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An air fryer is a small countertop convection oven that blasts hot air around your food to make it crisp with little or no oil. For people who want healthier meals with less cleanup, it is one of the most useful kitchen gadgets. Here is how to choose the best air fryer for healthy cooking and what to make in it.
Are air fryers healthy?
They can be. Because food needs much less oil than deep frying, you cut a lot of added fat and calories while keeping a crispy texture. They also make roasted vegetables, chicken and fish quick and easy. An air fryer does not make unhealthy food healthy, but it makes healthy food easier to cook.
Basket vs oven style
| Style | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Basket air fryer | Compact, fast and easy to clean | Smaller capacity; food needs shaking |
| Dual-basket | Cook two items at once with different settings | Bigger footprint |
| Air fryer oven | More capacity and trays | Takes more counter space |
| Pod or mini | Great for one or two people | Limited size |
What to look for
- Capacity. 4 to 6 quarts suits one to three people. Go larger for families or meal prep.
- Temperature range and presets. Useful but not essential.
- Non-stick basket. Look for a dishwasher-safe, PFAS-free option if that matters to you.
- Controls. Simple dials or clear touch screens.
- Noise. Fans can be loud; check reviews.
- Footprint. Measure your counter and cabinet space.
Air fryer options to compare
We have not tested these. Read recent reviews and compare sizes.
Ninja air fryers
A well-known brand with several sizes, including dual-basket models.
- 4-IN-1 VERSATILITY: Includes 4 versatile cooking programs: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: 105°F-400°F allows you to gently remove moisture from foods or quickly cook and crisp foods with…
- AIR FRY FAVORITES: Now enjoy guilt-free food. Air fry with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods. Tested ag…
COSORI air fryers
A popular, reasonably priced option with several capacities and presets.
- 𝘼𝙞𝙧 𝙁𝙧𝙮𝙚𝙧 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology delivers a powerful 3600 rpm fan speed and temperatures up to 450℉, …
- 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Cosori’s unique 5-fan speed system and precise 90°– 450°F temperature control deliver evenly cooked dis…
- 𝙋𝙁𝘼𝙎-𝙁𝙧𝙚𝙚 𝘾𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙘 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: The basket and crisper tray feature a PFAS-free, nonstick ceramic coating for enhanced durabi…
Air fryer toaster ovens
If you want more capacity and a multi-use oven, this type can replace a toaster oven.
- A VERSATILE AIR FRYER AND MULTI-COOKER COMBO: Elevates practically any meal, from air frying quick after-school snacks t…
- PERFECTLY DONE TOAST: Oven turns off automatically when the toast count-down timer ends, no burnt toast! Indicator light…
- DUAL-SPEED FAN: Golden fried crisping at its finest with 360º superheated air circulation for your homemade cooking.
Air fryer liners and accessories
Parchment liners and silicone mats make cleanup easier. Check that they fit your basket.
- Healthy Materials: The parchment liners for ninja air fryer made of raw wood and silicone coating, unbleached, no fluore…
- Convenient to Use: No need to cut or measure, just place the liner on the tray or basket and put enough food on the pape…
- No Complex Cleaning: Vailnd disposable baking paper has food-grade silicone oil coating and round bowl shape design, can…
Healthy things to cook in an air fryer
- Chicken breast or thighs
- Salmon or white fish
- Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower
- Sweet potato wedges
- Chickpeas for crunchy snacks
- Eggs in muffin cups
Tips for better results
- Preheat for a few minutes if your recipe calls for it.
- Do not overcrowd the basket. Air needs to circulate.
- Shake or flip food halfway.
- Use a light spray or brush of oil rather than pouring it.
- Clean it after each use to prevent smoke and buildup.
Pair your air fryer with prep-ahead recipes from our meal prep guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is air fryer food as crispy as deep fried?
It is crispy but different. It tends to be lighter and drier than deep frying.
Can I put foil in an air fryer?
Often yes in small amounts, but check your manual and do not block airflow.
What size air fryer should I buy?
4 to 6 quarts works for most households. If you meal prep, consider 6 quarts or more.
Prices, availability and product details change often. Always check the current listing on Amazon before you buy.
Keep going
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. If you have a medical condition, take medication or are pregnant, talk to a doctor or registered dietitian before changing your diet or taking supplements.