CookMeasureAir fryer cooking chart
| Food | Temp | Time | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frozen fries | 400 °F / 200 °C | 15–20 min | Shake halfway |
| Chicken wings | 380 °F / 195 °C | 22–25 min | Flip halfway, then 400 °F for 3 min |
| Chicken breast (boneless) | 375 °F / 190 °C | 16–20 min | Until 165 °F / 74 °C inside |
| Salmon fillet | 390 °F / 200 °C | 8–10 min | Skin side down |
| Roast potatoes (cubed) | 400 °F / 200 °C | 18–22 min | Toss in 1 tsp oil |
| Broccoli | 375 °F / 190 °C | 8–10 min | Toss in oil and salt |
| Pork chops (1 in) | 380 °F / 195 °C | 12–15 min | Until 145 °F / 63 °C inside |
| Frozen chicken nuggets | 400 °F / 200 °C | 8–10 min | Single layer |
| Bacon | 350 °F / 175 °C | 8–12 min | Lower temp limits smoke |
| Reheating pizza | 350 °F / 175 °C | 3–4 min | Crisp base, soft top |
Times are starting points for a preheated basket air fryer; models vary. Check meat with a thermometer against USDA safe minimum temperatures.
Why the rule works
An air fryer is a compact convection oven: a heating element above a fan that drives hot air at high speed around a small basket. The fast air strips away the layer of cooler, moist air hugging the food, so heat transfers faster and surfaces brown sooner. That’s why the same setting would scorch the outside before the inside is done — dropping 25 °F and shortening the time rebalances it. Overcrowding blocks the airflow and cancels the advantage, so cook in a single layer.
Questions cooks ask
How do I convert oven time to air fryer time?
Lower the temperature by 25 °F (about 15 °C) and cut the time by roughly 20%. Check food halfway through.
Is 400 °F in the oven the same as in an air fryer?
No. An air fryer is a small convection oven with a powerful fan, so it cooks faster at the same setting. Use 375 °F in the air fryer for a 400 °F oven recipe.
Can I use oven-baking times for frozen foods?
Use the package’s air fryer directions if given. Otherwise apply the same −25 °F / −20% rule and shake the basket halfway.