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# Air Fryer Frozen Chips Crispy Guide (Better Than Oven)

If you love crispy, golden chips but want a quicker, healthier alternative to deep frying or the traditional oven method, then air frying is your best bet. Air fryers have revolutionized how we cook frozen chips, delivering that perfect crunch with less oil and in less time. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to make **air fryer frozen chips crispy**—better than your oven every time. Plus, we’ll share tips on pairing your chips with delicious **air fryer chicken** recipes for a complete meal.

## Why Choose Air Fryer Over Oven for Frozen Chips?

When it comes to cooking frozen chips, many people default to the oven. While ovens can produce decent results, air fryers offer several advantages:

– **Faster Cooking Time:** Air fryers circulate hot air rapidly, cooking chips evenly and quickly.
– **Crispier Texture:** The intense air circulation crisps up the exterior while keeping the inside soft.
– **Less Oil Needed:** Air fryers require little to no oil, making your chips healthier.
– **Energy Efficient:** Air fryers use less energy than heating a large oven.

These benefits make the air fryer the perfect appliance to get crispy frozen chips every time.

## How to Make Air Fryer Frozen Chips Crispy

### Step 1: Choose the Right Frozen Chips

Not all frozen chips are created equal. For the crispiest results, opt for thicker-cut chips or steak fries. Shoestring fries can work too but may cook faster and require careful monitoring to avoid burning.

### Step 2: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheating your air fryer at 200°C (about 400°F) for 3-5 minutes ensures the chips start cooking immediately and crisp up nicely.

### Step 3: Add a Light Coat of Oil

Although frozen chips often come pre-oiled, adding a light spray or drizzle of oil can enhance crispiness. Use a high smoke point oil like vegetable or avocado oil.

### Step 4: Arrange Chips in a Single Layer

Place the frozen chips in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even air circulation and crisping.

### Step 5: Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 Minutes

Cook the chips for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to promote even cooking. Adjust the time depending on your air fryer model and chip thickness.

### Step 6: Season Immediately

Once cooked, season your chips with salt, pepper, or your favorite seasoning blend while still hot to enhance flavor.

## Tips for Extra Crispy Air Fryer Frozen Chips

– **Shake or Toss Frequently:** This prevents chips from sticking and ensures all sides get crispy.
– **Don’t Skip Preheating:** A hot air fryer basket helps chips crisp faster.
– **Use a Light Oil Spray:** A fine mist of oil helps crispiness without adding excess fat.
– **Avoid Overcrowding:** Too many chips block airflow, resulting in soggy fries.
– **Try Soaking Fresh Potatoes:** If making homemade chips, soak cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before air frying to remove excess starch.

## Air Fryer Frozen Chips vs Oven: The Crispiness Showdown

| Aspect | Air Fryer Frozen Chips | Oven Frozen Chips |
|———————-|————————————|———————————-|
| Cooking Time | 15-20 minutes | 25-35 minutes |
| Crispiness Level | Very crispy, evenly cooked | Crispy but can be uneven |
| Oil Usage | Minimal to none | Often requires more oil |
| Energy Efficiency | Uses less energy | Uses more energy |
| Ease of Use | Simple, quick | Requires longer preheating |

Clearly, air fryers deliver crispier chips faster and more efficiently than ovens.

## Pairing Your Crispy Air Fryer Frozen Chips with Air Fryer Chicken

Nothing complements crispy chips better than juicy, tender **air fryer chicken**. Using the air fryer for both components allows you to prepare a delicious, balanced meal with minimal fuss.

### Easy Air Fryer Chicken Recipe

**Ingredients:**

– 4 chicken thighs or breasts
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F).
2. Rub chicken pieces with olive oil and season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving alongside your crispy frozen chips.

This simple recipe produces flavorful, crispy-skinned chicken that pairs perfectly with your air fryer frozen chips.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

### Can I cook frozen chips and chicken together in the air fryer?

Yes, but it depends on your air fryer size. If large enough, you can cook chicken and frozen chips simultaneously by placing them in separate layers or baskets. Just ensure both reach their proper cooking temperatures.

### Do I need to thaw frozen chips before air frying?

No, frozen chips can be cooked directly from the freezer. Cooking them frozen helps maintain their texture and prevents sogginess.

### How much oil should I use for air fryer frozen chips?

A light spray or 1-2 teaspoons of oil is sufficient. Too much oil can cause chips to become greasy instead of crispy.

### Can I use the air fryer for homemade chips?

Absolutely! Cut potatoes into your desired chip shape, soak in cold water for 30 minutes, pat dry, lightly oil, and air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes.

### What temperature is best for air frying frozen chips?

200°C (400°F) is ideal for crispy, golden chips. Lower temperatures may result in soggy fries.

## Final Thoughts

If you’re craving perfectly crispy frozen chips, the air fryer is your ultimate kitchen ally. It outperforms the oven in speed, crispiness, and healthiness. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy golden, crunchy chips every time. And when paired with juicy **air fryer chicken**, you have a delicious, wholesome meal ready in under 30 minutes.

So next time you want crispy chips, skip the oven and reach for your air fryer—you won’t be disappointed!

Keyword: air fryer chicken