Can You Make Chips in an Air Fryer The Ultimate Guide

Yes, you can make crispy, delicious chips in an air fryer—without the guilt of deep frying. With minimal oil and rapid hot air circulation, air fryers deliver golden, evenly cooked chips in under 20 minutes. It’s the ultimate hack for fast, healthier homemade fries with maximum crunch and flavor.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can make chips in an air fryer with crispy results.
• Use minimal oil for healthier, evenly cooked chips every time.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure consistent crispiness and texture.
• Cut potatoes uniformly for even cooking and perfect chip doneness.
• Shake the basket halfway through to prevent sticking and boost crispness.
• Experiment with seasonings post-cook for maximum flavor and crunch.

Can You Make Chips in an Air Fryer? The Ultimate Guide

Let’s be honest: few things beat the smell of freshly fried chips wafting through the kitchen. Crispy on the outside, fluffy within, and perfectly golden—it’s comfort food at its finest. But here’s the catch: traditional deep-frying can be messy, time-consuming, and, let’s face it, not the healthiest option. That’s where the air fryer comes in. You’ve probably heard about this kitchen gadget that promises crispy, golden results with little to no oil. But can you make chips in an air fryer? Spoiler alert: yes, absolutely. But it’s not quite as simple as tossing in some potatoes and pressing a button. I’ve spent years testing air fryer chips—some came out perfect, others… well, let’s just say I learned the hard way. So, whether you’re a seasoned air fryer pro or just unboxing your first one, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make air fryer chips that rival your favorite takeout—without the guilt.

When I first tried making chips in my air fryer, I was skeptical. I mean, how could something with so little oil even come close to deep-fried perfection? But after a few trial runs, I was hooked. Not only were the results delicious, but the cleanup was a breeze, and I didn’t have to deal with hot oil splatters or lingering greasy smells. Over time, I’ve experimented with different potatoes, cuts, oils, and seasonings to figure out what really works. And now, I’m sharing it all with you—because everyone deserves to enjoy crispy, homemade chips without the hassle. So, let’s dive in and answer the burning question: can you make chips in an air fryer, and if so, how do you do it right?

How Air Fryers Work and Why They’re Great for Chips

The Science Behind the Crisp

To understand why air fryers work so well for chips, you need to know how they operate. An air fryer isn’t actually a fryer at all—it’s a compact convection oven. It uses a powerful fan to circulate hot air around the food at high speed, creating a crispy outer layer through a process called the Maillard reaction. This is the same reaction that happens when you sear meat or toast bread, giving food that golden-brown, flavorful crust.

Unlike deep frying, where the food is submerged in oil, air fryers rely on a small amount of oil (usually a teaspoon or two) and rapid air circulation. This means you get that satisfying crunch with up to 75% less fat. For chips, this is a game-changer. The hot air quickly removes moisture from the surface of the potato, creating a crispy exterior while the inside stays fluffy and tender. It’s like having your cake and eating it too—crispy, delicious chips without the guilt.

Why Air Fryers Beat the Alternatives

Sure, you could bake chips in a conventional oven, but that often takes longer and doesn’t deliver the same crunch. Deep frying, while delicious, comes with drawbacks: messy oil disposal, safety risks, and a much higher calorie count. The air fryer strikes the perfect balance. It’s faster than baking (usually 15–20 minutes), safer than deep frying, and produces results that are remarkably close to traditional fried chips.

Plus, air fryers are versatile. You can use them for everything from frozen chips to sweet potato fries, and even experiment with different cuts—like wedges, steak fries, or curly fries. And because they’re compact, they’re ideal for small kitchens or anyone who wants to avoid turning on a hot oven in the summer. So, if you’re wondering, “Can you make chips in an air fryer?” the answer is a resounding yes—and it’s probably better than you think.

Choosing the Right Potatoes for Air Fryer Chips

Best Potato Types for Crispy Chips

Not all potatoes are created equal when it comes to making chips. The key is starch content. High-starch potatoes, like Russets or Idaho, are ideal because they crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Their low moisture content means they brown quickly, giving you that golden exterior without becoming soggy.

Medium-starch potatoes, like Yukon Golds, are a solid second choice. They’re a bit more waxy, so they hold their shape better and have a creamier interior. They won’t crisp quite as much as Russets, but they’re still delicious and work well if you prefer a slightly softer chip.

Avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes for traditional chips. They’re great for salads or roasting, but their high moisture content makes them prone to steaming rather than crisping in the air fryer. That said, if you’re making potato wedges or thick-cut chips, waxy potatoes can work—just don’t expect the same crunch.

Fresh vs. Frozen: What Works Best?

Fresh potatoes give you the most control over texture and flavor. You can slice them to your preferred thickness, soak them to remove excess starch, and season them exactly how you like. But let’s be real: not everyone has time to prep potatoes from scratch. That’s where frozen chips come in.

Frozen chips are a fantastic shortcut. Most are pre-cut and par-fried, which means they’re already partially cooked. In the air fryer, they crisp up beautifully with minimal effort. I’ve had great results with brands like Alexia and Ore-Ida. Just toss them in the basket, add a little oil (optional), and cook according to the package instructions. They’re perfect for a quick snack or side dish.

One tip: if you’re using frozen chips, don’t thaw them first. Cooking them straight from the freezer helps them crisp up better. And if you’re feeling fancy, you can even make your own frozen chips by prepping and freezing fresh-cut potatoes. Just blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes, dry thoroughly, and freeze in a single layer. They’ll cook up just like store-bought—only fresher.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Air Fryer Chips

Prepping the Potatoes

The secret to great air fryer chips starts with prep. First, wash and peel your potatoes (or leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients—your call). Then, cut them into your preferred shape: thin fries for crispy chips, thicker cuts for steak fries, or wedges for a rustic vibe. Consistency is key here. If your chips are different sizes, they’ll cook unevenly—some will burn while others stay raw.

Next, soak the potato pieces in cold water for 30 minutes to an hour. This removes excess starch, which can cause the chips to stick together or become gummy. After soaking, drain and pat them completely dry with a clean towel or paper towels. Any moisture left on the surface will steam the potatoes instead of crisping them—and nobody wants soggy chips.

Seasoning and Oil: Less Is More

For the best results, use just a teaspoon or two of oil. I prefer olive oil or avocado oil, but any neutral oil will work. Toss the dried potatoes with the oil and your favorite seasonings—salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, or even a pinch of cayenne for heat. Pro tip: add the salt after cooking. Salt draws out moisture, which can make the chips less crispy during cooking.

If you’re going for extra crispiness, you can also try a light spritz of cooking spray instead of oil. It distributes more evenly and uses even less fat. Just be careful not to overdo it—too much spray can leave a residue on the air fryer basket.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) if it has a preheat function. This ensures the chips start cooking immediately and crisp up faster. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the basket—don’t overcrowd them. Overlapping chips will steam instead of crisp, and you’ll end up with a mushy mess.

Cook for 10 minutes, then shake the basket or flip the chips with tongs. This ensures even browning. Cook for another 5–10 minutes, checking frequently toward the end. The total time will depend on the thickness of your chips and your air fryer model, but most batches take 15–20 minutes.

When the chips are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the basket immediately to prevent overcooking. Season with salt and any additional toppings (like fresh herbs or grated Parmesan) right away. Serve hot and enjoy!

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 mistake people make. Air fryers need space for air to circulate. If you pile in too many chips, they’ll steam instead of crisp. I learned this the hard way when I tried to cook a huge batch for a party—half were perfect, and the other half were limp and sad. Now, I cook in batches, even if it takes a little longer. Trust me, it’s worth it.

A good rule of thumb: the chips should fill the basket but not touch each other. If they’re overlapping, you’ve got too many. And if you’re cooking for a crowd, consider using multiple air fryers or cooking in shifts. Your guests will thank you.

Skipping the Soak and Dry

Soaking and drying might seem like extra steps, but they’re non-negotiable for crispy chips. Skipping them means your chips will stick together, cook unevenly, and lack that satisfying crunch. I’ve tried skipping the soak a few times (in the name of efficiency), and the results were always disappointing.

Pro tip: if you’re short on time, you can reduce the soak time to 15 minutes—but don’t skip it entirely. And always, always dry the potatoes thoroughly. A damp towel or paper towels are your best friends here.

Using Too Much Oil

It’s tempting to douse your chips in oil for extra crispiness, but this backfires. Too much oil can cause the chips to become greasy instead of crispy, and it can also smoke in the air fryer, leaving a lingering odor. Stick to a teaspoon or two—or use a cooking spray for even less fat.

If you’re using frozen chips, you might not need any oil at all. Many are already lightly coated, and the air fryer’s high heat will crisp them up just fine.

Creative Variations and Flavor Ideas

Beyond the Basics: Sweet Potato, Zucchini, and More

Why stop at regular potatoes? Air fryers are perfect for making chips from all kinds of veggies. Sweet potatoes are a fan favorite—they’re slightly sweeter and crisp up beautifully. Just slice them thin (about 1/4 inch) and follow the same steps as for regular potatoes. You can even mix sweet potato and regular potato chips for a colorful, flavorful combo.

Zucchini and yellow squash also work well. Slice them into sticks, soak and dry them, and toss with oil and seasonings. They’ll be tender-crisp with a slightly nutty flavor. And don’t forget about carrots, parsnips, or even green beans—they all make delicious, healthy alternatives to traditional chips.

Global Flavors and Seasoning Blends

One of the best things about air fryer chips is how customizable they are. Want a taste of the Mediterranean? Toss your chips with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of lemon zest. Craving something spicy? Try chili powder, cumin, and a dash of smoked paprika.

For a Japanese twist, sprinkle your chips with nori flakes and a little wasabi powder. Or go for a classic British chip shop vibe with vinegar and salt. The possibilities are endless—and experimenting is half the fun. I’ve even made “loaded” chips by topping them with shredded cheese, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream after cooking. It’s like a loaded baked potato, but crunchier.

Dips and Toppings

No chip is complete without a dip. Aioli, ranch, ketchup, or even a spicy sriracha mayo are all great choices. For a healthier option, try hummus or guacamole. And if you’re feeling fancy, drizzle your chips with truffle oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

One of my favorite combos? Sweet potato chips with a cinnamon-sugar seasoning and a side of Greek yogurt dip. It’s sweet, savory, and totally addictive.

Air Fryer Chip Comparison: Fresh vs. Frozen vs. Oven

To help you decide which method works best for your needs, here’s a quick comparison of fresh-cut, frozen, and oven-baked chips:

Method	Prep Time	Cooking Time	Crispiness	Oil Needed	Best For
Fresh-cut (air fryer)	30–45 min (soak + dry)	15–20 min	Very crispy	1–2 tsp	Custom flavors, best texture
Frozen (air fryer)	2–3 min	12–15 min	Crispy (slightly less than fresh)	Optional	Quick meals, convenience
Oven-baked	10–15 min	25–30 min	Moderate crispiness	1–2 tbsp	Large batches, no air fryer

As you can see, air fryer chips—whether fresh or frozen—offer the best balance of speed, crispiness, and convenience. They’re faster than oven-baked chips, crispier than most frozen options, and much healthier than deep-fried.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Make Chips in an Air Fryer!

So, can you make chips in an air fryer? Absolutely—and with the right techniques, they’ll be some of the best chips you’ve ever tasted. Whether you’re using fresh potatoes, frozen fries, or experimenting with sweet potatoes and other veggies, the air fryer delivers crispy, golden results with minimal effort and cleanup.

The key is understanding how the air fryer works: hot air circulation, not oil, creates the crispiness. That means proper prep (soaking, drying, and not overcrowding) is essential. And while air fryer chips might not be exactly like deep-fried, they’re darn close—and far healthier.

Over the years, I’ve made air fryer chips for family dinners, game nights, and even as a quick snack after a long day. They’ve never failed to impress. And the best part? I don’t have to deal with hot oil, greasy pans, or the lingering smell of frying. It’s a win-win.

So, if you’ve been on the fence about trying air fryer chips, now’s the time to dive in. Start with a simple batch of Russet fries, follow the steps in this guide, and tweak the seasonings to your taste. You’ll be amazed at how easy—and delicious—it is. And who knows? You might just discover your new favorite way to make chips. Happy frying (or should I say, air frying)!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make chips in an air fryer?

Yes, you can make crispy, delicious chips in an air fryer with minimal oil. The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation cooks them evenly, delivering a texture similar to deep-fried chips but with fewer calories.

How do you make homemade chips in an air fryer?

Slice potatoes or sweet potatoes into thin strips, toss with 1-2 teaspoons of oil and seasonings, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. No preheating is required for most models.

Are air fryer chips healthier than deep-fried chips?

Absolutely. Air fryer chips use up to 80% less oil than traditional deep frying, significantly reducing fat and calorie content while maintaining a satisfying crunch.

What type of potatoes work best for air fryer chips?

Starchy varieties like russet or Yukon Gold are ideal for air fryer chips because they crisp up well. Soaking slices in cold water for 30 minutes first removes excess starch for better texture.

Can you make frozen chips in an air fryer?

Yes, frozen chips cook perfectly in an air fryer. Skip thawing—toss them with a little oil and air fry at 400°F (205°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket once for even browning.

How do you keep air fryer chips from sticking?

Lightly coat the air fryer basket with oil or use parchment paper liners. Avoid overcrowding the basket and flip the chips halfway through cooking to ensure they crisp evenly without sticking.