Can You Warm Up Food in an Air Fryer Discover How

Yes, you can warm up food in an air fryer—it’s one of the quickest and most effective ways to reheat leftovers while keeping them crispy and delicious. Unlike microwaves, air fryers use circulating hot air to evenly warm food without making it soggy, making them perfect for reheating fried foods, roasted vegetables, and more.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can reheat food in an air fryer for crispy results.
• Use 250–350°F to avoid overcooking or drying out leftovers.
• Preheat the air fryer for even and consistent warming.
• Spread food in one layer to ensure optimal air circulation.
• Reheat in short intervals, checking frequently to prevent burning.
• Add oil or water sparingly to restore moisture when needed.
• Ideal for crispy foods like fries, pizza, and chicken nuggets.

Can You Warm Up Food in an Air Fryer? Discover How

Let’s be real—no one likes eating cold leftovers. Whether it’s last night’s pizza, yesterday’s fried chicken, or the casserole from three days ago, the way you reheat food can make or break your meal. I remember the first time I tried to warm up a slice of pizza in the microwave. Sure, it was fast, but that rubbery crust and lukewarm cheese? Not a vibe. I wanted that crispy, fresh-out-of-the-oven texture, and I knew there had to be a better way.

That’s when I started experimenting with my air fryer. You’ve probably heard all the hype—crispy fries with less oil, juicy chicken wings, and even baked potatoes in record time. But can you warm up food in an air fryer? Spoiler: yes, and it’s often better than the microwave or oven. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to use your air fryer to reheat everything from fried foods to baked goods, share my favorite tips, and even show you when not to use it. Whether you’re a meal prepper, a busy parent, or just someone who hates soggy leftovers, this guide is for you.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Reheating

You might be wondering: why bother with the air fryer when the microwave is right there? The answer is simple: texture. Air fryers use rapid air circulation to crisp up food from all sides, mimicking the results of deep frying or baking—without the oil or the wait. Unlike microwaves, which heat food unevenly and often turn crispy foods into a sad, mushy mess, air fryers restore that crunch you love.

How Air Fryers Work Their Magic

Air fryers are basically mini convection ovens. A heating element warms the air, and a powerful fan circulates it around your food at high speed. This creates a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside moist. For reheating, this means your leftover chicken tenders won’t just be warm—they’ll taste like they came straight from the fryer.

Here’s the science in simple terms: when you reheat in a microwave, the waves penetrate the food and excite water molecules, causing them to vibrate and generate heat. This works fast, but it also steams the food, which is why your pizza crust gets soggy. Air fryers, on the other hand, dry out the surface while gently warming the inside. It’s the difference between a limp french fry and one that snaps when you bite it.

Benefits of Reheating in an Air Fryer

• Restores crispiness: Ideal for fried foods, pastries, and breaded items.
• Faster than a regular oven: Most foods reheat in 3–8 minutes.
• Uses less energy: Air fryers heat up quickly and don’t require preheating (usually).
• Even heating: The fan ensures all sides get equal attention—no cold spots.
• Versatile: Works for a wide range of foods, from meats to veggies to baked goods.

But it’s not perfect for everything—more on that later. The key is knowing which foods shine and which ones should stay in the microwave.

Best Foods to Warm Up in an Air Fryer (and How to Do It)

Not all leftovers are created equal. Some foods transform beautifully in the air fryer, while others… not so much. Here’s your go-to list of what works—and how to do it right.

Fried and Breaded Foods

This is where the air fryer truly shines. Think chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, onion rings, or even fish and chips. The air fryer brings back that golden, crispy crust while reheating the inside to perfection.

How to do it:

• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes (optional, but helps with even heating).
• Place food in a single layer—don’t overcrowd.
• Reheat for 3–5 minutes. Flip halfway through for even crispness.
• For extra crispiness, lightly spray with oil (just a spritz).

Pro tip: If your food is frozen, add 2–3 minutes to the cooking time. No need to thaw first.

Pizza

Ah, the ultimate leftover. Microwave pizza is a crime. Air fryer pizza? A revelation. The crust gets crisp, the cheese melts evenly, and the toppings stay intact.

How to do it:

• Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Place 1–2 slices in the basket. If the slices are large, you may need to cut them in half.
• Reheat for 3–4 minutes. Watch closely—cheese can bubble over.
• For a crispier crust, add 30 seconds at 400°F (200°C) at the end.

Real-life example: I reheated a slice of deep-dish pizza this way, and my partner thought I’d ordered a fresh one. Game. Changer.

Baked Goods and Pastries

Got leftover croissants, muffins, or even cookies? The air fryer can bring them back to life. It’s especially great for flaky pastries like danishes or turnovers.

How to do it:

• Set air fryer to 300–325°F (150–160°C).
• Reheat for 2–4 minutes. Lower temp = less risk of burning.
• For cookies, wrap in foil or place on parchment to prevent spreading.

Caution: Avoid delicate pastries with frosting or glaze—they can melt or burn easily. Stick to plain or lightly sweetened items.

Vegetables (Yes, Really!)

Roasted or sautéed veggies can lose their texture in the microwave. But in the air fryer? They crisp up beautifully, especially root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts.

How to do it:

• Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
• Place veggies in a single layer. Toss with a little oil if they seem dry.
• Reheat for 3–5 minutes. Stir halfway through.

Bonus: This method works great for reheating roasted sweet potatoes or even leftover grilled corn on the cob (cut into smaller pieces).

Meat and Casseroles

Grilled chicken, meatloaf, or even lasagna can be reheated in the air fryer—but with a twist. Since these foods are often moist, you’ll want to use a lower temperature and possibly cover them to prevent drying.

How to do it:

• Set air fryer to 325°F (160°C).
• Place meat or casserole in an oven-safe dish or foil-lined basket.
• Cover loosely with foil to trap moisture.
• Reheat for 5–8 minutes. Check internal temp—especially for chicken (165°F/74°C).

Tip: For casseroles with cheese on top, remove foil for the last 1–2 minutes to brown the cheese.

Foods You Should Avoid Reheating in an Air Fryer

Now, let’s talk about the “don’ts.” While the air fryer is amazing for many foods, some just don’t belong in there. Here’s what to skip—and why.

Wet or Saucy Foods

Think mac and cheese, soups, or anything swimming in gravy. The air fryer’s fan will blow the liquid around, making a mess and preventing proper heating. Plus, the high heat can cause splattering.

Better option: Use the stove or microwave. If you must use the air fryer, transfer the food to a covered oven-safe dish and reheat at a lower temp (300°F) for a short time—but it’s still riskier.

Leafy Greens and Delicate Vegetables

Spinach, lettuce, or steamed broccoli will wilt or burn quickly. The high heat and airflow are too intense for tender greens.

Better option: Steam or sauté on the stove. Or use the microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Foods with Frosting, Glaze, or Delicate Toppings

Cakes with buttercream, donuts with sprinkles, or anything with a sticky glaze can melt, burn, or fall apart. The air fryer’s heat and motion are too aggressive.

Better option: Microwave for 15–20 seconds to take the chill off, then let it sit at room temp. Or use a conventional oven at 250°F for 10–15 minutes.

Large or Dense Items

Whole chickens, thick steaks, or dense casseroles may not reheat evenly. The outside can burn while the inside stays cold.

Better option: Use the oven for large items. For steaks, slice them thinly first—then they reheat beautifully in the air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes.

Pro tip: Always cut food into smaller, uniform pieces when possible. It ensures even heating and reduces cook time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reheating in an Air Fryer

Ready to try it? Here’s a simple, foolproof method that works for most foods. Think of it as your air fryer reheating cheat sheet.

Step 1: Check Your Food

Ask yourself:

• Is it crispy when fresh? (e.g., fries, chicken nuggets) → Good for air fryer.
• Is it saucy, wet, or delicate? → Use microwave or stove.
• Is it a large piece? → Cut it up first.

Step 2: Preheat (Optional)

Most air fryers don’t need preheating, but doing so (2–3 minutes) can help with even heating—especially for crispy foods. For delicate items, skip it.

Step 3: Arrange Properly

• Use a single layer. Overcrowding = steam, not crispness.
• Leave space between pieces so air can circulate.
• For small items (like chicken nuggets), use a silicone liner or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Set Temperature and Time

Here’s a quick reference:

Food Type	Temperature	Time	Notes
Fried Foods	350°F (175°C)	3–5 min	Flip halfway
Pizza	375°F (190°C)	3–4 min	Watch for bubbling
Baked Goods	300–325°F (150–160°C)	2–4 min	Lower temp for delicate items
Vegetables	375°F (190°C)	3–5 min	Stir halfway
Meat/Casseroles	325°F (160°C)	5–8 min	Cover with foil

Step 5: Monitor and Adjust

Air fryers vary in power. Check your food halfway through. If it’s browning too fast, lower the temp or reduce time. If it’s not crispy enough, add 30 seconds.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Air fryer-reheated food is best eaten right away. The crispiness fades quickly, just like fresh fried food.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even the best cooks make mistakes. Here are the top pitfalls when reheating in an air fryer—and how to fix them.

Overcrowding the Basket

It’s tempting to pile in as much food as possible, but this blocks airflow. The result? Soggy, unevenly reheated food.

Solution: Work in batches. It might take a few extra minutes, but your food will taste better.

Using Too High a Temperature

High heat burns food fast, especially items with sugar (like pastries) or cheese. A 400°F blast can turn your croissant into charcoal.

Solution: Start low and go slow. 350°F or below is safer for most reheating tasks.

Not Checking for Doneness

Every air fryer is different. A recipe might say “4 minutes,” but your machine could run hotter or colder.

Solution: Use a food thermometer for meats (165°F for poultry). For everything else, trust your eyes and taste.

Forgetting to Flip or Stir

Air fryers cook from all sides, but some foods (like thick chicken tenders) need a flip for even heating.

Solution: Set a timer for halfway through and flip, stir, or rotate the basket.

Using Non-Oven-Safe Containers

Glass, ceramic, or plastic containers can crack or melt. Only use materials labeled oven-safe or air fryer-safe.

Solution: Stick to metal, silicone, or parchment paper. Avoid plastic entirely.

Final Thoughts: Is the Air Fryer Worth It for Reheating?

So, can you warm up food in an air fryer? Absolutely—and in many cases, it’s the best way to do it. The air fryer brings back that crispy, fresh texture that microwaves simply can’t match. From pizza to pastries to fried chicken, it transforms leftovers into something you’ll actually look forward to eating.

But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Saucy foods, delicate greens, and large items still need the microwave or oven. The key is knowing when to use each tool. Think of your air fryer as your crispy food specialist, the microwave for quick and wet, and the oven for big jobs.

I’ve saved so much time and frustration since I started reheating in my air fryer. No more soggy fries. No more rubbery chicken. Just hot, delicious food that feels like a fresh meal. And the best part? It’s fast, easy, and uses less energy than firing up the oven.

So give it a try. Grab that leftover slice of pizza or that half-eaten batch of chicken nuggets. Set your air fryer to 375°F, pop it in for a few minutes, and taste the difference. I promise—you’ll never go back to the microwave for crispy foods again. Your taste buds (and your stomach) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you warm up food in an air fryer without drying it out?

Yes, you can warm up food in an air fryer while keeping it moist by using a lower temperature (around 300°F/150°C) and reheating in short intervals. Lightly spritzing oily or breaded foods with water or oil helps retain crispness and moisture.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers in an air fryer?

To reheat leftovers in an air fryer, preheat the appliance to 350°F (175°C), place food in a single layer, and heat for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway. This method works well for pizza, fries, chicken, and even baked goods, restoring their original texture.

Can you warm up food in an air fryer that was originally fried?

Absolutely! An air fryer is ideal for reheating fried foods like chicken tenders or mozzarella sticks, as it re-crisps the exterior without overcooking. Use 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes for optimal results.

Is it safe to reheat oily or greasy food in an air fryer?

Yes, it’s safe to reheat oily food in an air fryer, but avoid overcrowding to prevent smoking. Line the basket with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup, especially with foods like bacon or fried chicken.

How long does it take to warm up food in an air fryer?

Most foods take 3-5 minutes to warm up in an air fryer at 300-350°F (150-175°C), depending on thickness and quantity. Smaller items like nuggets reheat faster, while dense foods (e.g., casseroles) may need 6-8 minutes.

Can you reheat multiple types of food at once in an air fryer?

Yes, but group similar items (e.g., breaded foods, meats) and avoid mixing wet and dry foods to prevent uneven heating. Use air fryer racks or silicone dividers for smaller batches to maintain airflow.