The secret to perfect air fryer chips

We all know that using an air fryer is one of the quickest and easiest ways to cook the nation’s favourite side-dish – chips.

But it’s not just the speed which is important when it comes to our chips; what about getting that gourmet look, feel and most importantly, flavour?

So, to stop the nation’s fries flailing flat, we’ve got some top tips and recipes to mark National Chip Week (20-26 February 2024).

There’s no denying that chips – whether chunky, crinkle cut or fries – work brilliantly in the air fryer. However, there’s no reason you can’t improve on a classic.

From indulgent loaded fries to healthy alternatives, there’s dozens of ways to dial up the flavour of your favourite side.

Top tips for perfect air fryer chips

Dry your potatoes

After cutting your potatoes, be sure to give them a quick pat with some dry kitchen roll or paper towels, to get them as dry as possible.

This helps to remove moisture, paving the way for extra crispy chips with that heavenly fluffy inside.

Beware of the overfill

There’s a reason people say “don’t cook when you’re hungry”. Overfilling your air fryer drawer can be tempting when you’re famished, but it can stop the air circulating properly. If you’re cooking a big portion, cooking your chips in batches is an easy way to avoid the over-crowding.

Get criss-crossing

If you are cooking a large batch for multiple friends and family. Try laying your chips down in a criss-cross or lattice shape, as this allows the hot air to circulate fully around the chips for a deliciously crispy exterior.