Craving that classic, comforting taste of fish and chips but want to skip the greasy mess and extra calories of deep frying? You’re in luck! Air fryers have revolutionized how we enjoy our favorite “fried” foods, delivering incredible crispiness with a fraction of the oil. But with so many options out there, how do you find the best air fryer for fish and chips that truly delivers flaky fish and golden, crunchy fries?
We’ve done the legwork for you! Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a hungry family, finding an air fryer that handles both delicate fish and robust chips with ease is key. We’ve reviewed seven top contenders, focusing on features that make them ideal for creating your next delicious, healthier fish and chips feast. Let’s dive in and find your perfect kitchen companion!
1. Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity
The Ninja Air Fryer Pro is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for consistent, super-crispy results without the fuss. Its standout Air Crisp Technology truly shines when it comes to achieving that perfect golden-brown on both your fish and chips. With a generous 5-quart capacity, it’s large enough to handle a family-sized portion of fries and a couple of fish fillets simultaneously, making meal prep a breeze. It’s a strong contender for the best air fryer for fish and chips for families.
Key Features:
* AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 400℉ superheated air for hot, crispy results with little to no oil.
* LARGE CAPACITY: 5-QT nonstick basket fits up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
* 4-in-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
* GUILT-FREE FRIED FOODS: Up to 75% less fat than traditional methods.
* FROZEN TO CRISPY: Cook frozen foods in minutes for an extra-crispy finish.
* SPACE SAVER: Ninja’s latest design saves countertop space.
* EASY TO CLEAN: Nonstick basket and crisper plate for simple cleanup.
* WHAT’S INCLUDED: Air Fryer, 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate, chef-inspired 20 recipe book and cooking charts.
Pros:
* Exceptional crisping capabilities, ideal for both fish and chips.
* Good capacity for small to medium families.
* Easy to clean with nonstick, removable parts.
* Versatile with multiple cooking functions.
Cons:
* May not be large enough for very big families cooking multiple batches.
* Specific temperature controls might require a slight learning curve for some.
User Impressions: Users frequently praise this Ninja model for its ability to produce incredibly crispy food with minimal oil, often noting how quickly it cooks frozen items to perfection. Many appreciate the easy cleanup, which is a huge plus after cooking.
2. Chefman TurboFry® Touch Air Fryer, XL 8-Qt Family Size
When you’re feeding a crowd or just love making bigger batches of your favorite foods, the Chefman TurboFry® Touch XL 8-Qt is a true workhorse. Its extra-large capacity is perfect for accommodating multiple fish fillets and a generous serving of chips, ensuring everyone gets their crispy fix. The LED Shake Reminder is a genius feature, helping you achieve even browning and crispiness, which is crucial for perfect fish and chips. This machine is definitely in the running for the best air fryer for fish and chips if size matters.
Key Features:
* CRISPY & HEALTHY: Digital Air Fryer Oven for crispy delights with 98% less oil.
* ONE-TOUCH MAGIC: Large Air Fryer Presets for fries, chicken, fish, and meat.
* LED SHAKE REMINDER: Ensures even crispiness.
* PRECISE TEMPERATURES: XL Range from 200-400°F.
* EFFORTLESS CLEANING: Dishwasher-safe basket and tray, easy-to-wipe exterior.
* INTELLIGENT SHUTOFF: Pauses heating when opened, resumes when closed; auto-shuts off post-cooking.
* FAMILY-SIZED QUICK COOKING: Designed for 4-6 people.
* SLEEK & SPACIOUS DESIGN: Elegant without occupying too much counter space.
* TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety tech and 1-year assurance.
Pros:
* Huge 8-quart capacity, great for large families or entertaining.
* Shake reminder ensures even cooking and crispiness.
* Presets simplify cooking, including one for fish and fries.
* Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe components.
Cons:
* Larger footprint may not suit smaller kitchens.
* Some users might prefer manual controls over extensive presets.
User Impressions: Customers love the sheer size and ease of use, often highlighting how quickly it cooks large amounts of food. The shake reminder is a frequently praised feature, contributing to consistently good results, especially for chips.
3. Ninja Air Fryer, Roast, Bake, Air Fry, Roast, Broil (4-Quart)
This 4-quart Ninja Air Fryer is a compact powerhouse, offering impressive versatility in a smaller footprint. While its capacity might be more suited for smaller households or couples, it still delivers on the promise of guilt-free, crispy fried foods. The wide temperature range means you can perfectly crisp up your fish and chips or even dehydrate some snacks. If you’re a single person or a duo looking for the best air fryer for fish and chips that won’t hog your counter, this Ninja is a prime candidate.
Key Features:
* LESS FAT: Air fry with up to 75% less fat than traditional methods.
* WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: 105°F-400°F for various cooking needs.
* FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket fits 2 lbs of French fries.
* 4-IN-1 VERSATILITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
* DEHYDRATE: Create flat, chip-like dehydrated foods.
* EASY-TO-CLEAN: Dishwasher-safe parts.
* WHAT’S INCLUDED: Air Fryer, 4 Quart Nonstick Basket, Crisper Plate, and 20 Recipe Booklet.
Pros:
* Excellent for achieving crispiness with less oil.
* Compact size, ideal for smaller kitchens or limited counter space.
* Versatile functions beyond just air frying.
* Dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup a breeze.
Cons:
* 4-quart capacity might be limiting for larger families.
* Doesn’t have an LED shake reminder like some other models.
User Impressions: Reviews frequently commend its efficiency in cooking and its ability to achieve perfectly crispy results. Users with smaller kitchens particularly appreciate its compact design and easy maintenance.
4. COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt
The COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1 is a fantastic all-rounder that truly excels in performance. With its innovative TurboBlaze Technology, it promises beyond-crispy, juicy perfection – exactly what you want for fish and chips! The 6-quart square basket offers a wider and deeper space, making it easier to arrange your food for even cooking and ensuring your fish doesn’t overlap your chips too much. Its quiet operation is an added bonus, making for a more pleasant kitchen experience.
Key Features:
* 𝙏𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology for beyond-crispy, juicy perfection.
* 𝙏𝙚𝙭𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Advanced airflow and precise temperature control for evenly cooked dishes.
* 𝙋𝙧𝙤 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Unique 5-fan speed system and precise 90°–450°F temperature control for professional versatility.
* 𝙏𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: TurboBlaze Technology speeds up cooking time.
* 𝘾𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: 6-quart square basket for family meals.
* 𝙀𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Operates at less than 53 dB for whisper-quiet performance.
* 𝟗𝟓% 𝙇𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙊𝙞𝙡: Enjoy crispy textures with significantly less oil.
* 𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙧-𝙎𝙖𝙛𝙚: Nonstick cooking basket and detachable accessories.
* 𝘾𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙯𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙋𝙧𝙚𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙁𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣: Flexibility to preheat or skip.
* 𝘿𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙈𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙊𝙪𝙩 𝙀𝙣𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙥𝙚: User manual, 30-recipe cookbook, cooking charts included.
Pros:
* Advanced technology for superior crisping and juicy results.
* Large 6-quart square basket is efficient for space and cooking.
* Whisper-quiet operation.
* Excellent temperature control and multiple fan speeds.
* Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup.
Cons:
* Higher price point compared to some other models.
* The array of features might be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
User Impressions: Users rave about the quietness of this air fryer and its exceptional cooking performance, particularly how well it crisps food. The spacious square basket is frequently highlighted as a major advantage for cooking larger items or more food at once.
5. Instant Pot Vortex Plus 4QT Air Fryer
The Instant Pot Vortex Plus 4QT is more than just an air fryer; it’s a multi-functional kitchen wizard. Its EvenCrisp Technology is a game-changer for achieving that desired golden crunch on your fish and chips with minimal oil. Perfect for students, singles, or small families, this compact model saves counter space without compromising on performance. The intuitive touchscreen and one-touch settings make cooking incredibly easy, which is why it stands out as a strong candidate for the best air fryer for fish and chips if ease of use is a priority.
Key Features:
* 6 Cooking Functions: Air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate or reheat.
* Adjustable Temperature: 95 to 400°F (35 to 205°C).
* User-Friendly Operation: One-touch settings and intuitive touchscreen.
* Compact Yet Capable: 4-quart capacity, perfect for up to 4 servings.
* EvenCrisp Technology: Achieve perfect crunch with 95% less oil.
* Quick Cleanup: Non-stick air fryer basket for effortless washing.
* Proven Peace of Mind: Safety features like overheat protection and auto-shutoff.
Pros:
* EvenCrisp Technology ensures excellent results for fried foods.
* Very user-friendly with one-touch settings and clear display.
* Compact size is great for smaller households and limited counter space.
* Versatile with 6 cooking functions.
Cons:
* 4-quart capacity limits batch size for larger families.
* Might require some preheating time for optimal results.
User Impressions: Reviewers frequently praise the Instant Pot Vortex Plus for its ease of use and its ability to consistently produce crispy, delicious food. Its compact design is a major selling point for those with limited kitchen space.
6. Chefman Air Fryer – 6 QT Compact Airfryer
The Chefman 6 QT Compact Air Fryer strikes a great balance between capacity and countertop footprint. Its 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY is particularly exciting for fish and chips lovers, as it allows you to crank up the heat for an extra-crispy finish, especially on those golden fries! The LED shake notifications are a thoughtful touch, ensuring your food cooks evenly for perfect results every time. It’s a robust option for those seeking the best air fryer for fish and chips with a good balance of size and specialized crisping features.
Key Features:
* FAST AND EASY: Digital touch screen, four preset functions for quick meals.
* 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY: Achieve perfect finishing crunch, especially for chicken tenders and French fries.
* STYLISH AND COMPACT: Sleek, narrow design maximizes 6-quart capacity while minimizing footprint.
* HEALTHY COOKING: Enjoy delicious meals with little-to-no oil.
* LED SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Audible alarm reminds you to shake food for crispier results.
* SIMPLE CLEAN-UP: 6-quart nonstick basket and rack are dishwasher safe.
* SAFETY FIRST: Automatic shutoff technology.
* TRUSTED QUALITY: cETL approved with advanced safety technology and 1-year assurance.
Pros:
* HI-FRY Technology is excellent for achieving extra crispiness.
* Good 6-quart capacity for families of 3-5.
* Shake notifications help with even cooking.
* Compact design despite good capacity.
* Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
Cons:
* The “compact” design might still be too large for tiny kitchens.
* The digital display might have a slight learning curve for those used to dials.
User Impressions: Customers love the quick cooking times and the effective shake notifications, which make a noticeable difference in food crispiness. The larger capacity in a relatively slim design is a frequently cited positive.
7. CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving
For the solo diner or couple, the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer is an absolute gem. Don’t let its small size fool you; it’s designed to deliver delicious, healthy meals with little to no oil. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for dorm rooms, small apartments, or anyone with limited counter space. And yes, it can still whip up perfectly crispy fish and chips for one or two! The shake notifications are a thoughtful addition, ensuring your small batches are just as evenly cooked as larger ones. This is truly the best air fryer for fish and chips if portability and space-saving are your top priorities.
Key Features:
* FAST AND EASY: Customize cooking time and temperature up to 400°F; cooks food up to three times quicker than an oven.
* HEALTHY COOKING: Uses little-to-no oil.
* SUPREME SPACE-SAVER: Square basket maximizes 2-quart capacity in a sleek, narrow design.
* SHAKE NOTIFICATIONS: Audible alarm reminds you to shake food for the crispiest results.
* COMPACT STORAGE: Perfectly sized for 1-2 people, fits well on countertops or in cabinets.
* SIMPLE CLEAN-UP: Nonstick 2-quart basket and rack are dishwasher safe.
* SAFETY FIRST: Automatic shutoff technology.
* RESOURCES: cETL approved with advanced safety technology and 1-year assurance.
Pros:
* Extremely compact and space-saving.
* Ideal capacity for 1-2 people.
* Fast cooking times.
* Shake notifications ensure even crisping.
* Very easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
Cons:
* Too small for families.
* Limited versatility compared to larger, multi-function models.
User Impressions: Users consistently praise its small size, perfect for solo living or small kitchens. Many are surprised by how effectively it crisps food despite its compact nature, making it a favorite for quick, healthy meals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can you really make crispy fish and chips in an air fryer?
A1: Absolutely! Air fryers use superheated air to circulate around your food, creating a crispy, golden exterior very similar to deep frying, but with significantly less oil. For best results, use a light coating of oil or cooking spray on your fish and chips.
Q2: What kind of fish works best in an air fryer for fish and chips?
A2: Firm, white fish like cod, haddock, tilapia, or pollock are ideal. They hold their shape well and cook beautifully in the air fryer, becoming flaky and tender on the inside while crisping up nicely on the outside.
Q3: Do I need to preheat my air fryer for fish and chips?
A3: While some air fryers don’t strictly require preheating, doing so often helps achieve better and more consistent crispiness, especially for items like chips. Check your specific air fryer’s manual, but generally, 3-5 minutes of preheating at the desired cooking temperature is recommended.
Q4: How do I prevent my fish from sticking to the air fryer basket?
A4: Most air fryer baskets are non-stick, but a light spray of cooking oil (non-aerosol pumps are best to protect the non-stick coating) or parchment paper cut to size can further prevent sticking. Ensure your fish is not overly wet before placing it in the basket.
Q5: What’s the ideal temperature and time for air frying fish and chips?
A5: For chips (fries), typically 375-400°F (190-205°C) for 15-25 minutes, shaking the basket every 5-7 minutes. For fish, around 350-375°F (175-190°C) for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. It’s best to cook them separately if possible to ensure optimal crisping and avoid overcrowding.
Q6: Is air frying healthier than deep frying for fish and chips?
A6: Yes, significantly! Air frying uses little to no added oil, which drastically reduces the fat and calorie content compared to traditional deep frying. You get the crispy texture you love without the guilt.
Q7: How do I clean my air fryer after making fish and chips?
A7: Most air fryer baskets and crisper plates are non-stick and dishwasher safe. For the main unit, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. Always let the unit cool down completely before cleaning. Avoid abrasive sponges or cleaners that could damage the non-stick coating.
Choosing the best air fryer for fish and chips comes down to your household size, kitchen space, and desired features. Each of these models offers excellent performance, ensuring you can enjoy that classic, crispy dish with a modern, healthier twist. Happy air frying!