Air fryers have completely revolutionized how we enjoy our favorite crispy treats, making them healthier and quicker. When you think “air fryer,” often the first thing that comes to mind is perfectly golden-brown fries, right? You’re probably here looking for the best frozen chips for air fryer to get that ideal crunch without all the oil. And while we absolutely love a good batch of air-fried frozen fries, today we’re taking a unique look at some incredible pre-prepared potato products and essential air fryer resources that perfectly complement your air fryer lifestyle, offering convenience, flavor, and that sought-after crispy texture. Get ready to discover snacks and guides that will truly elevate your air frying game!
We’ve curated a list that covers convenient, ready-to-eat air-fried potato chips that boast amazing crunch, as well as essential cookbooks to help you master your air fryer for everything from traditional fries to gourmet meals. Let’s dive in and find your next air fryer favorite!
Top Picks: Air-Fried Potato Chips & Snacks
While these aren’t your typical frozen fries you toss into the air fryer to cook, these Kettle Brand chips are already air-fried by the manufacturer. This means you get that lighter, crispy texture and less fat, making them a fantastic, convenient snack that perfectly aligns with the air fryer’s healthier promise. They’re great as a quick side, a lunch companion, or just for munching!
1. Kettle Brand Potato Chips, Air Fried Himalayan Salt Kettle (11.25 oz)
Looking for a snack that hits all the right notes? These Kettle Brand Air Fried Himalayan Salt Kettle Chips are a game-changer. They’re already air-fried by the pros, giving you that satisfying crispy crunch you love, but with 30% less fat than regular Kettle Brand chips. It’s a fantastic option for a lighter snack that still delivers big on classic potato flavor. The generous party size means there’s plenty to go around, whether you’re hosting a get-together or just enjoying a movie night.
- Key Features:
- Himalayan salt: simple ingredients (potatoes, oil, Himalayan pink salt) for a classic taste.
- Kettle cooked and air fried for an incredible texture and light, crispy crunch.
- 30% less fat than regular Kettle Brand sea salt chips.
- Non-GMO Project Verified and Certified Gluten-Free.
- Party size (11.25-ounce bag), great for sharing.
- Authentic recipe for a truly classic salted chip flavor.
- Pros:
- Light and crispy crunch without being greasy.
- Reduced fat content makes it a guilt-free pleasure.
- Natural ingredients and gluten-free for dietary needs.
- Excellent for parties or everyday snacking.
- Cons:
- Not a “frozen chip” to be cooked in an air fryer, but a pre-prepared snack.
- May not satisfy those strictly looking for homemade air-fried results.
- User Impressions: Users rave about the amazing crunch and authentic potato flavor, often surprised by how light they feel despite being so satisfying. Many appreciate the reduced fat and simple ingredient list, making them a go-to healthier chip option.
See it on Amazon here
2. Kettle Brand Potato Chips, Air Fried Sea Salt & Vinegar (6.5 oz)
If you’re a fan of that classic tangy kick, these Kettle Brand Air Fried Sea Salt & Vinegar chips are calling your name! They strike a perfect balance between zesty sea salt and puckering vinegar, all delivered with that signature Kettle Brand crunch. Because they’re air-fried, you get the intense flavor and satisfying texture with less fat, making them a healthier indulgence for your snack cravings.
- Key Features:
- Perfect balance of zesty sea salt and a hint of tongue-puckering vinegar.
- Air-fried and kettle-cooked for an incredible-tasting potato chip.
- 30% less fat than regular Kettle Brand sea salt & vinegar chips.
- Non-GMO Project Verified and Certified Gluten-Free.
- Authentic recipe for a classic salt and vinegar flavor.
- Shareable 6.5-ounce bag, great for snacking on the couch or with friends.
- Pros:
- Intense, well-balanced salt and vinegar flavor.
- Light and crispy texture with a satisfying crunch.
- Healthier option with reduced fat.
- Convenient and ready to eat.
- Cons:
- The smaller bag might not last long if you’re a big fan!
- Like other Kettle Air Fried chips, it’s not a frozen product for air frying.
- User Impressions: Fans absolutely adore the strong, true-to-flavor salt and vinegar taste, noting how they deliver the iconic punch without feeling heavy or greasy. The crispy texture is a consistent highlight.
See it on Amazon here
3. Kettle Brand Potato Chips, Air Fried Sea Salt and Vinegar (11.25 oz)
Love the Sea Salt & Vinegar flavor so much you need more? This larger 11.25-ounce bag ensures you won’t run out too quickly! These Kettle Brand Air Fried chips offer the same perfect balance of zesty sea salt and tongue-puckering vinegar, combined with that incredibly satisfying crunch. Again, with 30% less fat, you can enjoy this bold flavor with a little less guilt. It’s ideal for stocking up or sharing at bigger gatherings.
- Key Features:
- Classic salt & vinegar flavor with a perfect balance of zest and tang.
- Kettle cooked and air fried for an incredible texture and satisfying crunch.
- 30% less fat than regular Kettle Brand sea salt & vinegar chips.
- Non-GMO Project Verified and Certified Gluten-Free.
- Party size (11.25-ounce bag) for greater convenience and sharing.
- Authentic recipe for incredible salt and vinegar flavor.
- Pros:
- Generous bag size for multiple servings or sharing.
- Same great taste and texture as the smaller bags.
- Healthier snack choice due to reduced fat.
- Ideal for parties, picnics, or family snack time.
- Cons:
- Still a pre-prepared chip, not something you air fry from frozen.
- The strong flavor might not be for everyone.
- User Impressions: Customers appreciate the larger bag of their favorite flavor, confirming the consistent quality and crunch. They frequently mention it’s a go-to choice for a lighter chip that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
See it on Amazon here
4. Kettle Brand Potato Chips, Air Fried Jalapeno Kettle Chips (11.25 oz)
For those who like a little kick with their crunch, Kettle Brand Air Fried Jalapeno Kettle Chips hit just the right spot. These chips deliver a balanced jalapeno pepper flavor with enough heat to make things interesting without overwhelming your palate. Just like their counterparts, they’re kettle cooked and air-fried for that perfect crispy texture and 30% less fat, making them a bold yet lighter snack option for spice lovers.
- Key Features:
- Spicy chips with balanced jalapeno pepper flavor and the right amount of heat.
- Kettle cooked and air fried for incredible tasting potato chips.
- 30% less fat than regular Kettle Brand jalapeno chips.
- Non-GMO Project Verified and Certified Gluten-Free.
- Party size (11.25-ounce bag), great for spicy snack cravings.
- Authentic recipe for spicy flavor.
- Pros:
- Satisfying spicy kick with good flavor balance.
- Excellent crunchy texture from the kettle and air frying process.
- Reduced fat for a healthier snack.
- Great for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Cons:
- The spice level might be too much for some.
- Not a frozen product for air fryer cooking.
- User Impressions: Spice enthusiasts love these chips for their authentic jalapeno flavor and satisfying crunch. Many mention they are surprisingly light given their robust flavor, making them a frequently repurchased item.
See it on Amazon here
5. KETTLE FOODS Air Fried Himalayan Salt Chips, 4.25 OZ
Sometimes, you just need a personal-sized portion of your favorite snack! This smaller 4.25-ounce bag of KETTLE FOODS Air Fried Himalayan Salt Chips is perfect for single servings or packing in a lunch. You get all the great benefits of the larger bag – the simple, natural ingredients, the delightful crunch from being air-fried and kettle-cooked, and 30% less fat than traditional chips – in a convenient size. It’s an ideal way to enjoy that classic, wholesome potato flavor on the go.
- Key Features:
- No hydrogenated fats or high fructose corn syrup allowed.
- No bleached or bromated flour.
- Air-fried for a light and crispy texture.
- Himalayan salt for a pure, classic potato flavor.
- Convenient 4.25-ounce bag for individual snacking.
- Pros:
- Perfect single-serving size.
- Healthy snack choice with cleaner ingredients.
- Great crunch and authentic potato flavor.
- Easy to pack for lunches or travel.
- Cons:
- Not a “frozen chip” you’d cook in your air fryer.
- May not be economical for large families or parties.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the smaller, portion-controlled bag for managing snack intake or for quick, satisfying cravings. The consistent quality and taste of the Himalayan salt variety are always praised.
See it on Amazon here
Essential Air Fryer Resources
While the above Kettle Brand chips are fantastic pre-prepared snacks, if you’re truly looking to master your air fryer and perfect dishes like the best frozen chips for air fryer, these cookbooks are indispensable. They provide recipes, tips, and tricks to unlock your air fryer’s full potential, transforming raw ingredients into crispy, delicious meals.
6. The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Beginners: Easy,…
Whether you’re a complete novice or just looking for new ideas, “The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Beginners” is your go-to guide. This cookbook simplifies air frying, making it accessible and fun. It’s packed with easy-to-follow recipes that demystify the appliance, helping you create delicious meals and snacks beyond just potatoes. It’s like having a friendly cooking mentor right in your kitchen, ensuring your air fryer journey starts off on the right foot.
- Key Features:
- Beginner-friendly recipes and clear, concise instructions.
- Wide variety of dishes, from appetizers and sides to main courses and even desserts.
- Practical tips and tricks for mastering your air fryer, including proper usage and cleaning.
- Designed to build confidence and expand your culinary skills with the air fryer.
- Pros:
- Excellent for learning air fryer basics and techniques.
- Inspires creativity beyond typical fried foods.
- Helps maximize the potential and versatility of your air fryer.
- Good value for a comprehensive introductory guide.
- Cons:
- As a cookbook, it’s not a food item itself.
- Some experienced air fryer users might find the recipes too basic.
- User Impressions: New air fryer owners particularly love this cookbook, citing its clear instructions and delicious, approachable recipes. Many found it indispensable for getting comfortable with their new appliance and expanding their cooking repertoire.
See it on Amazon here
7. Air Fry Everything: Foolproof Recipes for Fried Favorites…
Ready to take your air frying skills to the next level? “Air Fry Everything” is a fantastic resource for expanding your recipe collection and confidently tackling a wider range of dishes. This cookbook goes beyond the basics, offering foolproof recipes for all your fried favorites and more, ensuring consistently crispy and delicious results. It’s perfect for those who’ve gotten the hang of their air fryer and are eager to explore more advanced or diverse culinary creations.
- Key Features:
- Foolproof recipes designed for consistent, crispy results.
- Focus on “fried favorites” adapted for healthier air frying.
- Comprehensive guide to various ingredients and cooking techniques.
- Offers creative and diverse meal ideas for all occasions.
- Aims to make air frying a core part of your everyday cooking.
- Pros:
- Broadens your air fryer recipe repertoire significantly.
- Helps achieve consistently perfect crispy textures.
- Inspires confidence to try more complex air fryer dishes.
- Excellent for transforming traditional deep-fried recipes into healthier versions.
- Cons:
- Not a food product.
- Might be overwhelming for absolute beginners without prior air fryer experience.
- User Impressions: Reviewers praise this cookbook for its innovative recipes and reliable results, often mentioning how it helped them discover new favorite air fryer meals beyond just fries. It’s frequently recommended for those who want to get serious about air frying.
See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best frozen chips for air fryer for a crispy finish?
For truly crispy frozen chips (fries), look for options labeled “extra crispy” or “restaurant style.” Brands like Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Fast Food Fries or McCain Superfries Extra Crispy are often highly rated. The key is their coating, which helps them crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer for frozen chips?
Yes, preheating your air fryer is highly recommended for frozen chips. It helps the chips start cooking immediately upon entering the hot basket, leading to a much crispier and more evenly cooked result. A preheat of 3-5 minutes at the cooking temperature is usually sufficient.
What’s the ideal temperature and cooking time for frozen fries in an air fryer?
Most frozen fries cook best at 380-400°F (195-205°C). The cooking time typically ranges from 12-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chips and your desired crispiness. Remember to shake the basket every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking and browning.
Can I put any type of frozen chips in an air fryer?
Generally, yes! Most types of frozen potato products, including crinkle-cut, straight-cut, waffle fries, and even sweet potato fries, can be air-fried. Just be mindful of their thickness, as thinner fries will cook faster than thicker ones.
How do I get my air-fried frozen chips extra crispy?
For extra crispy chips:
1. Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cook in a single layer if possible, or in batches, to allow hot air to circulate.
2. A light spray of oil: A very light mist of cooking oil (like avocado or olive oil spray) can help achieve a golden, extra-crispy exterior.
3. Shake frequently: Shake the basket every 5 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even crisping.
4. Increase temperature at the end: For the last 2-3 minutes, you can slightly increase the temperature to 400°F (205°C) to give them a final crisping boost.
Are air-fried frozen chips healthier than deep-fried?
Yes, generally they are. Air frying uses significantly less oil (often just a tablespoon or a light spray, or none at all if the chips are pre-coated) compared to deep frying. This results in fewer calories and less fat, while still delivering that satisfying crispy texture.
What kind of seasonings can I use on air-fried chips?
Beyond classic salt, you can experiment with a variety of seasonings to elevate your air-fried chips. Try garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, black pepper, or a pre-made fry seasoning blend. For a gourmet touch, add fresh chopped rosemary or truffle salt after cooking.