Do I need to preheat an air fryer?

Yes, for 3 to 5 minutes. Food browns better and cooks more evenly.

Why is my air fryer food not crispy?

The basket was crowded or the food had no oil. Cook in a single layer and mist coatings with oil.

New to the Air Fryer?

An air fryer is a small, powerful convection oven. These tips get good results from the first try, and the five recipes below go from the simplest to the most satisfying.

Six tips for air fryer beginners

Preheat it. Three to five minutes, just like an oven; food browns better and cooks more evenly.
Do not crowd the basket. Hot air has to reach every side. Cook in batches; a crowded basket steams instead of crisping.
Use a little oil. A light mist of oil or cooking spray is what turns coatings golden. Dry bread crumbs stay pale.
Shake or turn halfway. Shake small pieces; flip chops, chicken and fish once.
Check early. Air fryers vary. Start checking a few minutes before the recipe says, and use a thermometer for meat and fish.
Clean the basket after every use. Built-up grease smokes. Soak the basket in hot soapy water while you eat.

Five recipes to start with

Air Fryer Salmon13 min total | 4 servings
Salmon fillets brushed with a honey, Dijon and garlic glaze and air-fried in about 8 minutes until flaky inside with lightly crisp edges. Serves 4.
Air Fryer Shrimp16 min total | 4 servings
Large shrimp tossed with olive oil, garlic, paprika and a little Parmesan and air-fried in 6 minutes until crisp-edged and juicy. Serves 4.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders30 min total | 4 servings
Chicken tenders coated in seasoned panko and Parmesan and air fried until golden and crunchy, with a honey mustard dipping sauce. Serves 4.
Air Fryer Pork Chops27 min total | 4 servings
Boneless pork chops rubbed with brown sugar, smoked paprika and garlic, air fried until browned outside and juicy inside. Ready in under 30 minutes; serves 4.
Air Fryer Chicken Thighs35 min total | 4 servings
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs seasoned with garlic, paprika and thyme and air fried until the skin is crackling crisp. Serves 4.

Ready for more? See all air fryer recipes.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to preheat an air fryer?: Yes, for 3 to 5 minutes. Food browns better and cooks more evenly.
Why is my air fryer food not crispy?: The basket was crowded or the food had no oil. Cook in a single layer and mist coatings with oil.