Can You Cook Rice in Air Fryer Discover the Easy Method

Yes, you can cook rice in an air fryer—it’s a quick, hands-off method that delivers perfectly fluffy results with minimal effort. Using a covered, oven-safe dish, rice is steamed using precise timing and the right water ratio, making the air fryer a surprisingly versatile kitchen tool.

Key Takeaways

• Cook rice in air fryer: Yes, with proper water ratio and timing.
• Use 1:1.5 rice-to-water: Ensures perfect texture without sogginess.
• Pre-soak rice: 20 minutes boosts fluffiness and cuts cooking time.
• Stir halfway: Promotes even cooking and prevents clumping.
• Check doneness early: Adjust time based on your air fryer model.
• Fluff immediately: Releases steam for non-sticky, restaurant-quality rice.

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

Let’s be real—cooking rice can be a hit or a miss. Sometimes it turns out fluffy and perfect, but other times? Sticky, mushy, or worse—burnt to the bottom of the pot. If you’re like me, you’ve probably stood over the stove, stirring, adjusting the heat, and praying to the rice gods for mercy. And if you’re short on time, juggling a busy schedule, or just trying to reduce your kitchen cleanup, you’ve probably asked yourself: Can you cook rice in an air fryer?

The short answer? Yes, you can. And honestly, it might just change the way you think about rice. I was skeptical at first—how could a machine that fries chicken nuggets and reheats leftovers possibly handle something as delicate as rice? But after a few experiments (and a few kitchen mishaps), I discovered a surprisingly simple, hands-off method that delivers consistent results. Whether you’re cooking for one, prepping meals for the week, or just trying to use your air fryer to its full potential, this method is worth a try. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know—from the science behind it to step-by-step instructions, tips, and even troubleshooting for when things don’t go as planned.

Why Use an Air Fryer to Cook Rice?

Convenience and Hands-Off Cooking

One of the biggest perks of cooking rice in an air fryer is how little attention it needs. Unlike stovetop rice, which demands constant monitoring and heat adjustments, air fryer rice is mostly hands-off. You set the time, walk away, and come back to perfectly cooked grains. No stirring, no checking, no risk of boiling over. This is a game-changer for busy mornings, multitasking during dinner prep, or anyone who just wants to minimize kitchen stress.

Think about it: you can start your rice in the air fryer, then chop veggies, marinate chicken, or set the table without worrying about your rice turning into a gluey mess. It’s like having a second pair of hands in the kitchen. Plus, if you’re meal prepping, you can cook a big batch of rice at the same time as roasting veggies or cooking proteins in separate air fryer baskets—maximizing efficiency.

Energy Efficiency and Space-Saving

Air fryers use less energy than stovetops or ovens, especially for small to medium batches. They heat up quickly and retain heat efficiently, which means faster cooking and lower electricity bills. If you’re cooking for one or two people, using a small air fryer instead of firing up a big pot on the stove is a no-brainer. It’s also a great option for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or RVs where counter space is limited.

And let’s not forget the cleanup. Instead of scrubbing a sticky pot or dealing with rice stuck to the bottom, you’re just cleaning a heat-safe container—usually a small metal or ceramic bowl. Most of these are dishwasher-safe, making post-cooking cleanup a breeze.

Versatility Beyond Just White Rice

While white rice is the easiest to cook in an air fryer, the method works for many other types too. Brown rice, jasmine, basmati, wild rice, and even short-grain sushi rice can all be cooked with slight adjustments. You can even mix in ingredients like garlic, herbs, or broth for extra flavor—something that’s harder to do without burning when cooking on the stovetop.

For example, I once cooked jasmine rice with a splash of coconut milk and a cinnamon stick—just tossed it all in the bowl, sealed it with foil, and let the air fryer do the rest. The result? Fragrant, subtly sweet rice that paired perfectly with grilled salmon. The possibilities are endless, and the air fryer makes it easy to experiment.

What You’ll Need: Tools and Ingredients

Essential Tools

Before you start, make sure you have the right tools. Not every air fryer is the same, and not every container works. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Air fryer with a large enough basket: Most standard air fryers (4–6 quarts) work well, but make sure your heat-safe bowl fits inside with some room for air circulation. I use a 5.8-quart model, and a 3-cup metal bowl fits perfectly.
• Heat-safe bowl or container: Metal, ceramic, or oven-safe glass bowls work best. Avoid plastic or containers with plastic lids—they can melt. I recommend a small stainless steel or enamel-coated bowl with a tight-fitting lid or foil.
• Aluminum foil or a silicone lid: This creates a steam chamber, which is crucial for even cooking. Foil is cheap and effective, but a reusable silicone lid is more eco-friendly.
• Measuring cup: For precise rice and water ratios. I use a standard 1-cup dry measure for both rice and liquid.

Ingredients

The ingredients are simple—just rice and liquid. But the type and ratio matter.

• Rice: Start with long-grain white rice (like basmati or jasmine). It’s the most forgiving and cooks evenly. Brown rice and other varieties work too, but may need more water and time.
• Water or broth: Use filtered water or your favorite broth for extra flavor. The ratio depends on the rice type (more on that later).
• Optional extras: A pinch of salt, a teaspoon of oil or butter, or flavorings like garlic, ginger, or herbs. These go in before cooking and infuse the rice as it steams.

Pro Tip: The Right Bowl Matters

I learned this the hard way. My first attempt used a plastic container—it warped and smelled terrible. Then I tried a ceramic bowl without a lid—the rice dried out. The sweet spot? A small metal bowl with foil tightly sealed. The metal conducts heat evenly, and the foil traps steam perfectly. If you don’t have a small metal bowl, a heat-safe glass Pyrex container works too, but make sure it’s oven-safe (not all glass is).

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

Step 1: Measure and Rinse the Rice

Start by measuring your rice. For white rice, a good rule of thumb is 1 cup rice to 1.5 cups water. For brown rice, use 1 cup rice to 2 cups water. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear—this removes excess starch and prevents clumping. I usually rinse for about 30 seconds, swirling the grains with my fingers. Then drain well.

Why rinse? Unrinsed rice can be gummy or sticky, especially in an air fryer where steam builds up quickly. Rinsing gives you that fluffy, separate-grain texture you want.

Step 2: Combine Rice, Liquid, and Seasonings

Place the rinsed rice in your heat-safe bowl. Add the water (or broth), a pinch of salt, and any extras you like. I usually add a teaspoon of olive oil or butter—it adds richness and prevents sticking. For flavor, try a crushed garlic clove, a sprig of thyme, or a splash of soy sauce.

Mix gently with a fork to distribute the liquid evenly. Don’t stir too much—you don’t want to break the grains.

Step 3: Seal the Bowl

This is the most important step. Loosely cover the bowl with aluminum foil, pressing it tightly around the edges. You want a good seal to trap steam. If you don’t have foil, use a silicone lid or even a heat-safe plate. The goal is to create a mini steam oven inside the air fryer.

I’ve tried cooking rice without covering it—it dried out in 10 minutes and was still crunchy in the center. The foil is non-negotiable.

Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer

Place the sealed bowl in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature and time based on the rice type:

• White rice: 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes
• Brown rice: 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes
• Jasmine or basmati: 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes

Start with the lower end of the time range. After cooking, let the rice sit for 5 minutes with the foil still on—this finishes the steaming process and prevents condensation from making the rice soggy.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Carefully remove the foil (watch for steam!), and fluff the rice with a fork. You should see separate, fluffy grains. If it’s a bit wet, let it sit uncovered for another minute. Serve immediately or transfer to a container for meal prep.

Bonus tip: If you’re cooking a large batch, stir the rice halfway through cooking. This ensures even heat distribution, especially in air fryers with uneven airflow.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Rice Every Time

Adjust Water for Your Air Fryer

Not all air fryers are created equal. Some run hotter or have stronger fans, which can dry out rice faster. If your rice turns out dry or burnt, try reducing the water by 1–2 tablespoons next time. If it’s too wet, add a bit more.

I have two air fryers—a Cosori and a Ninja. The Cosori runs a bit hotter, so I use 1.25 cups of water for 1 cup of white rice. The Ninja is gentler, so I stick to 1.5 cups. Experiment with small batches to find your sweet spot.

Use the Resting Time Wisely

The 5-minute rest after cooking is crucial. It lets the rice absorb any remaining moisture and finish cooking evenly. Skipping this step can result in a slightly crunchy center. I’ve learned to set a timer and walk away—no peeking!

Flavor Hacks

Want to jazz up your rice? Try these easy add-ins:

• Broth instead of water: Chicken, vegetable, or mushroom broth adds depth.
• Butter or ghee: A tablespoon adds richness and a golden color.
• Citrus zest: Lemon or lime zest brightens the flavor.
• Spices: A pinch of turmeric, cumin, or smoked paprika for a flavor boost.
• Dairy: A splash of cream or coconut milk for creamy rice.

For example, I love cooking brown rice with chicken broth, a teaspoon of curry powder, and a bay leaf. The air fryer infuses the rice with flavor without burning the spices—something that’s hard to do on the stovetop.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best method, things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix common problems:

• Burnt bottom: Reduce cooking time by 5 minutes or lower the temperature to 325°F. Stirring halfway can also help.
• Too wet: Cook for 5 more minutes with the foil slightly open to let steam escape.
• Too dry: Add a splash of hot water, re-cover, and cook for 2–3 more minutes.
• Uneven cooking: Stir the rice halfway through cooking or use a deeper, narrower bowl for better heat distribution.

Data Table: Rice Types and Cooking Times

Rice Type	Rice:Water Ratio	Temperature	Cooking Time	Rest Time	Notes
White (long-grain)	1:1.5	350°F	25–30 min	5 min	Fluffy, separate grains. Rinse well.
Brown	1:2	350°F	40–45 min	5 min	Chewier texture. Add 5 min for softer rice.
Jasmine	1:1.5	350°F	20–25 min	5 min	Fragrant. Use broth for extra flavor.
Basmati	1:1.5	350°F	20–25 min	5 min	Rinse thoroughly to remove starch.
Wild Rice	1:2.5	350°F	45–50 min	5 min	Mix with brown rice for better texture.
Sushi (short-grain)	1:1.25	350°F	25–30 min	5 min	Sticky texture. Rinse gently to preserve starch.

Final Thoughts: Is Air Fryer Rice Worth It?

So, can you cook rice in an air fryer? Absolutely. And for many people, it’s not just possible—it’s better. The method is simple, the cleanup is minimal, and the results are consistently fluffy and flavorful. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anyone who wants to simplify their cooking routine.

That said, it’s not perfect for every situation. If you’re cooking a huge batch of rice (like for a party), a rice cooker or stovetop pot might be more practical. And if your air fryer is small or runs very hot, you might need to adjust the method. But for everyday use, especially for 1–4 servings, the air fryer is a fantastic tool.

I’ve been cooking rice this way for over a year now, and I rarely go back to the stovetop. It’s saved me time, reduced my cleanup, and even made me experiment with new flavors—like turmeric-infused rice with roasted chickpeas or coconut-lime rice for tacos. The air fryer isn’t just for frying anymore. It’s a versatile kitchen workhorse, and rice is just one more thing it can do brilliantly.

So give it a try. Start with white rice, follow the steps, and see how it goes. You might just find yourself saying, “Why didn’t I try this sooner?” And who knows—your air fryer might become your new favorite rice cooker.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook rice in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook rice in an air fryer using a heat-safe dish or silicone container. It’s a convenient method for small batches and produces fluffy, evenly cooked rice with minimal effort.

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

The easiest method involves rinsing rice, adding it to a greased oven-safe bowl with water (1:1.25 ratio for white rice), and cooking at 360°F (182°C) for 20–25 minutes. Stir once halfway through for even texture.

Does cooking rice in an air fryer affect its texture?

Cooking rice in an air fryer yields slightly firmer grains compared to stovetop cooking, but it’s still fluffy. Brown rice may take longer, so adjust water and time accordingly.

Can you use an air fryer to reheat leftover rice?

Absolutely! Spread rice in an even layer, sprinkle with a tablespoon of water, and reheat at 320°F (160°C) for 5–7 minutes. This prevents drying and restores moisture.

Do you need special tools to cook rice in an air fryer?

You’ll need a heat-safe dish (like ceramic, glass, or silicone) that fits in your air fryer basket. A trivet or foil sling can help with easy removal once cooked.

Is it safe to cook rice in an air fryer?

Yes, as long as you use oven-safe containers and follow standard rice-to-water ratios. Avoid overfilling to prevent boiling over and ensure proper ventilation during cooking.