Can You Make Rice in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide to Perfect Results

Yes, you can make rice in the air fryer—and it’s a game-changer for quick, fluffy results without a stovetop. With the right water-to-rice ratio and timing, your air fryer delivers perfectly cooked rice in under 30 minutes, freeing up kitchen space and minimizing cleanup.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook rice in an air fryer with the right method.
• Use a heat-safe dish to prevent spills and ensure even cooking.
• Pre-soak rice for 20 minutes to achieve fluffy, tender results.
• Maintain a 1:1.5 ratio of rice to water for perfect texture.
• Cook at 360°F (182°C) for 15–20 minutes, checking doneness early.
• Let it steam off-heat for 5 minutes to finish cooking evenly.

Can You Make Rice in the Air Fryer? A Quick Guide to Perfect Results

Imagine this: you’re juggling a busy weeknight dinner, trying to get a healthy meal on the table, and your stovetop rice keeps turning out mushy or worse—burnt. Sound familiar? We’ve all been there. Now, what if I told you that your air fryer might just be the unexpected hero in your kitchen? Yes, that same appliance you use for crispy chicken wings or reheating fries could also cook perfect rice—fluffy, tender, and without the constant stirring or monitoring.

When I first heard about making rice in an air fryer, I was skeptical. Rice needs water, heat, and time—three things that don’t immediately align with the rapid, hot air circulation of an air fryer. But after a few experiments (and yes, a couple of failed batches), I discovered that with the right method, you can absolutely make rice in an air fryer. It’s not just a kitchen hack; it’s a game-changer for anyone who wants to free up their stove, reduce cleanup, or simply try something new. Whether you’re cooking white rice, brown rice, or even a quick batch of jasmine rice, the air fryer can deliver surprisingly good results—if you know how to do it right.

Why Consider Cooking Rice in an Air Fryer?

You might be wondering: why bother with the air fryer when the stovetop, rice cooker, or instant pot already work fine? The truth is, each method has its trade-offs. Let’s explore why the air fryer deserves a spot in your rice-cooking rotation.

1. Free Up Your Stovetop

On busy nights, stove space is a premium. If you’re sautéing vegetables, simmering a sauce, or searing protein, dedicating a burner to rice can be a hassle. Cooking rice in the air fryer frees up your stovetop, letting you multitask efficiently. I’ve used this trick during holiday dinners when every burner was full—no more last-minute scrambling to find space.

2. Less Cleanup, Fewer Dishes

Traditional stovetop rice often sticks to the pot, requiring scrubbing. With the air fryer, you can use a heat-safe dish or silicone container that’s easy to clean. Many air fryer models come with nonstick baskets or trays, and even if you use a glass or ceramic dish, cleanup is usually a quick rinse or a trip through the dishwasher. For someone who hates doing dishes (guilty as charged), this is a big win.

3. Consistent Heat Distribution

Air fryers circulate hot air evenly, which can help prevent hot spots that lead to burnt or undercooked rice. Unlike a stovetop, where the heat source is concentrated at the bottom, the air fryer surrounds the rice container with consistent warmth. This means fewer surprises and more reliable results—especially helpful for beginners.

4. Energy Efficiency and Small Kitchen Friendly

If you’re cooking for one or two people, firing up a large pot of water on the stove feels wasteful. The air fryer uses less energy and heats up faster, making it ideal for small portions. Plus, if you live in a small apartment or a tiny kitchen, the air fryer’s compact size and versatility make it a smart choice.

Real Talk: The air fryer won’t replace your rice cooker if you’re cooking 4+ cups at once. But for 1–2 cups? It’s a surprisingly efficient alternative.

The Science Behind Air Fryer Rice: How It Actually Works

Before we dive into the step-by-step method, let’s break down the science. Rice needs two things to cook properly: heat and moisture. The air fryer provides the heat, but how does it manage the moisture? Here’s the key: you’re not relying on steam alone. Instead, you’re using a sealed or covered environment to trap steam while the hot air circulates around the container.

Steam vs. Air Circulation

On the stovetop, rice simmers in water, and the lid traps steam to cook the grains evenly. In the air fryer, the container must be covered (with a lid, foil, or even a heat-safe plate) to prevent the water from evaporating too quickly. The hot air doesn’t directly “fry” the rice—it heats the container, which then transfers heat to the water and rice, creating steam from within.

Why the Container Matters

The type of dish you use is crucial. You need something that:

• Fits inside your air fryer basket or tray
• Can withstand high heat (glass, ceramic, or food-grade silicone are ideal)
• Has a lid or can be covered to trap steam

I’ve had success with small glass casserole dishes, silicone baking molds, and even oven-safe stainless steel bowls. Avoid plastic or anything that might warp or leach chemicals under heat.

Water-to-Rice Ratio Adjustments

Here’s where things get interesting. Because the air fryer environment is drier than a stovetop, you might need to adjust your water ratio slightly. For white rice, the standard 1:1.5 (rice to water) ratio works, but some people find 1:1.75 gives fluffier results. For brown rice, which takes longer to cook, 1:2 is a safer bet. More on this in the next section.

Pro Tip: Always rinse your rice first. This removes excess starch, which can lead to gummy or clumpy rice. A quick rinse under cold water until the water runs clear is all it takes.

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

Ready to give it a try? Follow this simple method for foolproof air fryer rice. I’ve tested it with white, brown, jasmine, and basmati rice—here’s what works best.

1. Gather Your Tools and Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked rice (white, brown, jasmine, basmati, etc.)
• 1.5–2 cups water (depending on rice type)
• 1 tsp salt (optional)
• 1 tsp oil or butter (optional, for fluffiness)
• Heat-safe dish with lid (or aluminum foil)

2. Rinse and Prep the Rice

Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Shake off excess water. This step is non-negotiable—it prevents stickiness and ensures even cooking.

3. Combine Ingredients in the Dish

Transfer the rinsed rice to your air fryer-safe dish. Add water, salt, and oil (if using). Stir gently to combine. The water level should sit about 1 inch above the rice for white rice, and 1.5 inches for brown rice.

4. Cover the Dish

This is critical. Use a tight-fitting lid, or cover the dish with aluminum foil, crimping the edges to seal. Without a cover, the water will evaporate too fast, leaving you with crunchy, undercooked rice.

5. Preheat the Air Fryer (Optional but Recommended)

Preheat to 360°F (182°C) for 3–5 minutes. This helps the rice start cooking evenly from the moment you place it in.

6. Cook the Rice

Place the covered dish in the air fryer basket. Cook at 360°F for:

• White rice: 25–30 minutes
• Brown rice: 35–40 minutes
• Jasmine or basmati: 28–32 minutes

After the time is up, let the rice sit, covered, for 5–10 minutes. This “resting” period allows the steam to finish cooking the grains and improves fluffiness.

7. Fluff and Serve

Remove the dish (it’ll be hot!), take off the cover (watch for steam!), and fluff with a fork. If the rice seems dry, add a splash of hot water and stir. Serve immediately.

My Experience: The first time I tried this, I forgot to cover the dish. The rice was half-cooked and half-crispy. Lesson learned: cover it!

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with a simple method, things can go wrong. Here are the top mistakes I’ve made (and how to fix them).

Mistake 1: Not Covering the Dish

As mentioned, this is the #1 cause of failure. The air fryer’s dry heat will suck moisture out of your rice if it’s exposed. Always cover the dish with a lid or foil. If your dish doesn’t have a lid, use a heat-safe plate or even a layer of parchment paper under the foil for extra protection.

Mistake 2: Overcrowding or Using the Wrong Dish Size

If your dish is too big, the rice will cook unevenly. If it’s too small, the water might bubble over. Use a dish that allows about 1–2 inches of space around the sides. For a 1-cup batch, a 6-inch round dish is perfect. For 2 cups, go up to 8 inches.

Mistake 3: Not Adjusting Water for Rice Type

Brown rice has a tougher bran layer and needs more water and time. White rice cooks faster. Don’t use the same ratio for both. When in doubt, err on the side of slightly more water—you can always fluff out excess moisture.

Mistake 4: Peeking Too Early

It’s tempting to open the air fryer and check on your rice, but this releases steam and disrupts the cooking process. Set a timer and resist the urge to peek until the last 5 minutes.

Mistake 5: Forgetting to Rest the Rice

Just like with pasta, resting allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and become fluffier. Skipping this step can leave you with slightly undercooked grains.

Bonus Tip: If your rice is too wet after cooking, return it to the air fryer uncovered for 3–5 minutes to evaporate excess moisture. If it’s too dry, add a splash of hot water, re-cover, and let it sit for 2 minutes.

Flavor Variations and Recipe Ideas

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative. The air fryer is perfect for infusing flavors into your rice without extra pots or pans.

1. Coconut Rice

Replace half the water with canned coconut milk. Add a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime juice. The result is creamy, fragrant rice that pairs perfectly with Thai or Indian dishes.

2. Lemon Herb Rice

Add the zest of one lemon, a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or cilantro), and a teaspoon of olive oil to the water. The citrus brightens the flavor, and the herbs add freshness.

3. Turmeric and Ginger Rice

Mix 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1/2 tsp grated fresh ginger, and a pinch of black pepper into the water. This golden rice has anti-inflammatory benefits and a warm, earthy flavor.

4. Mexican-Style Rice

Add 1/4 cup tomato sauce, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp chili powder, and a clove of minced garlic to the water. Stir in a handful of frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a complete side dish.

5. One-Pot Rice and Beans

For a protein-packed meal, add 1/2 cup rinsed black beans or chickpeas to the rice before cooking. The beans cook right in the same dish, absorbing the flavors. Top with avocado and salsa for a quick vegetarian bowl.

My Favorite Combo: I love making jasmine rice with a splash of soy sauce, a teaspoon of sesame oil, and a few slices of green onion. It’s like takeout, but healthier and faster.

Data Table: Rice Cooking Times and Ratios in the Air Fryer

Rice Type	Uncooked Rice (cups)	Water (cups)	Cooking Time (min)	Rest Time (min)	Notes
White Rice (long grain)	1	1.5	25–30	5–10	Rinse well. Use 1:1.75 for fluffier results.
Brown Rice	1	2	35–40	10	Soak for 30 min to reduce time (optional).
Jasmine Rice	1	1.5	28–32	5–10	Fragrant and slightly sticky. Great for Asian dishes.
Basmati Rice	1	1.75	28–32	5–10	Long grains. Soak for 20 min before cooking.
Wild Rice Blend	1	2.25	40–45	10	Cooks slower. Check at 40 min for doneness.

Note: Times may vary depending on your air fryer model (basket vs. oven style) and altitude. Always check for doneness: rice should be tender, and water should be fully absorbed.

Final Thoughts: Is Air Fryer Rice Worth It?

So, can you make rice in the air fryer? Absolutely. Is it the best method for every situation? Not necessarily. But for small batches, busy weeknights, or when you’re short on stove space, it’s a surprisingly effective tool.

After dozens of trials, I’ve found that air fryer rice is fluffier, more consistent, and less fussy than stovetop rice—especially when I’m distracted by other cooking tasks. The key is understanding the method: cover the dish, use the right water ratio, and let it rest. Once you’ve got that down, the possibilities are endless. From plain white rice to flavored one-pot meals, your air fryer can handle it all.

That said, it’s not perfect. Brown rice takes longer, and large batches aren’t practical. But for 1–2 cups of rice—the amount most home cooks need—it’s a game-changer. Plus, it’s fun to experiment. Try different grains, flavors, and techniques. You might discover your new go-to method.

At the end of the day, the air fryer is more than just a crisping machine. It’s a versatile kitchen companion that can simplify your cooking, reduce cleanup, and even teach you a thing or two about heat and moisture. So go ahead—toss that rice in the air fryer, set the timer, and enjoy a perfectly cooked side dish with minimal effort. Your future self (and your hungry family) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make rice in the air fryer?

Yes, you can make rice in the air fryer! It’s a convenient, hands-off method that yields fluffy rice when done correctly. Just ensure you use the right water-to-rice ratio and a suitable container.

What type of rice works best for air fryer rice?

Long-grain white rice, jasmine, or basmati work best for air fryer rice due to their lower starch content. Avoid short-grain or sticky rice varieties, as they may clump or burn.

How much water do you need to make rice in an air fryer?

For most white rice, use a 1:1.25 ratio of rice to water (e.g., 1 cup rice to 1.25 cups water). Adjust slightly based on your air fryer model and rice type for perfect results.

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

Yes, use an oven-safe dish or a heat-resistant silicone mold that fits your air fryer basket. A lid or foil helps trap steam, ensuring even cooking and fluffy air fryer rice.

How long does it take to cook rice in the air fryer?

Most white rice takes 25–35 minutes at 320°F (160°C) in the air fryer. Brown rice may require 40–45 minutes. Check for tenderness and adjust time if needed.

Can you reheat leftover rice in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Reheat rice in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes, fluffing halfway. This method revives texture better than microwaving and avoids sogginess.