in 16 to 20 minutes in the air fryer at 400 degrees F.
  • You don’t need to spend time marinating the chicken thighs before air frying.
  • The rub is made from common spices you likely already have in your pantry, like paprika and garlic powder.
The best air fryer chicken thighs on a plate

How to Make Crispy Chicken Thighs in the Air Fryer

For this recipe, you can use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs (I’ve included times for both), but I highly recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken for this recipe.

  • As with this Baked Bone-In Chicken Breast and Air Fryer Whole Chicken, the skin locks in moisture, so you don’t need to spend time brining the meat for excellent results, the way you would with boneless Air Fryer Chicken Breast.
  • The bone flavors the meat from within and makes it harder to overcook the chicken.
  • Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are a bargain compared to boneless.
  • Chicken thighs are healthy! They don’t deserve the bad rap they sometimes get. Prepared the right way (like in the air fryer), they are an excellent, lean source of protein and contain important nutrients like zinc and iron.

The Most Important Tool for Cooking Meat

While using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs gives you better protection from dry meat than if you were to use boneless skinless chicken thighs, you can still overcook chicken thighs. For best results use an instant read thermometer.


The Ingredients

  • Chicken Thighs. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are ideal for the air fryer. The meat stays tender and juicy during cooking, and the skin becomes crackly and crispy.
  • Paprika + Smoked Paprika. The combination of paprika and smoked paprika provides the perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness.
  • Garlic Powder. For a touch of addictive garlicky flavor.
  • Salt + Pepper. Classic, can’t-miss flavor additions.
  • Olive Oil. Helps the spice mixture adhere to the chicken thighs and the skin to crisp. No cooking spray needed.

The Directions

Spices in a bowl
  1. Stir the spice mixture together in a bowl.
Raw meat covered in spices in a bowl
  1. Pat dry the thighs with paper towel, then add them to the bowl. Coat the chicken with oil and the spices.
Raw chicken thighs in an air fryer
  1. Place chicken thighs skin side down in the air fryer basket.
  2. Air fry chicken thighs for 16 to 22 minutes at 400 degrees F, flip halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes. ENJOY! Top with fresh parsley, cilantro, or thyme.

A Note on Chicken Temperature

Per the FDA, chicken thighs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F on an instant read thermometer inserted at the thickest part of the thigh, not touching the bone.

That said, the chicken’s temperature will continue to rise as it rests. Resting meat is necessary for juicy results.

I prefer to pull my chicken thighs out of the air fryer at 155 to 160 degrees F and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the carryover cooking to finish the job. I have never had an issue with undercooked chicken.

An air fryer with chicken thighs inside

More Ways to Season Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Recipe

  • Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Add 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese to your spice mixture. (I’ll have this with Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad, please.)
  • Spicy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the spice mixture.
  • Brown Sugar Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Add 2 teaspoons of brown sugar to the spice mixture. (For a BBQ-like finish, serve the thighs with my scrumptious Barbecue Sauce or any bbq sauce.)
  • Italian Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Add 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning to the spice mixture.
  • Curry Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Add 2 teaspoons curry powder to the spice mixture. (This would be delish with Turmeric Rice.)
  • Garlic Butter Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Omit the smoked paprika, add an extra teaspoon of garlic powder, and swap the olive oil for melted butter. (Perfect for pairing with Garlic Pasta.)
  • Lemon Air Fryer Chicken Thighs. Add zest of 1 lemon to the spice mixture. (Try this with Pasta al Limone or Lemon Rice. YUM!)

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Refrigerate chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. 
  • To Reheat. Gently rewarm leftovers in a baking dish in the oven at 350 degrees F or in the air fryer.
  • To Freeze. Freeze thighs in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. 

Meal Prep Tip

Up to 1 day in advance, coat the chicken thighs in the oil and spice mixture. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.

Easy air fryer chicken thighs on a plate

What to Serve with Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Air Fry Chicken Thighs that are Frozen?

Yes! Unlike Crockpot Shredded Chicken, it is OK to put frozen chicken in an air fryer. I would only suggest this with boneless skinless thighs, as the bone-in would be difficult to cook through. Air fry frozen chicken thighs at 360 degrees F for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, then check for doneness.

What Can I Do with Leftover Chicken Thighs?

Leftover air fryer chicken thighs can be shredded or diced to make sandwiches (like this Shredded Chicken Sandwich), quesadillas, or additions to pastas (Sun Dried Tomato Pasta) or salads (Arugula Salad).

Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs?

While I love using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe, you can use boneless thighs instead. See the recipe notes for tips.

Should I Marinade Chicken Thighs?

Using a rub or marinade is an excellent way to flavor chicken. For a rub, use the seasoning mixture below, or you can try my favorite Chicken Marinade or Chicken Thigh Marinade.

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs Video

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Crispy air fryer chicken thigh on a plate
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Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Super juicy air fryer chicken thighs with shatteringly crispy skin and a simple, delicious paprika garlic spice rub. Cooks in 20 minutes!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 389kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine the paprika, smoked paprika, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
    Spices in a bowl
  • Pat the chicken thighs very dry on both sides, then add to the bowl. Drizzle with the oil, then toss to coat in the spice mixture.
    Raw meat covered in spices in a bowl
  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Add the chicken thighs in a single layer, skin-side down (make sure they are not touching; if they are, cook the chicken in batches).
    Raw chicken thighs in an air fryer
  • Air fry the chicken thighs for 16 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until an instant read thermometer inserted at the thickest part of a thigh (but not touching bone) reaches 155°F. Set aside, cover, and let rest for 5 minutes (chicken is considered by the FDA cooked at 165°F, but the temperature will continue to rise as it rests; air fryer models differ in cooking time, so check early to be safe). Serve hot, with lemon wedges (squeeze them over the top of your serving) and sprinkled with fresh herbs.

Video

Notes

  • FOR BONELESS THIGHS: Coat with the spice mixture as directed. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F, then add the chicken smooth-side down. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches 155°F on an instant read thermometer. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes (the temperature will continue to rise), then enjoy warm.
  • TO STORE: Refrigerate chicken in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days. 
  • TO REHEAT: Gently rewarm leftovers in a baking dish in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave. 
  • TO FREEZE: Freeze thighs in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 4) | Calories: 389kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 142mg | Potassium: 369mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1407IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 2mg

More Chicken Thigh Recipes

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Crispy Air Fryer Green Beans https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-green-beans/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-green-beans/#comments Wed, 12 Apr 2023 10:01:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=117671 Air Fryer Green Beans

a bowl of the best easy air fryer green beansGreen beans will be your new favorite veggie to cook in the air fryer! Crispy outside with an irresistible Parmesean topping, they cook in just 10 minutes!

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Air Fryer Green Beans a bowl of the best easy air fryer green beans

“Eat your vegetables,” is a wish not a command when that veggie is Air Fryer Green Beans! Crispy outside and tender within, they make that requisite green on your plate a whole lot more delicious…even fun!

a bowl of the best easy air fryer green beans

Thanks to its compact, high-heat convection cooking, the air fryer has a unique ability to make foods temptingly crispy, with very little oil.

We often think of the air fryer as a means to create healthy alternatives to deep-fried favorites (like Air Fryer French Fries), but it’s equally as good at making classic vegetables enticing.

From lightly charred Air Fryer Broccoli to deeply caramelized Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, if there’s a vegetable you love roasted in the oven, you’ll go crazy for it in the air fryer!

quick and easy air fryer green beans

About Air Fryer Green Beans

Roasted Green Beans are one of my favorite, slightly unexpected vegetables to make, so I anticipated they’d be wonderful in the air fryer…I was right!

This air fryer recipe takes roasted green beans up a notch, cooking them more quickly (air fryer green beans cook in 10 minutes!) and resulting in an even crispier exterior.

The way you can pick up the crispy beans and pop them into your mouth reminds me of Homemade French Fries in the most delightful way.

Enjoy them as a fast weeknight side alongside Baked Chicken Breast or Grilled Salmon, doll them up with Parmesan and a few lemon wedges for an elegant dinner, or add a pinch (or a few!) of chili flakes if you like your air fryer green beans spicy.

air fryer green beans with garlic

How to Make Air Fryer Green Beans

This easy air fryer green beans recipe works for both French green beans (haricots verts) and regular green beans, which are a bit thicker and shorter.

Trim off the ends of your green beans (or snap them if they are fresh from the garden), toss with a little salt, pepper, and olive oil (or your seasonings of choice), and in 10 minutes, your fresh, healthy, oh-so-crispy air fried green beans are ready to serve.


The Ingredients

  • Green Beans. Packed with fiber, vitamin C, and even protein, these air fryer green beans are equally as nutritious as they are delicious.

Market Swap

Regular green beans and haricot verts both work well for this recipe.

  • Olive Oil. Adds flavor to the green beans, helps them crisp up, and keeps them from burning.
  • Spices. Keep things simple with salt and pepper, spice things up with red pepper flakes, and/or add garlicky goodness with garlic powder.
  • Parmesan. Because cheese makes everything better! Adding Parmesan is optional, but I highly recommend it.
  • Lemon. Another optional serving addition. We love finishing our beans with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

The Directions

  1. Rinse, dry, and trim the beans.
seasoning green beans for air fryer green beans
  1. Toss the beans with the oil and spices.
seasoned air fryer green beans in air fryer
  1. Add half of the beans to your air fryer basket.
easy air fryer green beans in air fryer basket
  1. Air fry green beans for 8 to 10 minutes at 375 degrees F, tossing halfway through. Repeat with the remaining beans. Serve with Parmesan and lemon wedges (if desired). DIG IN!

Dietary Note

To make these air fryer green beans dairy free (and vegan), simply skip adding the optional Parmesan.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Green Beans

  • Use Fresh Green Beans. These will have the most “snap” and give you satisfying, crisp green beans. That said, you can air fry frozen green beans—no need to thaw them first.
  • Air Fry in a Single Layer. While you can have some overlap, you don’t want a thick layer or the green beans will not crisp. For 1 pound of green beans, plan on 2 batches. You can keep them warm in the oven in between.
  • Serve Immediately. Air fryer green beans soften as they sit. For the ultimate crispy experience, enjoy right after the cook time has ended. You also can recrisp them in your air fryer or oven.

Seasoning Suggestions

  • Parmesan. Parmesan tastes delicious on air fryer green beans! Prepare the recipe as written.
  • Spicy. For spicy air fryer green beans, add the red pepper flakes listed in this recipe. You could even sneak in an extra pinch if you enjoy more heat.
  • Asian. For an Asian spin, add 2 teaspoons of low sodium soy sauce and use the optional garlic powder. Skip the Parmesan and lemon. Add sesame seeds just before serving.
  • Garlic Butter. The ultimate crowd-pleaser! Swap the olive oil in this recipe for melted butter. Use the optional garlic powder, Parmesan, and lemon.

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Keep cooked green beans in the fridge in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days. 
  • To Reheat. Rewarm leftovers in the air fryer at 350 degrees F for about 5 minutes, tossing once halfway through. You can also rewarm beans in the microwave. 
  • To Freeze. Freeze leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. 

Meal Prep Tip

Rinse, dry, and trim the green beans up to 1 day in advance. Refrigerate them in an airtight container until you’re ready to finish the recipe.

a bowl of garlic and parmesan air fryer green beans

Leftover Ideas

Chop the green beans into bite-sized pieces and add them to a pasta salad (like this Chicken Pasta Salad) or egg bake (like Vegetarian Breakfast Casserole). Use them in a Nicoise Salad, in place of the blanched green beans.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Green Beans

  • Air Fryer. Essential for making air-fried green beans.
  • Mixing Bowls. This set of mixing bowls is great for recipe prep and serving.
  • Measuring Spoons. These magnetic measuring spoons have been one of my best kitchen purchases.

Snappy, savory, and even snackable, air fryer green beans are an ideal addition to your side dish lineup.

Start ‘em now, and they’ll be ready in a snap!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Air Fryer Green Beans from Frozen?

Absolutely! Whether you want easy access to air fryer green beans for a healthy snack or side dish, using frozen green beans is a great option. Do not thaw green beans before air frying. Prepare the recipe as directed, mixing the beans with the oil and seasonings. Add them to your preheated air fryer as directed, but cook them for 2 to 3 extra minutes.

Why Are My Fresh Green Beans Tough After Cooking?

If your fresh green beans are tough after cooking, they likely aren’t done yet. You know when green beans are finished cooking by both their appearance and crispness. You soften green beans by cooking them, so they should be cooked until they have some dark spots and are crisp-tender. You want them to maintain some bite and not be mushy.

Are Haricot Verts and Green Beans the Same Thing?

Haricot verts (French green beans) and regular green beans are very similar, but they are not the exact same thing. Green beans are shorter, thicker, and typically less tender than haricot verts. You can use either variety for this recipe.

a bowl of the best easy air fryer green beans
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Air Fryer Green Beans

How to make quick and easy green beans in the air fryer. In just 20 minutes, have the best crispy air fryer green beans topped with Parmesan.
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 70kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh green beans or haricots verts
  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder optional
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper or red pepper flakes
  • 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese optional for serving
  • Lemon wedges optional for serving

Instructions

  • Rinse the green beans and pat VERY dry. Trim off the ends and halve any longer beans so that all of the pieces are roughly the same length.
  • Place the green beans in a large mixing bowl. Top with the oil, salt, garlic powder (if using), and black pepper. Toss to thoroughly and evenly coat the beans with the oil and seasonings.
    seasoning green beans for air fryer green beans
  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Add half of the green beans in a single layer (it’s OK if they touch, but you don’t want the layer to be thick; for most air fryers, two batches will do it.)
    seasoned air fryer green beans in air fryer
  • Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the green beans are crisp-tender and dark in spots (if you like your green beans with more bite, cook on the shorter end of the time; for more char but a slightly softer bean, cook them for the full 10 minutes). If desired, transfer to a sheet pan and place in a 200℉ oven to keep them warm while you cook the second batch. Repeat with the remaining green beans.
    easy air fryer green beans in air fryer basket
  • Transfer to a serving plate. Sprinkle generously with the Parmesan. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges squeezed over the top as desired.

Video

Notes

  • TO STORE: Refrigerate green beans in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days. 
  • TO REHEAT: Rewarm leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes, tossing once halfway through. You can also rewarm beans in the microwave. 
  • TO FREEZE: Freeze leftovers in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1 (of 4) | Calories: 70kcal | Carbohydrates: 9g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Potassium: 251mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 815IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 76mg | Iron: 1mg

More Delicious Air Fryer Sides

From zucchini coated with panko breadcrumbs to crispy cauliflower, there’s a delicious air fryer vegetable recipe for every meal!

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Everyone Loves Crispy Potatoes https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-potato-wedges/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-potato-wedges/#comments Thu, 02 Mar 2023 11:02:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=112987 Air Fryer Potato Wedges

quick air fryer potato wedges on a plateThe air fryer is the perfect instrument for making potato wedges. They get super crispy (without frying!). This recipe is all the how-tos you need.

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Air Fryer Potato Wedges quick air fryer potato wedges on a plate

Give me big, beautiful hunks of Air Fryer Potato Wedges! Made quickly and without oil, these potato wedges are golden and crisp on the outside and fluffy mashed-potato-like on the inside.

quick air fryer potato wedges on a plate

This is the restaurant-style version of a crispy potato wedge, but turned healthy thanks to the air fryer.

These homemade potato wedges are seasoned to salty, smoky perfection, served piping hot, and ready to devour as a side dish, appetizer, or snack.

The air fryer has been a delicious experiment, and I’m excited to have perfected several potato-related items now.

The results are unstoppably good (without the icky greasy feeling after):

crispy potato wedges in an air fryer basket

Quick Air Fryer Potato Wedges Tips

Here we go; let’s dive into the perfect method for making air fryer potato wedges and my top tips.

  • Make them Appeeling. Go ahead and leave the peels on! It gives a nice, rustic texture and flavor (plus adds fiber, vitamin C, B vitamins, and iron). If you hate peels, no worries; go ahead and peel if you prefer.
  • Boiling Not Necessary. You do not boil air fryer potato wedges first.
  • Rinse and Soak Potatoes Before Air Frying. Sliced potato wedges need to be rinsed AND soaked prior to air frying. Skipping the rinsing or soaking steps will not make them as crisp, and we are all about the crisp when it comes to fries and potato wedges!
  1. Rinse step: Potatoes will be swished in a bowl of cold water, drained, and then repeated once or twice more until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch so they can crisp.
  2. Soak step: After rinsing, you’ll pour very hot water over the potatoes and let them sit for 10 minutes. This softens the potatoes enough to cook them evenly, no par-boil needed.
  • Dry ‘Em Well. After soaking, pat the potatoes very dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
  • Air Fry Potato Wedges at TWO Different Temps. My secret to getting potato wedges as crispy as possible is to first air fry them at 350 degrees for 15 minutes in order to fully cook the inside without the outside burning, and then air fry at 400 degrees F for 15 minutes more to completely crisp.
  • Toss Toss Toss. To get every square millimeter of each potato perfectly crisp, as well as prevent any from burning, toss your potatoes in the air fryer periodically, especially toward the end.
at home easy potato wedges on a plate with dipping sauce

How to Make Air Fryer Potato Wedges

No deep frying to fiddle with for restaurant-worthy potato wedges. The air fryer makes it easy, and the ingredient list is short.


The Ingredients

  • Potatoes. Russet potatoes are best for air fryer potato wedges because their higher starch content makes for extra-fluffy interiors. They crisp up beautifully. Yukon gold potatoes would be denser.

Tip!

Potatoes that are 5-inches or less in length work best. Longer potato wedge slices tend to break apart when tossed in the air fryer.

  • Olive Oil. Just 2 tablespoons of EVOO. You could even make the air fryer potatoes wedges without any oil, but they just won’t be as crispy and satisfying.
  • Seasoning. Potatoes are all about the seasoning! I used a mix of salt, garlic powder, and chili powder (optional, for a little spice).

The Directions

cutting potatoes into wedges on cutting board
  1. Scrub the potatoes and cut into wedges.

How to Cut Potatoes into Wedges

First cut each in half lengthwise on a non-slip cutting board, and then cut in half again to make potato quarters.

Lay each potato quarter cut side down, and then cut lengthwise again (with cuts about 1/2 inch apart). You’ll likely be cutting each quarter into thirds, giving you 12 wedges per potato.

soaking potato wedges for air fryer
  1. Rinse potatoes. Soak in hot water.
seasoning easy air fryer potato wedges
  1. Pat very dry. Toss with seasonings.
potato wedges made in the air fryer
  1. Air fry potato wedges at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes.
tossing potato wedges in the air fryer for perfect crispy wedges
  1. Toss, then continue to air fry for 5 minutes more.
the perfect easy air fryer potato wedges
  1. Toss potatoes again, and then increase air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F and cook for about 15 minutes more, tossing potatoes every 5 minutes. Transfer crispy potato wedges to serving plate, sprinkle with salt, and ENJOY!

Dietary Note

Air fryer potato wedges satisfy just about any diet (well except no carbohydrates, sorry!), so they are a great side to share! Vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy free.

Seasoning Variations

I will honestly never tire of just plain, plenty-salty potato wedges dunked in Barbecue Sauce (or other tantalizing sauces like Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip or Vegan Queso or ketchup for something classic), but feel free to get creative!

  • Cajun. Sprinkle with a Cajun seasoning blend for a different spicy flavor; reduce the salt, as Cajun seasoning usually includes it.
  • Taco. Chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, pepper, and oregano, or your taco seasoning mix of choice.
  • Season Salt. Such as Lawry’s. This is a particularly addictive version. No need to add additional salt, as there is already salt in this seasoning mix.
  • Truffle. For fancy pants version, use truffle salt and add freshly-grated Parmesan cheese, then garnish with fresh parsley.
  • Ranch. Onion powder, garlic powder, and dried dill are a winning combo.
perfectly crispy potato wedges in an air fryer

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Place leftover air fryer potato wedges in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To Reheat. Reheat leftover potato wedges in the air fryer at 375 degrees F and recrisp for a few minutes.
  • To Freeze. Freeze potato wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer the frozen fries to an airtight, freezer-safe storage container or ziptop bag for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.

Meal Prep Tip

Chop your potatoes 1 day prior to air frying and store in airtight container in the refrigerator. They will brown a bit, but that’s ok.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe

  • Air Fryer. The must-have for all the air fryer recipes.
  • Mixing Bowls. Perfect for soaking your potatoes and tossing them with the spices. I love how they stack to store, and there’s a size for every kitchen need.
  • French Fry Serving Basket. How fun is this? Serve all your air fryer fries, chips, and potatoes in this wire basket with included dipping dish, and then you’ll really feel like you’re in a restaurant.

My Air Fryer

I like this air fryer in particular because it heats up fast and has higher capacity than a standard air fryer.

dipping crispy air fryer potato wedges into sauce

Welcome to your new favorite side!

I can’t wait to hear about your delicious results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Air Fryer Potato Wedges with Sweet Potatoes?

Absolutely; they are fabulous! You can see this Sweet Potato Wedges oven version for seasoning ideas.

Why are My Potato Wedges Not Crispy?

To ensure a crispy air fryer potato wedge, rinse and soak your potatoes prior to air frying, preheat the air fryer to ensure it’s piping hot, and work in batches to not overcrowd if necessary (it’s ok if they overlap a bit).

Do You Pierce Potatoes Before Air Frying?

If you are making an entire potato in the air fryer, you would want to prick holes in it first to prevent the unlikely occurrence of the potato exploding in the air fryer due to built up steam. Potato wedges do NOT need to be pricked before air frying.

Can I Make Air Fryer Potato Wedges from Frozen?

For a shortcut, you could prep and then freeze potato wedges, or use store-bought, pre-cut frozen potato wedges. You can make frozen air fryer potato wedges; you will skip the soaking and rinsing step, and the cook time will need to be increased by a few minutes.

quick air fryer potato wedges on a plate
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Air Fryer Potato Wedges

How to cook potato wedges perfectly in the air fryer. Crispy outside, fluffy inside, and seasoned just right. Healthy and restaurant quality!
Course Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 (about 36 wedges total)
Calories 188kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Scrub the potatoes (leave the peels on). Cut each in half lengthwise, then cut lengthwise again to make quarters. Cut each quarter such that you end up with 1/2-inch wedges (likely you’ll be cutting each quarter into thirds depending upon your potato). You will have about 12 or so wedges per potato.
    cutting potatoes into wedges on cutting board
  • Place the wedges in a large bowl. Fill the bowl with cool water, swish the potatoes around, then pour off the water. Repeat once or twice more, until the water runs clear (this removes the starch from the potatoes and helps them crisp). Once you’ve rinsed the potatoes, pour very hot tap water over the top so that it covers the potatoes by at least 1 inch. Let sit 10 minutes. Do not skip rinsing or soaking or the fries will not be as crisp.
    soaking potato wedges for air fryer
  • Spread the potato wedges onto a clean towel and pat very dry. Dry out the bowl you used to rinse them, then return the potatoes to the bowl. Top the potatoes with the oil, salt, garlic powder, and chili powder and toss to coat.
    seasoning easy air fryer potato wedges
  • Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F. Add all of the potato wedges to the air fryer basket (it’s OK if that they’re overlapping; that’s the beauty of this method).
    potato wedges made in the air fryer
  • Air fry the potato wedges for 10 minutes, then use tongs to gently but thoroughly toss and redistribute them. Continue to air fry at 350 degrees F for 5 minutes more.
    tossing potato wedges in the air fryer for perfect crispy wedges
  • Gently toss and turn the potatoes once more, then increase the air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F. Continue air frying until the potato wedges are crisp, about 15 minutes more, tossing the potatoes every 5 minutes and checking them fairly often towards the end to ensure then do not burn.
    the perfect easy air fryer potato wedges
  • Transfer the wedges to a serving plate and sprinkle lightly with additional salt. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

*If possible, use potatoes that are 5-inches or less in length; longer ones still work, but they tend to break when tossed in the air fryer.
  • TO STORE: Place leftover air fryer potato wedges in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Reheat leftover potato wedges in the air fryer at 375 degrees F and recrisp for a few minutes.
  • TO FREEZE: Freeze potato wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer the frozen fries to an airtight, freezer-safe storage container or ziptop bag for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(approx. 9 wedges) | Calories: 188kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Potassium: 666mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 21mg | Iron: 1mg

More Air Fryer Sides & Apps

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A Healthy Burger Comin' In Hot https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-hamburgers/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-hamburgers/#comments Mon, 13 Feb 2023 11:02:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=111803 Air Fryer Hamburgers

Air Fryer Hamburger with Cheese and Toppings on a BunHamburgers are an easy meal for the air fryer, which delivers a juicy burger FAST with less mess. Using a leaner beef and the air fryer, a burger can be healthy!

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Air Fryer Hamburgers Air Fryer Hamburger with Cheese and Toppings on a Bun

You can have a fresh-off-the-grill burger taste without the grill thanks to this recipe for juicy Air Fryer Hamburgers.

Air Fryer Hamburger with Cheese and Toppings on a Bun

No need to stand outside flipping patties when it’s raining, snowing, or too hot to handle.

A grill-style burger can be yours FAST and from the comfort of your kitchen, thanks to the handy dandy air fryer.

This post has everything you need to know to cook a mouthwatering, bistro-worthy burger, including the just-right burger air frying temperature and tips to keep your patties nice and juicy.

air fried hamburger with cheese on a plate

Air Fry for the Best Burgers and Fries

Speaking of air fryer, do you have one yet? I know, too many kitchen contraptions. 

I gave into the air fryer thing a couple years ago. Now I see what all the fuss is about and have fully embraced it!

An air fryer hamburger with a side of Air Fryer French Fries makes the best use of all the air fryer’s advantages.

  • You can healthier versions of comfort and fast-food favorites.
  • The air fryer cooks food fast, and there’s little to no preheat time.
  • Clean up is easy. You won’t miss the grease!
  • SO CRISPY. The air fryer’s intense heat allows you to create “fried” tasting foods (like Air Fryer Onion Rings), without deep frying and with very little oil.
  • Juicy Proteins. The air fryer does a fantastic job getting proteins like Air Fryer Steak, Air Fry Salmon, and hamburger patties crisp on the outside while keeping them moist and juicy on the inside.
  • Stellar Sides. You can have crispy, hot vegetables that taste deep fried but aren’t.

For a classic diner experience at home, make a big batch of French fries (or Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries), then keep them warm in the oven while you whip up a batch of air fryer hamburgers.

Air Fryer Hamburger on a Bun on a plate

How to Make Air Fryer Hamburgers

Meet the BEST air fryer hamburgers recipe!They are easy, much healthier than your standard burger, and flavorful.

The secret is in the seasoning, and I’m going to show you exactly how to do it right to deliver a juicy, full-flavor burger that you’d never guess was done sans grill.

Use this recipe as a starting point, then have fun playing around with cooking other burgers in your air fryer basket, like this Blue Cheese Burger.


The Ingredients

  • Beef. I use 90% lean ground beef. This is a leaner cut of beef than what is typically used for hamburgers, keeping this meal healthier, lower fat/less cholesterol.

tip!

For more great ground beef recipes, check out Ground Beef Dinner Ideas.

Market Swap

You can alter the recipe for air fryer chicken burgers or turkey burgers using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef (or even sausage like these juicy Italian Turkey Burgers). Check internal temperature for desired doneness, as cooking times will vary.

  • Olive Oil. One of the great things about the air fryer is its ability to lighten up traditionally heavy foods because you can use less oil, butter, and other fats. My recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. This helps keep the burger patties moist since we are using a leaner ground beef.
  • Dijon Mustard. This one is optional, but it adds an extra ka-pow flavor.
  • Seasonings. I use the classic combo of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Simple and perfect.
  • Buns. You can enjoy the burger on its own or in a lettuce wrap if you’re gluten free or going for less carbohydrates, or use your favorite style of bun. Brioche makes the burger more decadent (and might I add, delicious) than your regular store white-bread buns. Pretzel buns are also flavorful and divine.

Tip!

Toast the buns before serving. Spread a little butter on the sliced bread and place in the oven or toaster oven on broil for a couple minutes. Watch like a hawk to prevent burning.

The Directions

Mixing ingredients for air frying hamburger
  1. Place beef, oil, mustard, and seasonings in a large bowl.
mixing beef for air fryer hamburgers
  1. Gently stir with a fork to combine.
making patties for air fryer hamburgers
  1. Shape into patties, adding a dimple.
air frying hamburgers
  1. Air fry burgers at 375 degrees F for 8 to 10 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 155 degrees F, flipping them at the 6-minute mark.
finished hamburgers in the air fryer
  1. Check the temperature shortly after flipping to make sure they don’t overcook.
air fryer hamburgers with cheese
  1. Add cheese in last minute of cooking. Serve hot on buns with your favorite toppings. ENJOY!

Tip!

If adding a slice of cheese, do so during the last minute of cooking so it gets nice and melty. Or, use shredded cheese, which melts even more easily.

Air Fryer Hamburger Topping Ideas

Air Fryer Hamburger with toppings on a plate

Tips for Air Frying Hamburgers

  • Burgers should be cooked in the air fryer at 375 degrees F.
  • Don’t crowd! Cook in batches if needed so there is some space around each patty, and cook them in a single layer.
  • Check for doneness early. Flip burgers after 6 minutes of air frying on the first side, and then cook for just a few minutes more.
  • Use a meat thermometer. Medium Well = 150 to 155. Well Done = 160 to 165. Let your burger cook according to the internal temp more so than the clock.

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Store leftover burger patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  • To Reheat. Warm patties in a skillet, covered, with a bit of water to keep them from drying out.
  • To Freeze. Cooked burger patties can be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator prior to reheating.

Storage Tips

You can air fry frozen, uncooked burger patties. Burger patties can be prepped, shaped and then frozen, then air-fried for on-demand, easy dinners. Store frozen burger patty with pieces of parchment paper between.

Meal Prep Tip

Prepare and shape patties up to a day in advance. Wrap in plastic, and then pull out of the refrigerator just before air frying.

Leftover Ideas

Leftover air fryer hamburger patties are an easy protein to reinvent into a new meal. 

What to Serve with Air Fryer Hamburgers

  • Air Fryer. This is the one I own and love!
  • Instant Read Thermometer. The best way to tell when your hamburgers are done and prevent overcooking.
  • Spatula. This spatula is great because it is thin and flexible, making it easy to get under the patties without disturbing them.

Instant-Read Meat Thermometer

I insist you get a meat thermometer if you do not have one already. It’s the best way to tell if your meat is done, keeping you both from eating potentially unsafe, undercooked meat or meat that is overdone (both would be tragic).

air fried cheesburger with a bite taken out of it

No trip through the drive through OR to the grill needed when you have air fryer hamburgers! Ja-ja-ja-JUICY.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Need to Flip Burgers in the Air Fryer?

Yes! Air fryer burgers need to be cooked on each side in the air fryer. You’ll cook them longer on the first side than the second side.

How Can I Make a More Tender Burger?

When mixing the patty meat, be careful to not overly mix or overly handle the meat and do not compact it too tightly, or it will taste tough. Also, check early for doneness to prevent overcooking.

How to Air Fry Hamburgers to Well Done?

A well done burger is considered cooked between 160 and 165 degrees F (we prefer medium, which is around 150 to 155 degrees F). If you prefer a well-done burger or medium-well, add a few additional minutes to the called-for cooking time.

Air Fryer Hamburger with Cheese and Toppings on a Bun
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Air Fryer Hamburgers

Air fryer hamburgers are faster and less mess than the grill! How to cook the perfect, juicy burger in the air fryer, at the just-right temperature.
Course Dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 burgers
Calories 234kcal

Ingredients

For Serving

  • 4 hamburger buns we like brioche or pretzel buns, split, toasted if desired
  • Toppings of choice: lettuce, sliced tomato, avocado, Barbecue Sauce, ketchup, etc.

Instructions

  • Place the beef in a large mixing bowl. Add the oil, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    Mixing ingredients for air frying hamburger
  • With a fork, gently stir to combine, being careful not to compact the meat (handle it as little as possible for the most tender burgers). Gently shape it into 4 equal patties that are 1/2-inch thick. With your thumb, gently press an indentation in the center.
    making patties for air fryer hamburgers
  • Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F. Place the patties in the basket, leaving some space around each (cook in batches if needed). Air fry the burgers for 6 minutes, then flip and continue cooking until the internal temperature of the burger reaches 155 degrees F, about 2 to 4 minutes more. DO NOT overcook, or the burgers will be dry. If you’ll be adding cheese, do so during the last minute of cooking. Serve hot on buns with your favorite toppings.
    finished hamburgers in the air fryer

Video

Notes

  • TO STORE: Store leftover burger patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  • TO REHEAT: Warm patties in a skillet, covered, with a bit of water to keep them from drying out.
  • TO FREEZE: Cooked burger patties can be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator prior to reheating.

Nutrition

Serving: 1burger (patty only) | Calories: 234kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 74mg | Sodium: 393mg | Potassium: 376mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.05g | Vitamin A: 3IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 17mg | Iron: 3mg

Reader-Favorite Air Fryer Recipes

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Hot Potato! The Only Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe You'll Ever Need https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-baked-potato/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-baked-potato/#comments Thu, 19 Jan 2023 11:02:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=84962 Air Fryer Baked Potato

An air fryer baked potato with butter and baconThe best, easy method for air fryer baked potatoes. The perfect side dish or load with toppings for a hearty main dish.

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Air Fryer Baked Potato An air fryer baked potato with butter and bacon

Of all the ways to describe a simple baked potato, I never thought I’d use the word “transcendent” here we are: Air Fryer Baked Potato. Shatteringly crisp on the outside and fabulously fluffy inside, the air fryer is hands down the best way to cook a potato. It bakes in half the time, you don’t need to wait for the oven to preheat, and the results are potato perfection!

A crispy air fryer baked potato with bacon

Sometimes a Baked Potato is more about toppings (ahem, Air Fryer Bacon) than the potato itself.

Not so when you make baked potatoes in the air fryer!

  • The skin becomes devastatingly dark, shiny, and crisp, with very little oil.
  • The inside steams into a downy pillow, primed for fluffing.
  • The potatoes cook faster than in a traditional oven, and the air fryer won’t heat up your kitchen.

While potato finger food is fun (especially Air Fryer French Fries and Air Fryer Potato Wedges), there’s something about a classic baked potato every now and then that hits the spot.

I was so pleased with the air fryer potato’s texture, I was happy to keep the potato toppings light—though, of course, you can take a note from this loaded Crockpot Potato Soup and gussy ‘em up as you wish.

Enjoy these air fried baked potatoes as a side to just about any protein, or top them off with Turkey Chili or Vegetarian Chili to turn them into a main event!

An air fryer baked potato with butter on a plate

5 Star Review

“These potatoes were fabulous! [Compared to cooking in the oven] they are so much better!”

— Stacy —

How to Make Air Fryer Baked Potato Recipe

Only a little oil and a pinch of salt are needed to create a slam-dunk baked potato that’s fit to serve alongside your favorite Air Fryer Steak recipe.

Enjoy them with simple toppings (some butter and salt and pepper are perfect), or go all-out with chives, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and cooked bacon.

A fork cutting into an air fryer baked potato

AIr Fryer Baked Potato Cooking Times

How long to cook a baked potato in the air fryer will vary based on your air fryer model and the size of the potato.

  • Small to Medium Potato (8 to 12 ounces): Air fry for 35 to 45 minutes.
  • Large Potato (12 ounces or more): Air fry for 45 to 55 minutes.

I tested this recipe as Ninja air fryer baked potatoes (this is my air fryer model).

Depending on your model, you may need to adjust the cooking time.

When in doubt, check early. You can always cook for longer, but an overcooked potato can’t be undone.


The Ingredients

  • Russet Potato. Fluffy, starchy, and beloved. Potatoes get a bad wrap in the nutrition department, but that’s often due to the cooking method (ahem, fried potatoes) or among diets that prefer to avoid carbohydrates. However, potatoes are actually packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Firing up the grill? You’ll love Grilled Potatoes.

Substitution Tip

This method works well for russet potatoes, Idaho potatoes, and Yukon gold potatoes.

I do not recommend using it for baby potatoes, red potatoes, or new potatoes, as they will cook too quickly. Save those for Roasted Potatoes and Carrots.

  • Olive Oil. Rubbing olive oil onto the outside of the potato helps the skin crisp up.
  • Salt. Adds texture and flavor to the potato skin.

Topping Suggestions!

While I chose to go light on the toppings, you can add anything. Suggestions for some favorite toppings are bacon bits, green onion, garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, or even Instant Pot Chili! You could also add a healthy vegetable like Roasted Broccoli or Sautéed Mushrooms.

The Directions

Two vegetables on a cutting board
  1. Scrub and dry the potatoes, then coat them with oil and salt. Prick holes all over with a fork. Place in air fryer basket.
Two potatoes in an air fryer
  1. Air fry baked potatoes in a single layer for 25 minutes at 400 degrees F. Flip the potatoes.
Two potatoes in an air fryer
  1. Air fry for 10 to 25 additional minutes until fork tender. Transfer to a plate.
Two air fryer potatoes on a plate
  1. Cut and open the potatoes, add toppings, and DIG IN!

Ways to Use an Air Fryer Baked Potato

Aside from the obvious (serving it as a side dish), there are countless ways to enjoy air fryer baked potatoes. Here are a few of my favorite ideas:

An air fryer baked potato with butter and bacon

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Refrigerate leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • To Reheat. Rewarm leftovers in a baking dish in the oven at 350 degrees F or in the microwave.
  • To Freeze. Freeze air fryer potatoes in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Meal Prep Tip

Up to 1 day in advance, scrub and dry the potatoes.

What to Serve with an Air Fryer Baked Potato

  • Air Fryer. Perfect for making air fryer baked potatoes.
  • Tongs. My choice for flipping the potatoes.
  • Measuring Spoons. These double-sided spoons are so nice.

Steakhouse baked potato, schmeakhouse.

We’ve got the best baked potato recipe right here!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need to Wrap my Air Fryer Baked Potato in Foil?

No. Unlike Crockpot Baked Potatoes, wrapping the potatoes in foil in the air fryer isn’t needed.

Do I Need to Poke Holes in My Potatoes Before Air Frying?

Yes. While the risk of a potato exploding in the air fryer is very low, it doesn’t hurt to poke holes in it prior to air frying. This will allow the steam to escape.

Can I Turn These into Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes?

Yes, I think these would be delicious air fryer twice baked potatoes. Once you’ve finished the recipe as directed, scoop out the insides and mix with butter, milk (or heavy cream), salt, and pepper. Divide the whipped potatoes between the skins. Air fry for about 4 minutes, then add cheese and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more. (Be sure to check out my Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes too.)

What Types of Oil Can be Used in an Air Fryer?

Many types of oils can be used in an air fryer for baked potatoes. Olive oil is my go-to for this recipe (and air fryer recipes at 400 degrees or less). Otherwise, oils with a high smoke point, such as canola oil, avocado oil, grapeseed oil, and even cooking spray, are ideal.

An air fryer baked potato with butter and bacon
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Air Fryer Baked Potato

Crispy outside and fluffy inside, an air fryer baked potato is the BEST way to bake potatoes. Faster and easier than the oven and  perfect inside!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 3 servings
Calories 256kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 large or 4 small russet potatoes as many as will fit in your air fryer in a single layer
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • Toppings of choice: butter, nonfat plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream), chopped fresh chives, cooked and crumbled bacon*

Instructions

  • Scrub and dry the potatoes. Rub evenly with the oil and sprinkle with salt. Pierce all over with a fork.
    Two vegetables on a cutting board
  • Turn the air fryer to 400 degrees F. Add the potatoes in a single layer (do not let them touch or the skins will not crisp). Air fry the potatoes for 25 minutes. With tongs, carefully flip the potatoes over.
    Two vegetables in an air fryer
  • Return the potatoes to the air fryer. Continue air frying for 10 to 25 minutes more, until the potatoes pierce easily with a fork (the total time will vary based upon the size of your potatoes). Remove to a plate.
    Two potatoes in an air fryer
  • Once cool enough to handle, use a sharp knife to slit the potatoes lengthwise down the center and gently squeeze the sides to open. Add toppings of choice. Serve hot.
    Two air fryer potatoes on a plate

Video

Notes

  • *Use my easy recipes for Air Fryer Bacon or Oven Baked Bacon
  • TO STORE: Refrigerate baked potatoes in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Rewarm leftovers in a baking dish in the oven at 350 degrees F or in the microwave.
  • TO FREEZE: Freeze potatoes in an airtight freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 3) | Calories: 256kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Potassium: 1026mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 32mg | Iron: 2mg

More Easy Air Fryer Vegetables

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Upgrade Frozen Chicken Tenders with the Air Fryer https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-chicken-tenders/?adt_ei={{ subscriber.email_address }} https://www.wellplated.com/air-fryer-chicken-tenders/#comments Sun, 15 Jan 2023 11:03:00 +0000 https://www.wellplated.com/?p=78385 Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Air fryer chicken tenders on a white plateA childhood fast-food favorite is transformed to healthy-for-everyone. Made with simple ingredients and the air fryer, they are crispy perfection.

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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Air fryer chicken tenders on a white plate

All-time childhood favorite meets healthy weeknight dinner via extra crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders! With just 8 minutes of cook time, they’re a fast, family-friendly recipe that kids of all ages (and kids at heart!) will adore.

A plate of crispy air fryer chicken tenders with sauce

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Chicken Fingers

  • Homemade is Better. A from-scratch version of the boxed frozen chicken strips and fast food chicken fingers I loved as a kid, these air fried chicken tenders are made with simple ingredients and a nutritious, delicious upgrade from their processed counterparts.
  • Healthy. Thanks to the air fryer, you can enjoy crispy breaded chicken, with very little oil (same with other breaded favorites like Air Fryer Shrimp and Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks!).
  • Crispy AND Juicy. These chicken fingers are gratifyingly crunchy outside, juicy inside, and perfectly dippable (see sauce ideas below).
  • Freezer Friendly. Make a big batch for the freezer, then air fryer frozen chicken tenders directly from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
  • Goes with Anything. Serve them alongside a simple Arugula Salad or have some fun with Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries, and you have a simple, healthy dinner that’s a shoo-in for your greatest hits list.
A plate of air fryer chicken tenders with dipping sauce

How to Make the Best Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

The Ingredients

  • Chicken Tenders. Beloved by children and adults alike, chicken tenders are a delicious, quick-cooking option for lean protein. You can find pre-cut chicken tenders (also called chicken tenderloins) at most grocery stores.
  • Eggs. Help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken tenders.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs. Panko provides a lighter breadcrumb coating that crisps up perfectly in the air fryer.
  • Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs. Regular breadcrumbs help fully coat the chicken tenders in breading, filling in any gaps that the panko might leave behind.
  • Paprika. Adds a mild, savory earthiness.
  • Garlic Powder. For necessary garlicky goodness.
  • Salt + Pepper. The essentials.

The Directions

A bowl of eggs next to a bowl of breadcrumbs and a plate of chicken tenders
  1. Set Up Your Dredging Station. Beat the eggs in one bowl and combine the breadcrumbs and spices in another.
Raw meat being dipped in breadcrumbs
  1. Bread the Chicken. Dip chicken in the eggs, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture.
Raw chicken tenders on a baking sheet
  1. Get Ready to Air Fry. Lay the tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Breaded raw meat in an air fryer basket
  1. Arrange the Chicken in Your Air Fryer. Make sure they’re in a single layer; you will probably need to cook the chicken batches.
Crispy air fryer chicken tenders
  1. Air Fry, Flipping Halfway Through. Chicken tenders cook in the air fryer at 400 degrees F for 7 to 8 minutes.
  2. Cook Remaining Batches. ENJOY!
Air fryer chicken tenders being dipped in sauce

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Sauce Suggestions

Because dunking in your favorite dipping sauce is half of the fun!

A plate of crispy air fryer chicken tenders with sauce

Storage Tips

  • To Store. Refrigerate air fryer chicken tenders in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.
  • To Reheat. Rewarm leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees F, in the air fryer, or (if you are desperate and don’t care about texture) in the microwave.
  • To Freeze. Lay cooked air fryer chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen tenders to an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.

Storage Tips

To ensure your frozen air fryer chicken tenders are crispy once reheated, skip the microwave. Rewarming them in the oven or air fryer will help crisp them back up.

Healthy chicken tenders in an air fryer

Leftover Ideas

Leftover air fryer chicken tenderloins make a fabulous addition to your favorite salad. I love swapping them for the chicken in this Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, using them in this copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad, or adding them to this Spinach Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Poppy Seed Dressing.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Regular AND Panko Breadcrumbs. The key to making the chicken tenders crispy. The regular breadcrumbs adhere easily to the chicken, so you get a complete coating. The larger panko breadcrumbs add essential crunch. Some recipes call for air fryer chicken tenders with flour, but I find breadcrumbs yield a better breading that is more reminiscent of the frozen variety (in a good way).
  • Have Fun with the Seasonings. I’ve suggested some light seasoning that gives the chicken tenders flavor without losing the simplicity of their appeal. Feel free to add cayenne to make them spicy or swap in Cajun seasoning for a twist.
  • Feel Free to DIY Tenders. If your store doesn’t carry chicken tenderloins, make your own by slicing a boneless, skinless chicken breast lengthwise into strips (about a 1/2-inch thick).
  • Cooking Times Vary by Model. How long chicken tenders stay in the air fryer will depend upon your model, as well as how crisp you would like them to be. In my model at 400 degrees F, the chicken tenders cook in 7 to 8 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Air Fry Frozen Raw Chicken Tenders?

You can certainly put frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer, but only if you are making air fryer chicken tenders with no breading. Because this recipe is breaded, you will need to thaw the chicken first in order for the bread crumbs to adhere. Thawed, raw chicken is completely safe to put in an air fryer.

Can I Make Chicken Tenders without Breading?

For chicken tenders without breading (say you are following a keto or low-carbohydrates diet), skip the breading, use the seasoning from my Air Fryer Chicken Breast and cook the chicken tenders at 400 degrees F for 7 to 8 minutes cooking time as directed in this recipe. (These Grilled Chicken Tenders are another delicious option.)

Can I Use Different Seasonings for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?

Yes, you can certainly swap different spices in this recipe. For those who enjoy spicy chicken tenders, add some cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. If you’re a fan of garlic Parmesan air fryer chicken tenders, add Parmesan cheese and extra garlic powder, plus a little onion powder. For an Italian flair, swap the paprika for Italian seasoning or your herb of choice.

Can I Make Chicken Tenders Without an Air Fryer?

No air fryer? No problem! Follow this Chicken Tenders Recipe. You also can bake these chicken strips on a wire rack set on top of a rimmed baking sheet. Use convection heat if your oven has it.
Or, for other excellent crispy baked chicken recipes, check out my Baked Chicken Parmesan or this buttermilk marinaded Baked Fried Chicken.

Air fryer chicken tenders on a white plate
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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Healthy, extra crispy air fryer chicken tenders. Made with simple ingredients, they taste far better (and are better for you!) than frozen or fried!
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings (about 14 tenders)
Calories 343kcal

Ingredients

FOR THE AIR FRYER CHICKEN TENDERS:

  • 2 pounds chicken tenders about 14
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt divided
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Olive oil spray

FOR DIPPING (optional):

Instructions

  • With paper towels, pat the chicken tenders dry. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt.
  • In a shallow bowl (a pie dish works well) beat the eggs together. In a second shallow bowl, stir together the panko, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and keep it nearby.
    A bowl of eggs next to a bowl of breadcrumbs and a plate of chicken tenders
  • Coat the chicken tenders: Working a few at a time, dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then into the breadcrumb mixture, patting it gently as needed to adhere. Shake off excess.
    Raw meat being dipped in breadcrumbs
  • Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining pieces.
    Raw chicken tenders on a baking sheet
  • Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F. If you’d like to keep the chicken warm between batches, turn a regular oven to 250 degrees F. Coat the air fryer basket with the olive oil cooking spray, then add chicken tenders in a single layer so that they are not touching (I can cook 4 at a time). Coat the top of the chicken tenders with oil spray.
    Breaded raw meat in an air fryer basket
  • Cook the chicken for 7 to 8 minutes, pulling out the air fryer basket and flipping the pieces over once halfway through. (The chicken should register at least 165 degrees F on an instant read thermometer and the outsides will be golden brown and crisp.) Repeat with remaining chicken tenders, keeping them warm in the oven between batches as desired. Enjoy hot.
    Crispy air fryer chicken tenders

Video

Notes

  • TO STORE: Refrigerate chicken tenders in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.
  • TO REHEAT: Rewarm leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees F, in the air fryer, or in the microwave.
  • TO FREEZE: Lay cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen tenders to an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen.

Nutrition

Serving: 1(of 4) | Calories: 343kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 53g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 227mg | Potassium: 913mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 680IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 2mg

More Scrumptious Air Fryer Recipes

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