Best Things to Cook in an Air Fryer, Plus 6 Fryers That Handle Them

The best things to cook in an air fryer are foods that benefit from fast, dry heat: chicken wings and thighs, salmon fillets, roasted vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts, frozen fries and nuggets, and reheated leftovers. For cooking all of them well, the Cosori TurboBlaze 6 Qt is our top pick because its fan speeds and 90 to 450F range suit delicate and robust foods alike, with the Ninja Air Fryer XL AF181 as the runner-up for big, crispy batches.

People often buy an air fryer for fries and then wonder what else it can do. The answer is quite a lot. The appliance is a small, fast convection oven, so anything you would roast at 350 to 400F is a candidate: vegetables, fish, chicken pieces, sausages, tofu, eggs, even small baked goods. It also handles what ovens do poorly, like bringing leftover pizza or fried chicken back to crisp in a few minutes. What it does not do well is wet batters, loose cheese, and large cuts that need long, slow cooking.

This guide pairs the foods with the fryers. We did not personally use these products. The article is research-based: cooking guidance comes from general kitchen references and independent publications, and the fryer details come from the maker’s specification sheets and product listings. We avoid health claims; air frying generally needs less added oil than deep frying, but how a meal fits your diet is a question for you and your doctor or dietitian.

Below you will find a ranked list of foods to cook, six fryers that handle them in different ways, a comparison table, a buying guide, and an FAQ. If you were searching for the best things to cook in an air fryer for beginners, the food guide near the end is the place to start.

Our top picks

Top pickNinja Air Fryer XL with MaxCrisp

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Also greatNinja Crispi Glass Air Fryer

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Also greatNinja Air Fryer Pro

• 400℉ superheated air surrounds food for hot, crispy…
• Features 4 customizable cooking functions—Air​ Fry, Roast, Reheat,…
• The 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate fit…

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Also greatNinja Air Fryer Pro

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Top Picks at a Glance

• Best Overall: Cosori TurboBlaze 6 Qt, 90 to 450F and five fan speeds for everything from fish to fries.
• Best for Big Crispy Batches: Ninja Air Fryer XL AF181, 6.5 Qt and 450F.
• Best Value: Chefman 6 Qt TurboFry, 5-in-1 with a 450F Hi-Fry option.
• Best Budget: Sweetcrispy 6 Qt with Window, a square basket and a view of the food.
• Best for Recipe Fans: Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6 QT XL, 6-in-1 with a dishwasher-safe basket.
• Best Traditional Look: Cuisinart 6-Quart AIR-200NAS, five functions and five presets.

Fryers for the Best Things to Cook

1. Cosori TurboBlaze 6 Qt: Best Overall for the Widest Range of Foods

• Capacity: 6 Qt
• Power and range: 1725W, 90 to 450F
• Airflow: 5 fan speeds
• Functions: 9-in-1 including dry and proof
• Coating: PFAS-free ceramic per the listing

Best for: Cooks who want one machine for fish, vegetables, chicken and frozen foods.

Skip if: You only ever cook fries or you have very little counter space.

Different foods want different treatment. Salmon prefers moderate heat and gentle airflow, while wings want a hot blast. The TurboBlaze adjusts to both with its fan speeds and temperature range, so you can cook delicate food without it drying out or light food flying around.

The 90F floor opens up dehydrating herbs, fruit slices and jerky, which broadens what you cook beyond the usual. A 6 Qt basket holds a family-size side or a main for two to four people.

The maker lists a safety lock, and the parts are dishwasher-safe. The ceramic coating is described as PFAS-free. Follow the care instructions to keep it in good shape.

Pros

• Fan speed control
• Wide temperature range
• Dishwasher-safe parts

Cons

• Large
• Features beyond basics

2. Ninja Air Fryer XL AF181: Best for Crispy, Big-Batch Foods

• Capacity: 6.5 Qt
• Power: 1750W, up to 450F
• Functions: 6-in-1 with MaxCrisp
• Listed capacity: 9 lbs of wings

Best for: Wings, fries, tater tots, and game-day snacks for a crowd.

Skip if: You want to cook two foods at once at different settings.

Some foods exist to be crispy, and this is the unit for them. High wattage and a 450F ceiling give a strong finish to frozen snacks, breaded chicken, wings and potato wedges. MaxCrisp is the name for a short, hot burst that helps frozen foods brown.

The basket is roomy enough for batch cooking. If you are cooking a bag of frozen fries for four, you can often do it in one round. Shake the basket midway for even color.

It is a single zone, so mixed meals require sequencing. For a dinner of chicken plus vegetables, cook the chicken first and hold it warm while you do the sides.

Pros

• High heat
• Big basket
• Easy to use

Cons

• Single zone
• Takes counter space

3. Chefman 6 Qt TurboFry: Best Value for Everyday Cooking

• Capacity: 6 Qt
• Functions: 5-in-1 with a Hi-Fry option up to 450F
• Includes bake, dehydrate and frozen settings
• Basket: XL nonstick, dishwasher-safe
• Finish: stainless steel

Best for: Weeknight dinners on a sensible budget.

Skip if: You want more exact control than presets provide.

Everyday cooking means chicken tenders, vegetables, frozen sides and the occasional reheat. This Chefman covers all of that with five functions, a dedicated frozen setting and a high-heat option.

The stainless finish is easier to wipe than a plastic shell, and the nonstick basket is dishwasher-safe. Wattage is not listed in the listing text we reviewed.

It is a good middle-ground choice if you want 6 quarts without paying the premium for extra features.

Pros

• Hi-Fry to 450F
• Frozen setting
• Budget price tier

Cons

• Wattage not listed
• Fewer advanced controls

4. Sweetcrispy 6 Qt With Window: Best Budget Pick

• Capacity: 6 Qt
• Design: square basket with window
• Functions: 12-in-1 including roast, bake, dehydrate
• Temperature: 400F max
• Basket: nonstick and easy to clean

Best for: Beginners who want to watch the food and learn timing.

Skip if: You need a 450F ceiling.

A viewing window is a good teaching tool. When you are learning how long fish or vegetables take, being able to see browning helps you stop at the right moment. The square basket also tends to use floor space well.

Twelve functions is a large number for a budget unit, though many will be variations of roast and bake. It tops out at 400F, which covers most recipes.

As a lesser-known brand, check the warranty terms and return policy.

Pros

• Window
• Square basket
• Budget price tier

Cons

• 400F maximum
• Less established brand

5. Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6 QT XL: Best for Recipe Fans

• Capacity: 6 Qt
• Functions: 6-in-1 crisp, broil, roast, dehydrate, bake, reheat
• Basket: dishwasher-safe
• Finish: stainless steel

Best for: Home cooks who like following recipes and programs.

Skip if: You want a minimal interface.

The Vortex Plus gives you six functions, including broil, which helps with finishing cheese on top of dishes. It also reheats, which is one of the most useful air fryer jobs.

The stainless finish and dishwasher-safe basket suit regular use. Wattage and top temperature are not given in the listing text we reviewed.

If you already use Instant Pot recipes, the brand’s apps and instructions will feel familiar.

Pros

• Broil function
• Dishwasher-safe basket
• Familiar brand

Cons

• Specs not fully listed
• Interface is busier

6. Cuisinart 6-Quart AIR-200NAS: Best Traditional Design

• Capacity: 6 Qt
• Functions: roast, bake, broil, air fry, keep warm
• Presets: 5
• Parts: dishwasher-safe
• Finish: stainless steel and black

Best for: Cooks who want straightforward operation and a classic look.

Skip if: You want an app or advanced programs.

Five functions and five presets cover most of the foods in this guide. Keep warm is useful for timing a dinner, and broil adds a finishing step.

The stainless and black finish matches many kitchens, and the parts are dishwasher-safe.

Wattage and maximum temperature are not listed in the listing text we reviewed.

Pros

• Simple
• Keep warm
• Dishwasher-safe

Cons

• Fewer advanced features
• Specs not fully listed

Also Consider

Chefman 14 Qt Multifunctional Air Fryer

A large rotisserie and dehydrator model with a windowed door, for big families.

Chefman 10L Digital Air Fryer + Rotisserie

A family-size unit with 17 presets and a large easy-view window.

Ninja Air Fryer Pro AF142

A 5-quart Ninja with 1750W and a 400F cap.

Cuisinart 4.5 Qt

A smaller Cuisinart with four functions and four presets.

How We Chose

We began with foods, not machines. We built a list of the dishes that air fryers handle best, using general cooking references and independent publications such as Serious Eats and America’s Test Kitchen, then matched them to the features that matter: capacity, airflow, temperature range and cleanup.

The article is research-based. We did not personally use these products, and there are no personal timings or taste notes. Details on capacity, wattage and functions come from the product listings and manufacturer pages. Where a spec is missing we write not listed.

We avoid health claims and star ratings. Price is shown as a tier.

Buying Guide

Pick the capacity for your most common meal

Most households do well with 5 to 6 quarts. That fits a pound or two of vegetables, four chicken thighs, or a bag of frozen fries. Smaller units work for one or two people, while 8 quarts and above suit big families and meal prep.

If you plan to cook mixed meals, consider dual-basket designs, which let you cook two foods at different settings.

Temperature range changes what you can cook

A 400F ceiling covers most recipes. A 450F ceiling speeds up frozen foods. A low floor, like 90F, adds dehydrating. If you want to cook delicate fish, a lower temperature and gentle airflow help.

Wattage affects preheat time. 1700 to 1800W is common for 6 Qt units.

Basket shape and cleanup

Foods like fries and wings need a single layer, so floor area matters. Square baskets use space well. Look for removable baskets and dishwasher-safe parts.

Coatings vary: ceramic, PTFE nonstick, or glass. Follow the maker’s care instructions.

Controls and presets

Presets help beginners but are not essential. A shake reminder, window or app can make learning easier. Dial controls are simple and durable.

Pick the interface you will actually use.

Safety and placement

Keep the vent clear, avoid placing the unit under low cabinets, and use heat-safe surfaces. Do not leave it unattended while cooking. Follow the manual for liners, foil and oils.

Children and pets should be kept away from the hot exhaust.

Common Mistakes When Cooking in an Air Fryer

Crowding the basket is the top mistake: food steams instead of crisping. Another is skipping the shake or flip. Using too much oil can cause smoke, while using none can make some foods dry.

Check your manual before using aerosol sprays, foil or parchment; some are not recommended with certain coatings or may block airflow.

The Best Things to Cook in an Air Fryer: A Practical List

1. Chicken wings and thighs. Skin-on pieces render fat and crisp in the circulating air. Pat them dry, season, and cook at about 380 to 400F, flipping once. Check doneness with a thermometer, as food-safety guidance for poultry recommends.

2. Frozen fries, tots and nuggets. This is the classic job. Spread in a single layer and shake at least once. Follow the package directions as a starting point.

3. Roasted vegetables. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, carrots and green beans all do well. Toss with a little oil and salt and cook around 375 to 400F, shaking partway.

4. Salmon and other fish fillets. Moderate heat and a short time keep fish moist. Skin side down, a light oil, and a thermometer check make this easy.

5. Sausages, meatballs and burgers. The circulating air renders fat and browns the outside. Leave space between pieces.

6. Leftovers. Pizza, fried chicken and roasted vegetables revive better than in a microwave. Use moderate heat and check often.

7. Tofu and tempeh. Press the tofu, cube it, toss with oil and cornstarch if you like, and cook until crisp on the edges.

8. Eggs and egg bites. Soft or hard-cooked eggs and egg bites in silicone cups work well, using the temperatures in your manual.

9. Small baked goods. Muffins, cookies and hand pies in small portions bake well in a basket, though you should use liners or small pans.

10. Roasted nuts and chickpeas. A quick, dry heat makes crunchy snacks. Watch closely as small items burn fast.

What to avoid: wet batters that drip through the basket, very light leafy greens that fly around, and large roasts that need hours. For those, an oven or slow cooker works better.

Starting Points: Temperatures and Times

These are general starting points drawn from common cooking guidance, not maker claims. Every fryer runs differently, so check early and consult your manual and the food packaging.

Three Weeknight Plans Built Around the Air Fryer

Plan one, chicken and greens. Season chicken thighs and cook them first while you trim and dry broccoli. Hold the chicken warm under foil, then roast the broccoli for ten minutes. A squeeze of lemon and a side of rice completes dinner in under 40 minutes. In a dual-basket model the two foods finish together.

Plan two, salmon and potatoes. Start cubed potatoes at 390F, and add the salmon for the last eight to ten minutes if your basket is big enough. If it is not, cook the potatoes first and keep them warm. Fish tends to pick up smells, so wipe the basket and let it air out afterwards.

Plan three, snack night. Frozen tots, mozzarella sticks and wings in sequence work well in a large single basket. Cook the longest item first, then add or swap others. Serve in waves while the next batch cooks, and expect two to three rounds for a group.

Oils, Sprays and Seasoning

Most foods need only a light coat of oil, often a teaspoon or two for a basket’s worth. Oils with higher smoke points, such as avocado, refined peanut or canola, suit the high temperatures air fryers reach. Oil misters filled with your own oil are a popular alternative to aerosol cans, and some makers advise against aerosol sprays on nonstick coatings, so check your manual.

Season before cooking for dry rubs, but add sugary glazes and sauces at the end, since sugar burns quickly in a fast, hot chamber. Salt can be added before or after; for vegetables with high water content, salting just before cooking avoids extra moisture.

How to Tell When Food Is Done

Color and sound are useful, but temperature is the reliable test for meat. Poultry is generally considered done at an internal temperature of 165F, and fish at about 145F, according to common food-safety guidance. An instant-read thermometer takes the guesswork out and prevents the dried-out results that give air fryers an unfair reputation. For vegetables, look for browned edges and a fork-tender center. For breaded or frozen foods, follow the package, then extend by a minute or two if the coating is pale.

Resting matters too. Let meat sit for a few minutes after cooking so the juices settle, and serve crispy foods promptly, because steam inside a container will soften the crust within minutes. If you need to hold food, a warm oven at a low setting keeps the coating dry better than covering it.

Finally, keep notes. The first time you cook any food in a new fryer, write down the time and temperature that worked. Over a few weeks you will build your own chart tuned to your model, which is more reliable than any generic table, including ours.

Foods That Need a Little Extra Care

Some foods are possible but fussy. Breaded items need a firm coating, so press breadcrumbs on well and mist or brush with a little oil to avoid dry patches. Cheese-topped foods melt quickly and can drip, so use a small pan or foil tray if your manual allows. Delicate leafy greens such as kale can be made into crisp chips, but they burn in seconds, so cook at a lower temperature and check every minute.

Wet marinades should be patted off before cooking, otherwise the surface steams. Thick cuts such as large steaks or whole pork loins can brown outside before the center is ready, so use moderate heat and a thermometer. If a recipe was written for deep frying with a batter, look for an air-fryer-specific version instead of adapting it directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to cook in an air fryer?

Chicken wings and thighs, frozen fries, roasted vegetables, salmon, sausages and leftovers are among the best. They benefit from fast, dry heat.

What should you not cook in an air fryer?

Wet batters, loose leafy greens and large roasts that need long slow cooking are poor fits. Very cheesy items can also make a mess.

Is air frying healthier than deep frying?

Air frying typically uses much less added oil than deep frying. How it fits your diet is a question for you and your doctor or dietitian.

Do I need to preheat?

Many models do not require it, but a brief preheat can help with crispness. Follow your manual.

Can I cook raw chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, but check doneness with a thermometer and follow food-safety guidance for poultry.

What size air fryer do I need for these foods?

A 5 to 6 quart basket suits most households. Smaller units suit one or two people, and 8 quarts and above suit large families.

Can I cook frozen food straight in the air fryer?

Yes, most frozen snacks and vegetables cook without thawing. Shake or flip partway.

Which One Should You Buy?

If you want to cook the widest range of foods, pick the Cosori TurboBlaze 6 Qt. If crispy snacks and wings are your priority, the Ninja XL AF181 wins. The Chefman 6 Qt TurboFry is the value choice, the Sweetcrispy 6 Qt gives you a window on a budget, the Instant Pot Vortex Plus is for recipe fans, and the Cuisinart AIR-200NAS suits simple, traditional cooking.

Start with the foods you already enjoy, and pick the fryer that handles them best.

Sources

• Cosori TurboBlaze product page
• Ninja AF181 product page
• Chefman 6 Qt TurboFry product page
• Sweetcrispy 6 Qt product listing
• Instant Pot Vortex Plus and Cuisinart AIR-200NAS manufacturer pages
• General cooking guidance from Serious Eats and America’s Test Kitchen
• Food-safety guidance for poultry from the USDA

Last updated: October 2026