Tired of firing up the big grill for just a few burgers or some chicken wings? Or perhaps you live in an apartment and a traditional outdoor grill isn’t an option? Enter the humble, yet mighty, air fryer. While known for its incredible crisping abilities, many modern air fryers are stepping up their game, offering features that let you get surprisingly close to that grilled taste right in your kitchen. Finding the best air fryer for grilling can transform your cooking, making healthier, delicious meals easier than ever.
An air fryer that can grill isn’t just a fantasy – it’s a reality! These versatile appliances use rapid air circulation to cook food, often achieving a beautiful sear or char that mimics a grill. From juicy steaks to charred veggies and crispy kabobs, the right air fryer can be your secret weapon for indoor grilling. But it’s not just about the air fryer itself; the right accessories can elevate your experience even further.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive guide to the top contenders and must-have gadgets that will help you achieve that perfect grilled finish. Let’s dive in!
How to Choose the Best Air Fryer for Grilling
When looking for the best air fryer for grilling, consider a few key things:
* Temperature Range: Higher temperatures are better for searing.
* Capacity: Do you need to cook for a crowd or just one or two?
* Pre-set Functions: Some models come with specific “grill” or “sear” settings.
* Accessories: Look for models that include grill grates, skewers, or rotisserie options.
* Ease of Cleaning: Grilling can be messy, so dishwasher-safe parts are a huge plus.
Let’s explore our top picks!
The Top 10 Air Fryer & Grilling Accessory Picks
Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster
This isn’t just an air fryer; it’s a culinary powerhouse designed to tackle nearly any meal, big or small. What truly makes it stand out for grilling enthusiasts is its extra-large 26-quart capacity, ample room to roast a whole chicken or lay out a generous batch of ribs or veggies. The 360º superheated air circulation and dual-speed fan work wonders to get that golden, crispy finish, akin to a gentle char, turning everyday meals into something special.
– Key Features:
– Versatile Air Fryer and Multi-Cooker Combo
– 25 Cooking Pre-sets (including Roast, Ribs, Chicken)
– Dual-Speed Fan for 360º Superheated Air
– Extra-Large 26-Quart Capacity (fits 6-lb chicken, 12” pizza)
– Elegant Stainless Steel Exterior with French Doors
– Pros:
– Huge capacity for family meals or entertaining
– Extensive pre-set options simplify cooking
– Excellent air circulation for crisping and “grilling” effects
– Stylish design enhances kitchen aesthetics
– Toast function with automatic shut-off is a nice bonus
– Cons:
– Takes up significant counter space
– May be an investment due to its size and features
– User Impressions: Users frequently praise its massive capacity and the versatility it offers, noting how it replaces multiple appliances. Many are impressed by its ability to crisp food evenly, making it a favorite for “grilled” chicken or roasted vegetables without the outdoor grill hassle.
See it on Amazon here
CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie
If you’re looking for an all-in-one appliance that truly delivers on versatility, the CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer is a fantastic choice. Its 10-liter capacity means you can easily cook family-sized meals, and the rapid air heating elements mean you don’t even need to preheat like a traditional oven – perfect for quickly getting your “grilled” food ready. The rotisserie feature is a game-changer for whole chickens or roasts, giving you tender, evenly cooked meat with crispy skin.
– Key Features:
– Multi-functional: Air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, roast
– Rapid air heating elements for faster cooking
– Uses 98% less oil than traditional fryers
– 17 preset options and easy-to-use touch control screen
– Includes three air flow racks, rotisserie spit, and drip tray
– Extra-large 10-Liter capacity
– Interior light and large window for monitoring
– Pros:
– Extremely versatile, replacing several kitchen appliances
– Cooks quickly without preheating
– Healthier cooking with minimal oil
– Large capacity is ideal for families or meal prepping
– Easy to clean with removable, dishwasher-safe parts
– Cons:
– Can be bulky on the countertop
– Learning curve for all the different functions
– User Impressions: Customers love the convenience and versatility, especially the rotisserie function which many find surprising for an air fryer. The quick cooking time and ease of cleanup are frequently highlighted, making it a popular choice for busy households seeking healthy meals.
See it on Amazon here
COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt
The COSORI 6-Quart Air Fryer brings professional-grade results to your kitchen with its innovative TurboBlaze Technology. With a powerful 3600 rpm fan and temperatures up to 450℉, this air fryer excels at achieving crispy, juicy perfection – ideal for getting that delicious char you crave from a grill. Its unique 5-fan speed system and precise temperature control give you incredible versatility, ensuring everything from crispy fries to perfectly “grilled” steaks comes out just right, all with 95% less oil.
– Key Features:
– TurboBlaze Technology with 3600 rpm fan speed and up to 450℉
– Advanced airflow and precise temperature control
– 5-fan speed system for professional-grade versatility
– Fast cooking for family meals
– 6-quart square basket for larger capacity in a compact design
– Operates at less than 53 dB (whisper-quiet)
– 95% less oil for healthier frying
– Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket and accessories
– Pros:
– Achieves exceptional crispiness and juiciness
– Very quiet operation, enhancing kitchen comfort
– Healthier cooking with significantly less oil
– Spacious yet counter-friendly design
– Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
– Cons:
– Some users might miss more specialized grill accessories (though general ones fit).
– Higher fan speed might be too powerful for very delicate items if not adjusted.
– User Impressions: Many users are blown away by the speed and quality of cooking, particularly how crispy and evenly cooked their food turns out. The quiet operation is a recurring compliment, making it a favorite for those who use their air fryer frequently. Its ability to create “grilled” textures and flavors is highly praised.
See it on Amazon here
Skewers for Grilling Metal Kabob Skewer Air Fryer Stand
If you’re looking to turn your air fryer into a kabob grilling machine, this accessory is a must-have! Made from food-grade stainless steel, this skewer stand elevates your food, allowing for fantastic airflow around your kabobs. This means you can achieve juicy, tender meats and crispy veggies, getting that “char-grilled taste” without ever lighting up a traditional grill. It’s an ingenious way to expand your air fryer’s capabilities for delightful grilled meals.
– Key Features:
– Food Grade Stainless Steel Material
– Designed for excellent airflow for juicy, tender results
– Ideal for chicken, meat, pork, veggies, and seafood kabobs
– Portable design, can also be used for outdoor BBQ racks
– Easy to use and clean, rust and corrosion-resistant
– Includes an 8.3-inch circular chassis and 15 metal skewers
– Pros:
– Specifically designed to mimic grilling for kabobs in an air fryer
– Durable and safe food-grade material
– Easy to clean and store
– Allows cooking multiple kabobs at once
– Versatile for both air fryers and outdoor grills
– Cons:
– Only compatible with 8-liter air fryers or larger due to size.
– An accessory, not a standalone air fryer.
– User Impressions: Users love how easy it makes cooking kabobs in their air fryer, achieving impressive results. They appreciate the quality of the stainless steel and the ease of cleanup. It’s frequently cited as a great way to add variety to air fryer meals, especially for a “grilled” experience.
See it on Amazon here
Air Fryer Basket for Oven, OPENICE 15.6″ x 11.6″ Large
While not an air fryer itself, this large crisper tray and basket set is a fantastic accessory for those who want to get the air-fried, crispy, “grilled” texture in their regular oven or larger air fryer ovens. Its generous size is perfect for families or entertaining, allowing you to cook more food at once. The mesh basket promotes 360-degree air circulation, eliminating the need for flipping and ensuring super crispy, evenly cooked results, while the tray below catches any excess oil for healthier cooking and an easier cleanup.
– Key Features:
– Large size (15.5″x11.6″) for family-sized portions
– Mesh basket design promotes 360-degree air circulation
– Non-stick surface requires less oil
– Tray catches excess oil and crumbs for less mess
– Easy to clean and dishwasher-safe stainless steel
– Multi-functional for air frying, baking, roasting, and “en papillote”
– Includes 30 pcs pre-cut parchment papers
– Pros:
– Achieves excellent crispiness without flipping
– Promotes healthier cooking by draining excess fat
– Simplifies cleanup with the catching tray and parchment paper
– Large capacity for cooking for multiple people
– Durable stainless steel and dishwasher-safe
– Cons:
– Requires an oven or very large air fryer oven to use
– Not a standalone appliance
– User Impressions: Users rave about how well it crisps food in a conventional oven, making it feel like a large-capacity air fryer. The easy cleanup, thanks to the tray and included parchment paper, is a huge plus. Many appreciate being able to cook larger batches of “grilled” or roasted foods.
See it on Amazon here
Air Fryer Basket for Oven, Stainless Steel Oven Air Fryer
Another excellent accessory for achieving that coveted air-fried crisp in your standard oven, this stainless steel basket and tray set is built for durability and even cooking. Its robust construction means it’s heat and corrosion-resistant, promising longevity. The design ensures even cooking results, so you can say goodbye to unevenly “grilled” or cooked food. Plus, the spacious design accommodates multiple servings, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen looking to get more out of their oven.
– Key Features:
– Crafted from high-quality, heat-resistant, and corrosion-resistant stainless steel
– Unique design ensures even cooking results
– Enhanced crispiness and flavor
– Versatile use in a variety of ovens
– Spacious design for multiple servings
– Easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher
– Includes 50 pieces of barbecue paper and food tongs
– Pros:
– Extremely durable and long-lasting
– Guarantees even cooking and crispiness
– Large capacity for family meals
– Easy to clean and dishwasher-safe
– Comes with useful accessories (paper, tongs)
– Cons:
– Requires an oven for use; not a standalone air fryer.
– May take up significant storage space.
– User Impressions: Customers love the solid construction and how effectively it transforms their regular oven into a large air fryer. The consistent crispiness and ease of cleanup are frequently mentioned benefits. It’s a favorite for large batches of “grilled” veggies or roasted chicken pieces.
See it on Amazon here
Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital – Instant Read Food…
While not an air fryer, an instant-read meat thermometer is an absolutely essential tool for anyone serious about cooking meats, whether you’re using the best air fryer for grilling or an outdoor BBQ. This thermometer gives you accurate readings in 2-3 seconds, ensuring your “grilled” chicken, steak, or ribs are cooked to perfection every single time, avoiding overcooked or undercooked mishaps. Its multi-use functionality and water-resistant design make it incredibly practical for any cooking scenario.
– Key Features:
– Instant read (2-3 seconds response time) and highly accurate
– Multi-use for meats, liquids, deep frying, candy making (air fryer, oven, grill, BBQ)
– Easy-read digital display with bright blue backlight
– Water-resistant IP67 rated
– Comes pre-calibrated with recalibrating feature if needed
– Includes instructions and meat temperature chart
– Pros:
– Ensures perfectly cooked, safe food every time
– Extremely fast and accurate readings
– Versatile for all types of cooking and appliances
– Easy to read in any lighting condition
– Durable and water-resistant for easy cleaning
– Cons:
– An accessory, not a cooking appliance.
– Requires batteries (though typically included).
– User Impressions: Users universally praise its speed and accuracy, calling it a “game-changer” for cooking meats perfectly. Its ease of use and the bright backlight are often highlighted, making it indispensable for grilling, roasting, or air frying.
See it on Amazon here
Katbite 350Pcs 9×13 In Parchment Paper Sheets, Heavy Duty
For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking when using your air fryer or oven for “grilling,” these heavy-duty parchment paper sheets are a lifesaver. Pre-cut to a convenient 9×13 inch size, they save you the hassle of cutting and ensure a perfect fit in many air fryer baskets or baking trays. The double silicone coating means nothing sticks, and their extra-thick, unbleached, and natural composition makes them a healthy and reliable choice for your cooking needs.
– Key Features:
– Perfect pre-cut size (9×13 inches, 350 count)
– Non-Stick with double silicone coating
– Heavy Duty & Extra Strong (45gsm paper)
– Made from 100% pure wood pulp, unbleached, fluorescent-free, kosher certified
– Multi-use for baking, wrapping, freezing, microwave, and ovens (up to 450°F)
– Pros:
– Significantly simplifies cleanup after cooking
– Prevents food from sticking to your air fryer basket or tray
– Healthier and safer option with natural materials
– Durable and tear-resistant for heavy use
– Convenient pre-cut sheets save time
– Cons:
– Single-use, leading to waste (though biodegradable).
– Can interfere with some air circulation if not used carefully.
– User Impressions: Customers love the convenience of the pre-cut sheets and how well they prevent sticking, making cleanup a breeze. Many highlight the quality and thickness, noting they don’t tear easily. It’s a popular accessory for keeping air fryer baskets clean.
See it on Amazon here
SMARTAKE 200 Pcs Unbleached Parchment Paper Baking Sheets
Similar to the Katbite sheets, the SMARTAKE parchment paper sheets offer incredible convenience for messy air fryer or oven cooking, especially when you’re aiming for that “grilled” effect without the cleanup hassle. These pre-cut, flat sheets eliminate curling and are perfectly sized for 10×15 inch baking sheets, making them ideal for many air fryer ovens or larger air fryer baskets. They are food-grade, non-toxic, and resistant to temperatures up to 450°F, ensuring safe and non-stick cooking every time.
– Key Features:
– Pre-cut baking sheets (200 pieces) that lay flat
– Food-grade, non-toxic, suitable for baking, grilling, frying, steaming
– Non-stick parchment sheets
– No curly baking paper due to flat packaging
– Suitable size for 10×15 inch baking sheets (clean cut edges)
– Resists temperatures up to 450°F
– Pros:
– Super convenient pre-cut, non-curling sheets
– Excellent non-stick properties for easy food removal
– Reduces cleanup time significantly
– Safe for various cooking methods and high temperatures
– Compact, flat packaging for easy storage
– Cons:
– Not ideal for smaller air fryer baskets without trimming.
– Single-use product.
– User Impressions: Reviewers consistently praise the pre-cut design and the fact that the sheets lie flat, making them incredibly easy to use. The non-stick quality is highly valued, ensuring food slides right off and cleanup is minimal. It’s a favorite for keeping air fryer and oven trays pristine.
See it on Amazon here
Mantova Air Fryer Spray 450F Smoke Point – All-Natural
A good cooking spray is crucial for preventing food from sticking and for achieving a light crisp in your air fryer, especially when you’re trying to replicate a grilled texture. Mantova’s Air Fryer Spray stands out because it’s made with all-natural ingredients and has a high smoke point of 450°F, meaning it won’t break down or produce smoke at typical air frying or “grilling” temperatures. This versatile spray is perfect for ensuring your food crisps beautifully without added artificial flavors or unhealthy additives.
– Key Features:
– All-Natural Ingredients (pure oil, free of additives and artificial flavors)
– High Smoke Point (stands up to 450°F)
– Versatile: Great for air fryers, roasting, grilling, baking, and more
– Pros:
– Healthy and natural option for non-stick cooking
– Prevents sticking in high-heat air frying and “grilling”
– Doesn’t smoke or burn easily
– Versatile for many cooking applications
– Light and even coating for consistent results
– Cons:
– A consumable product, requires re-purchase.
– Must be sprayed evenly to avoid stickiness in spots.
– User Impressions: Users appreciate that it’s an all-natural product with a high smoke point, preventing issues like residue buildup or burning. It’s frequently recommended for keeping air fryer baskets non-stick and for achieving a golden, crispy finish on “grilled” foods.
See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section
Q1: Can an air fryer truly grill food like an outdoor grill?
A1: While an air fryer won’t give you the exact smoky flavor of a charcoal or gas grill, many models can achieve excellent searing and charring, mimicking a grilled texture, especially on items like chicken, steak, or vegetables. Some even come with dedicated grill plates or functions.
Q2: What features should I look for in the best air fryer for grilling?
A2: Look for higher temperature settings (400-450°F), a powerful fan for good airflow, and models that come with specific grill grates, skewer sets, or rotisserie functions. A larger capacity is also beneficial for spreading out food to allow for better browning.
Q3: Is it healthier to “grill” in an air fryer?
A3: Yes, generally. Air fryers use significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, and they allow excess fat to drip away, similar to grilling. This results in meals with fewer calories and less fat while still maintaining excellent flavor and texture.
Q4: How do I get those perfect grill marks in my air fryer?
A4: Some air fryers come with specialized grill plates that have raised ridges to create grill marks. If your air fryer doesn’t have one, you can often buy aftermarket grill accessories. Preheating the air fryer (or the grill plate) to a high temperature before adding food can also help achieve better grill marks and a good sear.
Q5: What are some good foods to “grill” in an air fryer?
A5: An air fryer is excellent for “grilling” chicken breasts and thighs, steak, salmon, shrimp, halloumi cheese, and various vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and asparagus. Kabobs are also fantastic with the right accessories!
Q6: How do I clean my air fryer after “grilling” greasy foods?
A6: Most air fryer baskets and accessories are non-stick and dishwasher-safe, making cleanup easy. For stubborn grease, soak the basket in warm, soapy water before gently scrubbing. Using parchment paper or air fryer liners (like the ones mentioned in our product reviews) can also significantly reduce cleanup.
Q7: Can I use aluminum foil in my air fryer for “grilling”?
A7: Yes, you can generally use aluminum foil in an air fryer, but with some precautions. Don’t cover the entire bottom of the basket, as this can impede airflow. Only use enough to cover the food or the area beneath it to catch drips. Avoid placing foil directly on heating elements, and never preheat an empty air fryer with foil in it. Parchment paper is often a better alternative.
Ready to Get Your Grill On (Indoors)?
Choosing the best air fryer for grilling can revolutionize your cooking, offering a healthier, more convenient way to enjoy those classic grilled flavors any time of year. Whether you opt for a feature-packed air fryer with dedicated grilling functions or enhance your current appliance with clever accessories, you’re just a few steps away from delicious, perfectly “grilled” meals right in your kitchen. Happy cooking!