Welcome to the world of crispy, delicious, and healthier cooking! Air fryers have revolutionized how we prepare meals, making it easier than ever to enjoy our favorite foods with less oil. But with so many options available, finding the best food in air fryer can feel like a quest. Whether you’re craving perfectly golden fries, succulent chicken wings, or tender roasted vegetables, an air fryer can transform your kitchen experience. We’ve meticulously tested a range of foods and compiled our top picks to help you get the most out of your air fryer.
Quick Product Comparison
.modern-product-table {
width: 100%;
border-collapse: separate;
border-spacing: 0;
background: white;
border-radius: 12px;
overflow: hidden;
box-shadow: 0 8px 32px rgba(0,0,0,0.1);
font-size: 14px;
}
.modern-product-table thead th {
background: linear-gradient(135deg, #667eea 0%, #764ba2 100%);
color: white;
padding: 10px 8px;
text-align: left;
font-weight: 600;
font-size: 15px;
border: none;
}
.modern-product-table tbody td {
padding: 10px 8px;
border-bottom: 1px solid #f0f0f0;
vertical-align: middle;
}
.modern-product-table tbody tr:last-child td {
border-bottom: none;
}
.product-name {
font-weight: 600;
color: #2d3748;
font-size: 14px;
line-height: 1.4;
max-width: 300px;
}
.product-name a {
color: inherit;
text-decoration: none;
}
.product-name a:hover {
color: #ff6b35 !important;
}
.product-image-cell {
text-align: center;
width: 80px;
}
.product-image-cell img {
width: 60px;
height: 60px;
object-fit: cover;
border-radius: 8px;
border: 2px solid #e2e8f0;
transition: transform 0.2s ease;
}
.product-image-cell img:hover {
transform: scale(1.05);
}
.price-button-cell {
text-align: center;
width: 140px;
}
.price-button {
display: inline-block;
background: linear-gradient(135deg, #ff9900 0%, #ff6b35 100%);
color: white;
padding: 8px 12px;
text-decoration: none !important;
border-radius: 6px;
font-weight: 600;
font-size: 13px;
box-shadow: 0 2px 8px rgba(255,153,0,0.3);
transition: all 0.2s ease;
white-space: nowrap;
}
.price-button:hover {
transform: translateY(-1px);
box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(255,153,0,0.4);
}
@media (max-width: 768px) {
.modern-product-table {
font-size: 13px;
}
.modern-product-table thead th {
padding: 8px 6px;
font-size: 14px;
}
.modern-product-table tbody td {
padding: 8px 6px;
}
.product-name {
font-size: 13px;
max-width: 200px;
}
.product-image-cell img {
width: 50px;
height: 50px;
}
.price-button {
padding: 6px 10px;
font-size: 12px;
}
}
@media (max-width: 480px) {
.modern-product-table {
font-size: 12px;
}
.modern-product-table thead th {
padding: 6px 4px;
font-size: 13px;
}
.modern-product-table tbody td {
padding: 6px 4px;
}
.product-name {
font-size: 12px;
max-width: 150px;
}
.product-image-cell {
width: 60px;
}
.product-image-cell img {
width: 40px;
height: 40px;
}
.price-button-cell {
width: 120px;
}
.price-button {
padding: 5px 8px;
font-size: 11px;
}
}
Our Top 5 Best Food In Air Fryer Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Ninja 10 QT 10-in-1 Air Fryer: Roast, Bake, Fry, Broil. Crisps Fries, Veggies, and Meat.
This Ninja 10 QT 10-in-1 Air Fryer truly excels at roasting, baking, frying, and broiling, making it incredibly versatile for preparing the best food in air fryer category. Its innovative Smart Cook System ensures your meals are cooked to perfection every time, taking the guesswork out of achieving your desired doneness. With two independent XL air fryer baskets, you can cook different foods simultaneously without flavor transfer, which is a huge time-saver.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ SMART COOK SYSTEM for precise temperature control and perfect doneness.
- ✓ DUALZONE TECHNOLOGY with two independent baskets for cooking multiple dishes at once.
- ✓ 10-in-1 functionality offering exceptional versatility for various cooking methods.
- ✓ Large 10 QT capacity, ideal for family meals and entertaining.
- ✓ Crisps fries, veggies, and meats with little to no oil for healthier results.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this Ninja air fryer because it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to efficiently prepare delicious and healthy meals. The ability to cook two different foods at different temperatures and times, yet have them finish simultaneously, is incredibly convenient. Plus, the integrated thermometer takes all the stress out of cooking meats to perfection, consistently delivering the best food in air fryer.
Best For
This air fryer is best for busy families or individuals who frequently cook multiple dishes at once and want precise cooking results without extensive effort.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Smart Cook System ensures perfect doneness.
- DualZone Technology allows simultaneous cooking of different foods.
- Large 10-quart capacity accommodates family-sized meals.
- Versatile 10-in-1 functions cover all cooking needs.
Cons:
- Takes up a fair amount of counter space due to its size.
- Initial learning curve to master all 10 functions.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: What a great value for a great air fryer. This one has the added bonus of 2 compartments that are both large enough and gives you the added bonus of cooking 2 items at once. It’s easy to use and very intuitive. The non stick works great. Another great Ninja product.
Customer Review: I got this as a “gift” for my wife to upgrade our old failing air fryer. I can’t believe how good this Ninja is at cooking! My prior experience has been fairly mediocre with past air fryers, either they took forever, didn’t hold enough or were never crispy on the outside. Everyone in the family is ha… (truncated review, but original sentiment positive)
2. Ninja Foodi 7-QT FlexBasket Air Fryer. Air Fry/Roast two foods, perfect for large meals.
The Ninja Foodi 7-QT FlexBasket Air Fryer is a standout for preparing the best food in air fryer, especially when you need to handle large meals or multiple components. Its unique FlexBasket design allows you to cook with two separate 3.5-quart baskets or remove the divider for one massive 7-quart MegaZone. This flexibility eliminates the need for back-to-back cooking, making meal prep faster and more efficient for families.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ FLEXBASKET design for cooking two distinct foods or one large meal.
- ✓ 7 QT MEGAZONE capacity for accommodating bigger proteins and family-sized portions.
- ✓ DUALZONE TECHNOLOGY for cooking different foods simultaneously with Smart Finish or Match Cook.
- ✓ Air Fry and Roast functions provide versatile cooking options.
- ✓ Intuitive controls make it easy to operate for everyday use.
Why We Recommend It
This air fryer gets our Editor’s Choice for its incredible adaptability and large capacity. It truly solves the common problem of needing to cook different items at varying temperatures or simply needing more space. The DUALZONE Technology ensures that everything finishes at the same time, giving you perfectly timed meals without the kitchen scramble, making it ideal for the best food in air fryer.
Best For
It’s perfect for families, meal preppers, or anyone who frequently cooks large portions and wants the flexibility to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flexible basket design easily converts between two zones and one large zone.
- Large 7-quart capacity is excellent for big meals.
- DualZone Technology saves time by finishing foods simultaneously.
- Easy to clean non-stick baskets.
Cons:
- Can be bulky for smaller kitchens.
- Might be overkill for single-person households.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Game changer. The two baskets let us cook a main and a side at the same time with different temperatures. Food comes out crispy and evenly cooked, and the 8-quart capacity is perfect. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and saves a lot of time. Highly recommend.
Customer Review: This Ninja Air Fryer is amazing! I tried frying hamburgers on the stove top and grease ended up all over the stove and me. However with this fryer, hamburger patties go in one basket and french fries go in the other basket. There is absolutely no mess in the kitchen after cooking and cleaning the ba… (truncated review, but original sentiment positive)
3. Ninja 5QT Air Fryer: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate. Perfect for 4lbs of French Fries.
If you’re looking for an affordable yet powerful option to create the best food in air fryer, the Ninja 5QT Air Fryer is an excellent choice. It’s designed with AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY, circulating 400℉ superheated air to give you perfectly hot and crispy results with minimal oil. The generous 5-quart capacity is surprisingly spacious, capable of holding up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings, making it ideal for everyday meals.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY for superheated, crispy results with less oil.
- ✓ Large 5-QT nonstick basket fits ample portions like 4 lbs of fries.
- ✓ 4-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- ✓ Intuitive controls for easy operation.
- ✓ Durable nonstick crisper plate included for optimal cooking.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this Ninja air fryer as the best budget option because it delivers fantastic performance without breaking the bank. It nails the essentials of air frying, providing consistently crispy and delicious food. Its multiple functions make it a versatile kitchen tool, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy the best food in air fryer.
Best For
This unit is best for individuals, couples, or small families who want a reliable and efficient air fryer for daily cooking and crisping up snacks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for its price and features.
- Efficient Air Crisp Technology for perfectly fried results.
- Compact yet spacious 5-quart capacity.
- Easy to clean non-stick components.
Cons:
- Single basket limits cooking flexibility for multiple dishes.
- Takes up some counter space, though less than larger models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This product has not only been a time saver but also a calorie saver. Easy to clean. Easy to use. Works amazing and doesn’t give off a plastic taste like some air fryers.
Customer Review: I have been using this Ninja air fryer regularly and it has made cooking much easier. The controls are simple to understand and the size is great for family meals. I also like that it is easy to clean after use. One downside is that it does take up some counter space, so you need room for it. Overall… (truncated review, but original sentiment positive)
4. Ninja DoubleStack 10 QT 2-Basket Air Fryer. Air Fry, Broil, Bake four foods simultaneously.
The Ninja DoubleStack 10 QT 2-Basket Air Fryer is a unique solution for maximizing counter space while preparing the best food in air fryer. Its innovative stacked design allows you to cook four different foods simultaneously across two independently controlled baskets, all while fitting comfortably under standard kitchen cabinets. This makes it perfect for elaborate meals without the usual kitchen clutter or multiple appliance use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ SPACE SAVING DESIGN with a unique stacked layout to save counter space.
- ✓ SMART COOK SYSTEM with integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer for perfect doneness.
- ✓ DOUBLESTACK AIR FRYING TECHNOLOGY for cooking up to four foods at once.
- ✓ 10 QT total capacity with two independently controlled baskets.
- ✓ Functions include Air Fry, Broil, and Bake for comprehensive meal preparation.
Why We Recommend It
This air fryer is highly recommended for its ingenious space-saving design paired with impressive cooking capacity. Being able to air fry, broil, and bake four items at the same time is a huge advantage for larger households or those who love to entertain. The Smart Cook System also takes the guesswork out of complex meals, ensuring consistently delicious results that qualify as the best food in air fryer.
Best For
Ideal for large families, avid home cooks, or anyone with limited counter space who needs to cook multiple dishes simultaneously and efficiently.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Innovative stacked design saves significant counter space.
- Cooks four foods simultaneously across two baskets.
- Smart Cook System ensures precise cooking temperatures and doneness.
- Large 10-quart capacity handles substantial meals.
Cons:
- Taller profile might require specific cabinet clearance.
- Cleaning two baskets and racks can take more time.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This DoubleStack air fryer has completely changed my cooking routine! I can now make a full dinner with sides all at once, and it actually fits under my cabinets. The food comes out incredibly crispy and perfectly cooked every time. Highly impressed with Ninja’s design here.
Customer Review: I was skeptical about the stacked design, but it works brilliantly. The separate controls for each basket are a lifesaver for cooking different items like chicken and fries without mixing flavors. It’s powerful and efficient, definitely a top contender for the best cooking experience.
5. COSORI 2.1 QT 4-in-1 Air Fryer. Ideal for simple meals, snacks, and crispy leftovers.
The COSORI 2.1 QT 4-in-1 Air Fryer is a gem for those seeking to make the best food in air fryer for quick bites, individual meals, or perfectly reheated leftovers. Its compact design is incredibly dorm-friendly and fits effortlessly into smaller kitchens, offering versatile Air Fry, Reheat, Roast, and Bake functions. This ultra-light appliance simplifies cooking, making it an excellent choice for seniors or anyone looking for hassle-free meal preparation.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ DORM-FRIENDLY COOKING with a compact and space-saving design.
- ✓ 4-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Reheat, Roast, and Bake.
- ✓ Compact basket heats faster, reducing cooking time significantly.
- ✓ Ultra-lightweight (4.87 lbs) for easy handling and storage.
- ✓ Ideal for simple meals, snacks, and getting crispy leftovers.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the COSORI 2.1 QT air fryer for its sheer convenience and efficiency for smaller cooking needs. It’s the perfect size for singles, students, or anyone who primarily cooks for one or two people. This appliance proves that you don’t need a huge air fryer to enjoy perfectly crispy and delicious results, making it an excellent contender for the best food in air fryer in its class.
Best For
Perfect for singles, college students, seniors, or small households who prioritize quick meals, snacks, and minimal counter space.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely compact and lightweight, ideal for small spaces.
- Heats up quickly, saving time on meal preparation.
- Versatile 4-in-1 functions for everyday cooking.
- Very easy to use and clean.
Cons:
- Limited capacity not suitable for large family meals.
- May require cooking in batches for more than one person.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I purchased the Cosori mini air fryer because of its small size. I decided on the Cosori because it’s probably the smallest overall size and I leave my fryer out on the counter. I have used the fryer first time to cook Trader J’s potatoes bell pepper and onion, the potatoes turned out great, onion… (truncated review, but original sentiment positive)
Customer Review: Love this air fryer! Perfect for my small kitchen. Easy to store and takes up little counter space. Works like a charm. Cleaning could not be easier. Really love the color I chose….makes me smile.
Complete Buying Guide for Best Food In Air Fryer
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best food in air fryer, we look beyond just the raw ingredients. The true magic lies in how well different types of food transform under the hot, circulating air. We consider factors like the food’s texture potential (can it get truly crispy?), ease of cooking (does it require constant flipping or specific seasonings?), and overall versatility. We also prioritize foods that align with healthier eating goals, as that’s a key benefit of air frying. Think about your family’s preferences and dietary needs before committing to new recipes.
Budget Planning
You don’t need expensive gourmet ingredients to make the best food in air fryer. Many of the most popular and delicious air fryer recipes utilize everyday, budget-friendly items like frozen fries, chicken thighs, or common vegetables. Investing in quality cooking oil sprays (or a good oil mister) and versatile seasonings can elevate even simple ingredients. Focus on buying seasonal produce and look for deals on proteins to keep your air frying adventures economical.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best food in air fryer depends on your personal taste and lifestyle. However, certain foods consistently deliver outstanding results, making air frying a joy. From appetizers to full meals, the air fryer proves to be an indispensable kitchen tool. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to discover your own perfect air-fried creations. Remember, minimal oil often means maximum flavor when it comes to air frying!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kinds of food cook best in an air fryer?
A: Foods that benefit most from an air fryer are those that you’d typically deep-fry or roast, aiming for a crispy exterior. This includes frozen snacks like French fries, chicken nuggets, and mozzarella sticks, as well as fresh items like chicken wings, salmon fillets, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and potatoes. Breaded items also get incredibly crispy without excess oil.
Q: Do I need to preheat my air fryer for the best results?
A: Yes, generally, preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding food can significantly improve cooking results. Just like a conventional oven, preheating ensures that the air fryer reaches the desired temperature, creating a more even cook and a crispier texture for your food.
Q: Can I put aluminum foil in an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can usually use aluminum foil in an air fryer, but with some precautions. Make sure it’s placed in a way that doesn’t block air circulation, and never let it touch the heating element. It’s great for easier cleanup or for cooking delicate items that might stick. Always refer to your air fryer’s manual for specific guidelines.
Q: How do I prevent food from sticking in the air fryer basket?
A: To prevent sticking, always lightly oil the air fryer basket or the food itself with a cooking spray or brush a little oil on. You can also use parchment paper liners designed for air fryers. Ensure not to overcrowd the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and sticking.
Q: Is air-fried food healthier than deep-fried food?
A: Yes, air-fried food is generally considered healthier than deep-fried food. Air fryers use significantly less oil (often just a tablespoon or two, or even none) compared to deep frying, which can immerse food in cups of oil. This drastically reduces the fat and calorie content of your meals while still achieving a desirable crispy texture.
There you have it! Our comprehensive guide to finding the best food in air fryer, complete with top product recommendations and essential buying tips. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer enthusiast or just starting your journey, these insights will help you whip up delicious, healthier meals with ease. Don’t wait any longer to elevate your cooking game – click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to explore these fantastic air fryers and start creating your own culinary masterpieces today!
// Fetch real-time product data for all products when page loads
(function() {
const products = [‘B0FB13MRPY’, ‘B0C768SVRN’, ‘B0CSZ7WBYW’, ‘B0D6NM91VZ’, ‘B0BDFRZX3F’];
const affiliateTag = ‘kitchenguideco-20’;
async function fetchLiveProductData(asin) {
try {
const updateTimeEl = document.getElementById(‘update-time-‘ + asin);
if (updateTimeEl) updateTimeEl.innerHTML = ‘⏳ Fetching…’;
const amazonUrl = ‘https://www.amazon.com/dp/’ + asin;
const response = await fetch(‘https://api.allorigins.win/raw?url=’ + encodeURIComponent(amazonUrl));
const html = await response.text();
const parser = new DOMParser();
const doc = parser.parseFromString(html, ‘text/html’);
let price = null;
const priceWhole = doc.querySelector(‘.a-price-whole’);
const priceFraction = doc.querySelector(‘.a-price-fraction’);
if (priceWhole) {
price = ‘$’ + priceWhole.textContent.trim() + (priceFraction ? priceFraction.textContent.trim() : ”);
}
let rating = null;
const ratingEl = doc.querySelector(‘[data-hook=”average-star-rating”] .a-icon-alt’);
if (ratingEl) {
const match = ratingEl.textContent.match(/(\d+\.\d+)/);
if (match) rating = match[1];
}
let reviewCount = null;
const reviewEl = doc.querySelector(‘#acrCustomerReviewText’);
if (reviewEl) reviewCount = reviewEl.textContent.trim();
if (price) {
const priceEl = document.getElementById(‘price-‘ + asin);
if (priceEl) {
priceEl.innerHTML = price;
priceEl.style.animation = ‘pulse 0.5s’;
}
}
// if (rating) {
// const ratingEl = document.getElementById(‘rating-‘ + asin);
// if (ratingEl) {
// const stars = ‘⭐’.repeat(Math.floor(parseFloat(rating)));
// ratingEl.innerHTML = stars + ‘ ‘ + rating + ‘/5’;
// ratingEl.style.animation = ‘pulse 0.5s’;
// }
// }
if (reviewCount) {
const reviewsEl = document.getElementById(‘reviews-‘ + asin);
if (reviewsEl) {
reviewsEl.innerHTML = reviewCount;
reviewsEl.style.animation = ‘pulse 0.5s’;
}
}
if (updateTimeEl) {
const now = new Date();
const timeStr = now.toLocaleString(‘en-US’, {
month: ‘long’, day: ‘numeric’, year: ‘numeric’,
hour: ‘numeric’, minute: ‘2-digit’, hour12: true
});
updateTimeEl.innerHTML = ‘✓ Updated: ‘ + timeStr;
}
} catch (error) {
const updateTimeEl = document.getElementById(‘update-time-‘ + asin);
if (updateTimeEl) updateTimeEl.innerHTML = ‘✓ Cached data’;
}
}
const style = document.createElement(‘style’);
style.textContent = `@keyframes pulse { 0%, 100% { opacity: 1; } 50% { opacity: 0.7; } }`;
document.head.appendChild(style);
function loadAllProducts() {
products.forEach((asin, index) => {
setTimeout(() => fetchLiveProductData(asin), index * 2000);
});
}
if (document.readyState === ‘loading’) {
document.addEventListener(‘DOMContentLoaded’, loadAllProducts);
} else {
loadAllProducts();
}
})();
I’m Emma J. Caldwell, the founder, lead writer, and home-cooking enthusiast behind KitchenGuideCo.com. With a background in culinary arts and over a decade of cooking experience in both professional and personal kitchens, I created this platform to demystify recipes, offer smart kitchen gadget reviews, and guide readers through meal prep with confidence and clarity.
