Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance for people who want to cook crispy, tasty food with less oil. From French fries and vegetables to chicken, fish, paneer, and frozen snacks, an air fryer can handle a wide range of everyday cooking.
However, if you have just bought an air fryer, the controls, temperature settings, cooking times, and basket arrangement can seem confusing.
The good news is that using an air fryer is relatively simple once you understand the basics.
In this guide, we explain how to use an air fryer step by step, how much food to put in the basket, when to preheat, how to choose the right temperature, and some common mistakes beginners should avoid.
What Is an Air Fryer?
An air fryer is a countertop cooking appliance that uses rapidly circulating hot air to cook food.
Instead of immersing food in oil like deep frying, an air fryer circulates hot air around the food. This creates a browned and crispy exterior while cooking the inside.
Most air fryers have:
- A cooking basket or tray
- A heating element
- A fan
- Temperature controls
- A timer
- Preset cooking programs on some models
Air fryers are particularly useful for cooking frozen snacks, vegetables, chicken, fish, paneer, potatoes, and reheating certain foods.
How to Use an Air Fryer for the First Time
If you are using your air fryer for the first time, don’t immediately start cooking.
First, remove all packaging materials and check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 1: Remove the Packaging
Take out the basket, tray, cardboard, plastic, stickers, and any other packaging materials.
Check inside the cooking chamber carefully to make sure nothing has been left behind.
Step 2: Wash the Removable Parts
Wash the basket and removable tray with warm water and mild dish soap unless the manufacturer’s instructions specify otherwise.
Dry all parts thoroughly before using them.
Avoid immersing the main electrical unit in water.
Step 3: Place the Air Fryer Properly
Put the air fryer on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
Make sure there is sufficient space around the appliance for air circulation. Do not place it directly against a wall or underneath objects that could be affected by heat.
Step 4: Check the Instructions
Different air fryers have different controls and cooking programs.
Before using the appliance, check the manufacturer’s instructions for:
- Maximum basket capacity
- Recommended temperatures
- Preheating instructions
- Cleaning instructions
- Dishwasher compatibility
- Foods that should not be cooked in the appliance
How to Use an Air Fryer Step by Step
Once your air fryer is ready, follow these basic steps.
1. Prepare Your Food
Prepare the food according to the recipe.
For example, if you are making potatoes, cut them into reasonably similar-sized pieces so they cook more evenly.
If you’re cooking chicken or vegetables, season them before placing them in the basket.
2. Add a Small Amount of Oil if Required
An air fryer does not necessarily require oil, but adding a small amount can improve browning and crispiness for certain foods.
Instead of pouring a large amount of oil into the basket, lightly coat the food.
A small amount of cooking oil is generally enough for foods such as:
- Potatoes
- Vegetables
- Paneer
- Chicken
- Fish
Always follow the recipe and the air fryer’s instructions.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Some air fryers recommend preheating while others can start cooking without a separate preheating step.
If your recipe calls for preheating, set the air fryer to the required temperature and let it heat for the recommended period.
A common starting point for recipes that call for preheating is around 3 to 5 minutes, but follow your specific appliance and recipe instructions.
4. Put the Food in the Basket
Place the food inside the cooking basket.
Try to arrange food in a single layer when possible.
Avoid filling the basket completely because overcrowding can restrict hot-air circulation and result in uneven cooking.
5. Set the Temperature
Select the temperature recommended by your recipe.
As a general starting reference:
| Food | Approximate Temperature | Approximate Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| French fries | 180-200°C | 15-25 minutes |
| Chicken pieces | 180-200°C | 15-30 minutes |
| Vegetables | 170-190°C | 10-20 minutes |
| Paneer | 180-200°C | 8-15 minutes |
| Fish fillets | 180-200°C | 10-15 minutes |
| Frozen snacks | 180-200°C | 8-15 minutes |
| Toasted bread | 160-180°C | 3-7 minutes |
These are general starting ranges rather than universal cooking instructions. Cooking time depends on the food, quantity, thickness, starting temperature, and individual air fryer.
For meat and poultry, use a food thermometer where appropriate and follow recommended safe internal temperatures.
6. Set the Timer
Set the timer according to the recipe.
If you’re cooking something for the first time, check it before the expected cooking time is complete.
Air fryers can cook differently, so you may need to adjust the time after learning how your particular model behaves.
7. Shake or Turn the Food
For foods such as fries, potatoes, vegetables, and smaller pieces of food, shaking the basket halfway through cooking can help with even browning.
For larger pieces, such as chicken pieces or fish fillets, carefully turning them may improve even cooking.
You don’t necessarily need to do this for every recipe.
8. Check the Food
When the timer finishes, carefully check the food.
If it needs more cooking, return it to the air fryer for a few additional minutes.
Don’t automatically add a long amount of cooking time. Small adjustments can prevent food from becoming overcooked.
9. Remove the Food Carefully
The basket and food can be extremely hot.
Use appropriate protection when handling the basket and avoid touching hot surfaces directly.
Transfer the food to a plate and allow it to cool slightly before eating.
Do You Need to Preheat an Air Fryer?
Not always.
Some recipes benefit from preheating because it allows the food to begin cooking immediately at the desired temperature.
However, many air fryers are designed to cook without a separate preheating step.
The easiest approach is to follow the recipe and your air fryer’s instructions.
If a recipe doesn’t specify preheating, you can generally start without it and adjust the cooking time based on the results.
How Much Food Should You Put in an Air Fryer?
One of the most common beginner mistakes is overfilling the basket.
Air needs to circulate around the food for an air fryer to work effectively.
Instead of filling the basket to the top, try to spread the food as evenly as possible.
For foods such as fries and vegetables, a relatively loose single layer generally produces better results than a tightly packed basket.
If you’re cooking a large quantity, it can be better to cook in batches.
Should You Use Oil in an Air Fryer?
You can use oil, but you usually don’t need as much as you would for deep frying.
A light coating can help certain foods brown and crisp.
You can:
- Toss ingredients with a small amount of oil before cooking.
- Use a suitable oil spray if recommended for your appliance.
- Follow the recipe’s recommended quantity.
Avoid pouring a large quantity of liquid oil directly into the bottom of a basket-style air fryer unless your appliance specifically allows it.
What Can You Cook in an Air Fryer?
An air fryer can be used for many everyday foods.
Potatoes and Fries
Potatoes are one of the easiest foods to make in an air fryer.
Cut them into similar-sized pieces, lightly coat them with oil if desired, season them, and cook until they reach your preferred level of crispiness.
Shaking the basket during cooking can help them brown more evenly.
Vegetables
You can air fry vegetables such as:
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Carrots
- Capsicum
- Corn
- Mushrooms
- Potatoes
- Sweet potatoes
Cut vegetables into reasonably similar sizes and avoid overcrowding the basket.
Paneer
Air-fried paneer can be used in wraps, salads, sandwiches, bowls, and Indian recipes.
Marinate the paneer, place the pieces in the basket without overcrowding, and cook until they develop the desired colour and texture.
Chicken
Air fryers can be useful for cooking chicken wings, drumsticks, breast pieces, and other suitable cuts.
Cooking time depends heavily on the size and thickness of the pieces.
Always make sure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature before serving.
Fish
Fish fillets can cook relatively quickly in an air fryer.
Lightly season or marinate the fish and place it carefully in the basket.
Because fish can be delicate, avoid turning it unnecessarily.
Frozen Foods
Many frozen foods can be cooked directly in an air fryer.
These may include:
- French fries
- Nuggets
- Samosas
- Spring rolls
- Potato bites
- Other frozen snacks
Check the package instructions first and adjust the cooking time based on your air fryer.
How to Reheat Food in an Air Fryer
An air fryer can be useful for reheating foods that you want to retain some crispness.
Pizza, fries, snacks, roasted foods, and some baked items can work well.
Instead of using a very high temperature, start with a moderate temperature and check the food after a few minutes.
The exact setting depends on the food.
How to Clean an Air Fryer
Cleaning your air fryer after use helps prevent food residue and unwanted smells.
After Cooking
Allow the appliance to cool down before cleaning.
Remove the basket and tray and clean them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Use warm water and mild dish soap where appropriate.
Wipe the inside of the cooking chamber with a suitable damp cloth once it has cooled.
Keep the electrical components and main unit away from water.
Remove Food Residue
If food is stuck to the basket, soak the removable component if the manufacturer’s instructions allow it.
Avoid aggressive scrubbing that could damage a non-stick coating.
Clean Regularly
Don’t wait for heavy grease or food buildup.
Regular cleaning makes the air fryer easier to maintain and can reduce lingering food smells.
Common Air Fryer Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcrowding the Basket
Too much food can restrict airflow and result in uneven cooking.
2. Using Too Much Oil
An air fryer isn’t designed to deep fry food in a large quantity of oil.
Use only the amount required by the recipe.
3. Ignoring the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Temperature ranges, basket capacity, accessories, and cleaning requirements can vary between models.
4. Not Checking Food During Cooking
Cooking times are not always identical across air fryers.
Check food as it approaches the expected cooking time.
5. Forgetting to Shake or Turn Certain Foods
Some foods benefit from being shaken or turned during cooking.
6. Cooking Without Considering Food Safety
Don’t rely solely on appearance when cooking meat or poultry.
Use a food thermometer where appropriate and follow recommended safe internal temperatures.
7. Blocking Airflow Around the Appliance
An air fryer needs appropriate ventilation.
Keep the air vents clear and follow the manufacturer’s placement instructions.
Air Fryer Temperature Guide
If you’re new to air frying, this simple temperature guide can help you understand the typical cooking range.
| Temperature | Common Uses |
|---|---|
| 150-160°C | Gentle reheating and some delicate foods |
| 160-170°C | Toasting and lighter cooking |
| 170-180°C | Vegetables and moderate cooking |
| 180-190°C | Chicken, paneer and many everyday foods |
| 190-200°C | Fries, frozen snacks and crisping |
These ranges are only a starting point. Always consider the specific recipe and your air fryer’s instructions.
Air Fryer Cooking Tips for Beginners
Here are some simple tips that can make your first few cooking sessions easier:
Start with simple foods. Try fries, frozen snacks, vegetables, or paneer before experimenting with complicated recipes.
Don’t fill the basket excessively. Good airflow is important for even cooking.
Check food early. Your air fryer may cook faster than expected.
Use a little oil when appropriate. It can improve texture and browning.
Shake when necessary. Smaller foods often benefit from being redistributed during cooking.
Keep the appliance clean. Food residue can affect cooking and create unwanted smells.
Learn your air fryer. Two models with the same temperature setting may produce slightly different results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use an air fryer without oil?
Yes. Many foods can be cooked without adding oil. However, a small amount of oil can improve browning and crispness for certain foods.
Should I preheat my air fryer every time?
Not necessarily. Some recipes and appliances benefit from preheating, while others don’t require it. Follow your recipe and manufacturer’s instructions.
Can I put aluminum foil in an air fryer?
It depends on the appliance and how the foil is used. If your manufacturer’s instructions permit it, use foil only in a way that doesn’t block airflow or come into contact with the heating element.
Can I put baking paper in an air fryer?
Some air fryers and recipes allow baking paper designed for high-temperature cooking. It should be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and should not obstruct airflow. Avoid placing loose paper in a preheating or operating air fryer where it could move toward the heating element.
Can I cook frozen food directly in an air fryer?
Many frozen foods can be cooked directly from frozen. Check the package instructions and adjust the cooking time according to your air fryer.
Why is my air fryer food not crispy?
Common reasons include overcrowding the basket, insufficient cooking time, excess moisture, or not using an appropriate temperature. Try cooking smaller batches and allowing enough space for hot air to circulate.
Can I open the air fryer while it is cooking?
Many basket-style air fryers allow you to pull out the basket and check or shake the food during cooking. However, follow your model’s instructions.
How often should I clean my air fryer?
Ideally, clean the basket and removable components after each use. The main unit and heating area should also be cleaned periodically according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to use an air fryer doesn’t have to be complicated.
Start with simple recipes, avoid overcrowding the basket, use the appropriate temperature, check your food during cooking, and adjust the cooking time based on your particular appliance.
Once you understand how your air fryer cooks, you can experiment with everything from crispy potatoes and vegetables to paneer, chicken, fish, and frozen snacks.
The key is to treat the temperature and cooking times in recipes as starting points rather than universal rules. Your air fryer, ingredients, quantity, and cooking preferences can all affect the final result.
If you’re also upgrading other appliances in your kitchen, check our guide to the best side-by-side refrigerators in India.
