Can You Cook Rice in the Air Fryer Discover the Easy Method

Yes, you can cook rice in the air fryer—it’s a quick, hands-off method that delivers perfectly fluffy results every time. Using a covered heat-safe dish, simply combine rice and water in a 1:1.5 ratio, then cook at 360°F for 20–25 minutes, adjusting for texture. No stirring, no mess, just easy, one-pot rice with minimal cleanup.

Key Takeaways

• Cook rice in air fryer: Yes, with the right method and timing.
• Use a heat-safe dish: Prevents spills and ensures even cooking.
• 1:1.5 rice-to-water ratio: Achieves perfect texture every time.
• Pre-soak for better results: Reduces cook time and improves fluffiness.
• Shake or stir halfway: Ensures uniform doneness and prevents clumping.
• Adjust time for texture: Less time for al dente, more for softer.
• Clean promptly after use: Prevents residue buildup and odors.

Can You Cook Rice in the Air Fryer? Discover the Easy Method

You’ve probably used your air fryer for crispy fries, juicy chicken wings, or even reheating leftovers with that perfect crunch. But have you ever thought about cooking rice in it? At first glance, it seems a little odd. Rice needs water, steam, and gentle heat—conditions that don’t exactly scream “air fryer.” But what if I told you that yes, you can cook rice in the air fryer, and it’s simpler than you’d expect?

When I first heard about cooking rice in an air fryer, I was skeptical. My air fryer is great for browning and crisping, not simmering grains in water. But curiosity got the better of me, and after a few experiments (and a couple of slightly overcooked batches), I discovered a method that actually works—consistently. Whether you’re short on stove space, don’t own a rice cooker, or just love trying new kitchen hacks, this method might surprise you. It’s not just possible; it’s surprisingly effective when done right. So, let’s dive into how you can cook fluffy, perfectly textured rice in your air fryer—no extra gadgets required.

Why Consider Cooking Rice in the Air Fryer?

The Space-Saving Kitchen Hack

Let’s be real: not everyone has a fully equipped kitchen. If you live in a small apartment, a dorm room, or are traveling in an RV, counter space is a premium. You might already use your air fryer daily, so why clutter up your stove with a pot just for rice? Cooking rice in the air fryer frees up your burners for other dishes. It’s a multitasking win.

Energy Efficiency and Simplicity

Air fryers are known for using less energy than traditional ovens or stovetops. When you cook rice in the air fryer, you’re using a single appliance instead of two. Plus, there’s no need to watch a pot or worry about water boiling over. Set it, forget it (for a bit), and come back to ready-to-eat rice. That’s the kind of low-maintenance cooking we all crave after a long day.

Great for Meal Prep and Batch Cooking

If you’re into meal prepping, you’ll love how easy it is to make a big batch of rice in your air fryer. Once you master the timing and water ratios, you can cook rice in 30–40 minutes and store it in containers for the week. No more waiting for the rice cooker to finish or babysitting a pot. And since air fryers circulate heat evenly, you’re less likely to get mushy or unevenly cooked rice—especially if you follow the right steps.

No Rice Cooker? No Problem

Not everyone owns a rice cooker. They can be pricey, bulky, and sometimes overkill if you only cook rice once in a while. Your air fryer, on the other hand, is likely already sitting on your counter, ready to go. Why not use what you already have? This method turns your air fryer into a versatile all-in-one appliance, capable of handling more than just fried foods.

What You’ll Need: Tools and Ingredients

Essential Equipment

You don’t need anything fancy. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Air fryer – Any model with a basket or tray will work. I’ve tested this with basket-style and oven-style air fryers, and both deliver great results.
• Heat-safe container – This is the key. You’ll need a small, oven-safe dish or bowl that fits inside your air fryer basket. A 1–2 quart ceramic casserole dish, heat-safe glass bowl, or even a small metal pot works well. Just make sure it’s not too tall—you need airflow around it.
• Lid or foil – To trap steam and help the rice cook evenly. A small plate or air fryer-safe silicone lid works, or you can use aluminum foil (tented to allow some steam escape).

Ingredients and Ratios

The secret to perfect air fryer rice starts with the right water-to-rice ratio. Here’s the basic formula:

• 1 cup rice (white, jasmine, basmati, or short-grain)
• 1.5 to 2 cups water – The exact amount depends on the rice type (see table below)
• Optional: 1 tsp butter or oil, a pinch of salt

Always rinse your rice before cooking—unless it’s pre-rinsed (check the package). Rinsing removes excess starch and prevents clumping. Just place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer, run cold water over it, and shake until the water runs clear.

Choosing the Right Rice Type

Not all rice behaves the same in the air fryer. Some absorb more water, others cook faster. Here’s a quick guide:

Rice Type	Water Ratio (per 1 cup rice)	Cooking Time (approx.)	Notes
White Rice (long grain)	1.5 cups	30–35 minutes	Fluffy and separate; ideal for stir-fries
Jasmine Rice	1.5 cups	30–35 minutes	Fragrant, slightly sticky; perfect for Thai dishes
Basmati Rice	1.75 cups	35–40 minutes	Long, fluffy grains; great for biryani
Short-Grain (sushi rice)	1.75 cups	35–40 minutes	Stickier texture; best for sushi or rice balls
Brown Rice	2 cups	40–45 minutes	Higher fiber, longer cook time; may need extra water

Stick to these ratios as a starting point. Adjust slightly based on your air fryer model and altitude (higher elevations may need more water).

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Rice in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Rinse and Measure

Start by rinsing 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial—it prevents gummy rice. Drain well and transfer to your heat-safe container.

Step 2: Add Water and Seasonings

Pour in the appropriate amount of water based on your rice type. Add a pinch of salt and, if you like, 1 teaspoon of butter or olive oil for flavor and to reduce sticking. Gently stir once—don’t overmix.

Step 3: Cover and Seal

Place a small plate, silicone lid, or a piece of aluminum foil over the container. If using foil, crimp the edges and poke a few small holes or leave it slightly tented to allow steam to escape. This prevents pressure buildup while keeping enough moisture inside.

Step 4: Preheat and Cook

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking from the start. Place the covered container in the air fryer basket, making sure it’s centered and not blocking airflow.

Cook for the recommended time based on your rice type (see table). For white or jasmine rice, start with 30 minutes. For brown rice, go for 40–45 minutes.

Step 5: Check and Rest

After the initial cook time, open the air fryer and carefully remove the lid or foil (watch out for steam!). Gently fluff the rice with a fork. If the rice is still a little hard or water remains, re-cover and cook for 5–10 more minutes.

Once done, let the rice sit, covered, for 5–10 minutes. This “resting” period allows the grains to absorb any leftover moisture and become perfectly fluffy.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

After resting, fluff the rice again with a fork. You should have light, separate grains—no clumps. Serve immediately with your favorite dishes.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t peek too early – Opening the air fryer too soon releases steam and can lead to undercooked rice.
• Use a timer – It’s easy to forget once the rice is in. Set a reminder for the halfway point to check on it.
• Adjust for altitude – If you’re above 3,000 feet, you may need to add 1–2 tablespoons more water and extend cook time slightly.
• Double the batch? Be cautious – You can cook 2 cups of rice, but make sure your container fits and the air fryer has enough room for heat circulation. Cooking time may increase by 5–10 minutes.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Using the Wrong Container

One of the biggest mistakes people make is using a container that’s too large, too tall, or not heat-safe. A container that blocks airflow or touches the heating element can cause uneven cooking or even damage your air fryer. Always use a shallow, wide dish that fits snugly in the basket with at least an inch of clearance on all sides.

Skipping the Rinse

Unrinsed rice contains surface starch that makes it sticky and gummy. Even if the package says “pre-rinsed,” I still recommend a quick rinse—it makes a noticeable difference in texture.

Incorrect Water Ratios

Too much water leads to mushy rice. Too little results in hard, undercooked grains. Stick to the ratios in the table above. If you’re unsure, start on the lower end and add more water only if needed during cooking.

Not Covering the Rice

Without a lid or foil, the water will evaporate too quickly, and the rice will cook unevenly. The cover traps steam, which is essential for proper gelatinization of the starch. Don’t skip this step!

Overcooking or Undercooking

Air fryers vary in power and heat distribution. What works in one model might not in another. Always check the rice a few minutes before the recommended time. If it looks done, stop. If it’s still hard, give it more time in 5-minute increments.

Forgetting to Rest

Just like with a rice cooker, resting is key. It allows the rice to finish cooking in its own steam and improves texture. Skipping this step can leave you with slightly crunchy or waterlogged rice.

Beyond Plain Rice: Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

Infused Rice for Extra Flavor

Why stop at plain rice? The air fryer is perfect for infusing flavors right into the grains. Try these easy add-ins:

• Broth instead of water – Use chicken, vegetable, or beef broth for richer flavor.
• Coconut milk – Replace 1/2 cup of water with full-fat coconut milk for Thai-inspired rice. Delicious with curries.
• Spices – Add a bay leaf, a cinnamon stick, or a few cardamom pods to the water for aromatic rice.
• Citrus zest – A strip of lemon or orange zest adds a bright, fresh note.

One-Pot Rice Dishes

Take it a step further and make complete meals in your air fryer. Try:

• Chicken and Rice – Add diced chicken, peas, carrots, and soy sauce to the rice before cooking. Use chicken broth and increase water slightly to account for the veggies.
• Mexican Rice – Sauté onion and garlic in a little oil, then mix with rice, diced tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin. Add water and cook as usual.
• Vegetable Rice Pilaf – Stir in frozen mixed vegetables, herbs, and a splash of olive oil. Top with toasted almonds after cooking.

Sweet Rice Treats

Yes, you can even make dessert rice in the air fryer! Try:

• Sticky Rice with Mango – Use glutinous rice, coconut milk, and a bit of sugar. Serve with fresh mango and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
• Apple Cinnamon Rice Pudding – Mix rice with milk, diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook and stir in egg yolk at the end for creaminess (after removing from heat).

Is It Worth It? Pros and Cons of Air Fryer Rice

The Pros

• Convenience – Frees up your stove and uses one appliance for multiple tasks.
• Consistent results – When done right, the rice is fluffy and evenly cooked.
• Great for small kitchens – Ideal for tiny homes, dorms, or RVs.
• Energy efficient – Uses less power than a stovetop or oven.
• Easy cleanup – Just one container to wash (and your air fryer basket stays clean).

The Cons

• Not ideal for large batches – Limited container size means you can’t cook more than 2 cups at once without overcrowding.
• Requires a heat-safe container – If you don’t already have one, it’s an extra purchase.
• Learning curve – First few attempts might not be perfect. It takes a few tries to get the timing and ratios right.
• No “keep warm” function – Unlike rice cookers, the air fryer doesn’t keep rice warm after cooking. Serve immediately or reheat later.

For most people, the pros outweigh the cons—especially if you’re already invested in air fryer cooking. It’s a clever hack that expands your kitchen’s capabilities without buying more gadgets.

Final Thoughts: Should You Try Cooking Rice in the Air Fryer?

So, can you cook rice in the air fryer? Absolutely—and it’s easier than you think. With the right container, proper water ratios, and a little patience, you can turn your air fryer into a rice-cooking powerhouse. It’s not going to replace your rice cooker if you cook rice multiple times a day, but for occasional use, space-saving needs, or when you’re already using the air fryer for other dishes, it’s a fantastic alternative.

I’ve used this method for everything from weeknight stir-fries to holiday sides, and it’s never let me down. The texture is consistently fluffy, the cleanup is minimal, and I love not having to monitor a pot on the stove. Plus, it’s just plain fun to see how versatile this little appliance can be.

Next time you’re making a stir-fry, curry, or even a rice bowl, give it a try. Start with white or jasmine rice—they’re the most forgiving—and follow the steps I’ve shared. Adjust as needed, and don’t be discouraged if your first batch isn’t perfect. Like any cooking method, it gets easier with practice.

At the end of the day, cooking should be enjoyable, not stressful. If your air fryer can help you make a great side dish with less effort and fewer dishes, that’s a win in my book. So go ahead—grab that heat-safe bowl, rinse your rice, and discover how easy it is to cook rice in the air fryer. You might just find yourself doing it more often than you expected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook rice in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook rice in the air fryer using a heat-safe dish or silicone container. It’s a convenient alternative to stovetop cooking, especially for small batches.

What’s the best way to cook rice in an air fryer?

Use a 1:1.5 rice-to-water ratio, cover the container with foil, and cook at 320°F (160°C) for 20–25 minutes. Stir halfway through for even cooking.

Do you need a special container to cook rice in the air fryer?

Yes, use an oven-safe dish, silicone mold, or parchment-lined pan that fits inside your air fryer basket. Avoid plastic or non-heat-resistant materials.

Can you cook white and brown rice in the air fryer?

Absolutely—white rice cooks faster (20 mins), while brown rice may need 30–35 minutes at the same temperature. Adjust water ratios slightly for brown rice (1:2).

How does air fryer rice compare to stovetop rice?

Air fryer rice is just as fluffy but requires less monitoring. The air fryer’s dry heat can make edges slightly crispier, so stir well for uniform texture.

Can you meal prep rice in the air fryer?

Yes! Cook a batch, cool quickly, and store in airtight containers for up to 4 days. The air fryer’s compact size is perfect for small-batch prepping.