# Best Air Fryer Under $100: Your Ultimate Guide to Healthy, Crispy Meals
Are you dreaming of perfectly crispy foods without drowning them in oil? Do you crave that delicious, golden-brown finish on your air fryer chicken but don’t want to break the bank? If so, you’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll explore the **best air fryer under $100** to help you enjoy healthy, tasty meals on a budget.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home chef, air fryers have revolutionized how we cook. They enable you to whip up scrumptious dishes with less oil, less mess, and less stress. Let’s dive into the top affordable options, how to choose the right one, and some creative tips for cooking air fryer chicken and more.
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## Why Choose an Air Fryer?
Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to cook food evenly and quickly. Unlike deep frying, they require minimal oil, making them a healthier alternative without sacrificing that crispy texture we love.
### Benefits of Using an Air Fryer:
– **Healthier meals** with up to 80% less fat
– **Faster cooking time** than traditional ovens
– Easy cleanup with dishwasher-safe parts
– Versatility: fry, bake, roast, and grill
– Energy-efficient for everyday use
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## How to Choose the Best Air Fryer Under $100
Choosing an air fryer under $100 doesn’t mean you have to settle for mediocre. Here’s what you should look for to get the best value:
### 1. **Capacity**
Air fryers come in various sizes. If you’re cooking for one or two people, a 2-3 quart model might suffice. For families or meal prepping, consider 4-5 quarts.
### 2. **Power and Temperature Range**
Look for an air fryer with at least 1400 watts and temperature settings between 180°F to 400°F. This allows for versatile cooking options, including steaming your favorite air fryer chicken.
### 3. **Ease of Use and Cleaning**
Digital touchscreens and preset cooking modes make usage straightforward. Dishwasher-safe baskets or trays help save time on clean-up.
### 4. **Additional Features**
Some models include accessories like baking pans or skewers. Safety features like auto shut-off and cool-touch handles add peace of mind.
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## Top 5 Best Air Fryers Under $100 in 2024
After extensive research and hands-on testing, here are the **top air fryers under $100** that deliver excellent performance without emptying your wallet.
### 1. **Ninja AF101 Air Fryer**
– **Capacity:** 4 quarts
– **Price:** Around $90
– **Key Features:** Wide temperature range (105°F-400°F), dehydrator mode, ceramic-coated basket
– **Why We Like It:** Renowned for consistent, perfectly cooked air fryer chicken and crispy fries, this model is easy to use and clean with a nonstick basket.
### 2. **COSORI Air Fryer Max XL**
– **Capacity:** 3.7 quarts
– **Price:** Around $85 (often on sale)
– **Key Features:** 11 presets, preheat option, shake reminder
– **Why We Like It:** Great programming options and fast cooking time. Ideal for families looking to enjoy tender, juicy air fryer chicken regularly.
### 3. **Instant Vortex 4-in-1 Air Fryer**
– **Capacity:** 6 quarts
– **Price:** Around $100 (sometimes discounted below)
– **Key Features:** Air fry, roast, bake, reheat modes, easy interface
– **Why We Like It:** Offers large capacity and versatility, perfect for meal prepping and batch cooking air fryer chicken dinners.
### 4. **Dash Compact Air Fryer**
– **Capacity:** 1.6 quarts (compact size)
– **Price:** Around $45
– **Key Features:** Temperature control, auto-shutoff, lightweight design
– **Why We Like It:** Best choice for single people or small kitchens who want quick air fryer chicken or snacks in minutes.
### 5. **GoWISE USA 3.7-Quart Programmable Air Fryer**
– **Capacity:** 3.7 quarts
– **Price:** Around $75
– **Key Features:** 8 cooking presets, digital touchscreen, BPA-free
– **Why We Like It:** Good balance of features and price, making cooking air fryer chicken and veggies hassle-free.
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## Cooking Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Chicken
Nothing beats juicy and crispy air fryer chicken, and with the right techniques, you can nail it every time! Here are some pro tips:
### 1. **Pat Dry Your Chicken**
Before seasoning, use paper towels to remove excess moisture. It helps the skin crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
### 2. **Use a Light Oil Spray**
Although air frying uses less oil, a quick spritz of olive or avocado oil helps achieve that golden texture.
### 3. **Don’t Overcrowd the Basket**
Give your chicken space for hot air to circulate. Cook in batches if needed for even crispiness.
### 4. **Flip Halfway Through Cooking**
Turn your chicken pieces at the halfway mark to ensure even browning.
### 5. **Check Internal Temperature**
For safe eating, chicken should reach 165°F internally. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
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## Delicious Air Fryer Chicken Recipes to Try
Ready to get your air fryer cooking? Here are some simple yet mouthwatering recipes featuring *air fryer chicken* as the star ingredient.
### 1. **Classic Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings**
– Toss wings with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika
– Lightly spray with oil and air fry at 400°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway
– Serve with your favorite dipping sauce
### 2. **Herb-Roasted Air Fryer Chicken Thighs**
– Marinate thighs in olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and lemon juice for 30 minutes
– Air fry at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until crispy on the outside and juicy inside
### 3. **Spicy Buffalo Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks**
– Coat drumsticks with buffalo sauce and a pinch of cayenne pepper
– Cook at 380°F for 22 minutes, turning once
– Pair with celery sticks and blue cheese dip
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## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
### Q1: Can I cook frozen chicken in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Cooking frozen chicken in an air fryer is safe and convenient. Increase cooking time by a few minutes and always check the internal temperature.
### Q2: How much oil do I need for air frying chicken?
You typically only need about one tablespoon or less. Use an oil spray for even coverage.
### Q3: Is air fryer chicken healthier than deep-fried chicken?
Yes! Air frying uses significantly less oil, reducing fat and calories while keeping the crispy texture intact.
### Q4: How do I clean my air fryer?
Let it cool, remove the basket/tray, and wash with warm soapy water or place parts in the dishwasher if safe. Wipe the interior with a damp cloth.
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## Conclusion: Best Value Air Fryer for Tasty, Budget-Friendly Meals
Investing in the **best air fryer under $100** is an excellent way to jumpstart your journey toward healthier eating without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re cooking *air fryer chicken* recipes, roasting vegetables, or reheating leftovers, these air fryers deliver convenience, performance, and crispy deliciousness every time.
If you’re ready to enjoy the benefits of air frying, we highly recommend checking out the Ninja AF101 or the COSORI Air Fryer Max XL for unmatched balance between features and price.
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Invest in your kitchen productivity and enjoy flavorful, crispy meals that your whole family will love. Happy cooking!
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