My Go-To Tips for Air Frying
So, you want to know how to air fry like a boss. If I can do it, you absolutely can! And it’s easy!
I have no doubt that air frying is about to change the way you cook forever. I’ve been playing around with my air fryer for a while now. Once I got the hang of it, I wondered how I ever lived without it. Here are my tried-and-true tips for air frying like a boss.
I’ve had my Instant Vortex air fryer for about 5 years, and it’s still going strong. Other good ones, according to my friends, are the Cosori and the Ninja. They vary on temperature and settings (air fryer cook times), something I address later in this post.
Start Simple
First things first, don’t overwhelm yourself. The air fryer is amazing, but it’s not magic. Start with something simple like frozen French fries or basic chicken wings.
Trust me, nothing beats that crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside texture that the air fryer delivers. Plus, it’s an easy way to get a feel for how it cooks. Keep an eye on the time and temperature, and don’t be afraid to check on your food as it cooks.
The beauty of the air fryer is that it’s super forgiving—open it up, give your food a shake, and pop it back in.
Preheat Like a Pro
I used to skip preheating my air fryer because, honestly, who has the time? But then I realized how much of a difference it makes with certain recipes.
Preheating helps your food cook more evenly and gives it that golden-brown finish we’re all chasing. It’s worth taking the time to preheat in order to get the best results.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
This might be the hardest rule to follow because, let’s face it, we’re all impatient sometimes. But cramming too much food in the basket is a mistake. I’ve done it, so I know this from experience.
When food is too close together, it doesn’t cook evenly, and you lose that perfect crispiness. So, give your food some space to breathe. If you’re cooking for a crowd, it might take a couple of batches, but the results will be worth it.
Experiment with Seasonings
One of my favorite things about the air fryer is how it locks in flavor. This is your chance to go wild with seasonings. I love tossing veggies in olive oil, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of parmesan before air frying. The air fryer intensifies the flavors, so don’t be shy.
Learn Your Air Fryer’s Quirks
Every air fryer is a little different, so take some time to get to know yours. Perhaps your air fryer runs hot. If that’s the case, reduce the temperature by 10 degrees.
It’s all about trial and error, but once you figure out what works best for your machine, you’ll be cranking out restaurant-quality meals in no time.
Some of My Favorite Air Fryer Recipes
All of the following recipes are extremely easy to cook in your air fryer.
Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders – These yummy bacon wrapped chicken tenders are the perfect appetizer. But sometimes I like to serve them as the main dish.
Crispy Green Beans – When you need a vegetable side dish, put your air fryer to work. I love how crispy and delicious these air-fried green beans always turn out.
Garlic Lemon Chicken – The blend of flavors in this garlic lemon chicken will make everyone at the table very happy. It’s absolutely wonderful!
Small Red Potatoes – This potato recipe from Back to My Southern Roots is perfect when you want a flavorful side dish that everyone will love.
Low Carb Egg Bites – Whether you serve these egg bites for breakfast or have them ready for a grab-and-go snack, you’ll love how easy they are to make!
Juicy Pork Tenderloin – One of the best ways to cook a pork tenderloin is in the air fryer! I love how it always comes out crusty on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Blueberry Muffins – My absolute favorite way to cook muffins is in my air fryer. It’s easy, and they’re always a huge hit at my house.
Now You’re Air Frying Like a Boss!
So there you have it—my top tips for air frying like a boss. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next get-together, the air fryer has got your back. Now get in the kitchen and whip up some deliciousness!