Quick Answer
The ideal oven temperature setting for air frying is between 360-400°F. Air frying relies on rapid airflow and high heat to quickly cook foods, mimicking deep frying results without submerging foods in oil. Setting your oven between 360-400°F will ensure proper air circulation and heat to achieve crunchy, crispy air fried foods.
Air Fryer Oven Temperature Guidelines
When air frying in the oven, use these temperature guidelines:
| Food | Oven Temperature |
|---|---|
| Chicken wings, drumsticks | 400°F |
| Meatballs | 400°F |
| Fish fillets or shrimp | 400°F |
| Fries or tater tots | 400°F |
| Frozen snacks/appetizers | 400°F |
| Fresh vegetables | 380-400°F |
| Baked goods | 300-350°F |
General rule of thumb is to set the oven 25-50°F lower than what’s recommended for a standalone air fryer, as ovens tend to run slightly hotter. Adjust temperature as needed based on food type and oven variances.
Tips for Air Frying in the Oven
Follow these tips for best air fryer oven results:
Use a wire rack
Place foods on a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet. The rack elevates foods closer to the heating element, promoting air circulation all around.
Give space between food
Avoid overcrowding foods – space them out evenly on the rack for maximum airflow access to all surfaces.
Toss/flip halfway
Toss or flip foods about halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crisping.
Use oil sparingly
Use just a teaspoon or two of oil to lightly coat foods before air frying, such as olive oil spray. The airflow will distribute heat and oil evenly.
Cook in batches for larger quantities
For larger quantities, cook foods in smaller batches to prevent overcrowding and uneven cooking.
Check often near end
Keep an eye on foods in the last few minutes so they don’t overcook. Adjust cook times as needed based on your oven.
Let rest before eating
As with deep frying, let air fried foods rest 1-2 minutes after cooking for the best texture. This allows the interior to finish cooking while the crisp exterior maintains crunch.
The Benefits of Air Frying in Your Oven
Air frying leverages your existing oven to achieve deliciously crispy “fried” foods without all the excess oil and fat of deep frying. Benefits include:
Minimizes fat and calories
Air frying uses little to no oil compared to deep frying, reducing overall fat and calorie intake. Foods come out crispy and tasty thanks to hot airflow, not oil.
Quick and convenient
No special equipment needed – just set your oven temperature and you’re ready to start air frying! It’s a fast, convenient cooking method for any night of the week.
Evenly cooked results
The constant high-heat airflow crisps up the exterior while cooking the inside through. Foods come out crunchy on the outside and tender inside.
Easy cleanup
With minimal oil, air frying makes cleanup a breeze. No need to discard and filter large quantities of used cooking oil either.
Versatile
Almost anything that can be deep fried can also be air fried, from proteins to vegetables to snacks and more. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion
When air frying in your home oven, a temperature between 360-400°F will yield the best results. The high heat coupled with a wire rack and proper airflow mimics deep frying for crispy, oil-free versions of fried favorites. Follow general guidance based on the food type, adjust for your oven variances, and enjoy the convenience and nutrition benefits of air frying at home.