An air fryer grill is a hybrid appliance that combines the rapid air circulation of an air fryer with traditional grill plates, creating crispy, charred food with up to 80% less oil than conventional grilling. This innovative kitchen gadget has revolutionised how UK households prepare everything from Sunday roasts to quick midweek dinners, offering restaurant-quality results without the hassle of outdoor barbecues.
The magic of an air fryer grill lies in its dual cooking system. While the heating element and fan circulate hot air around the food (like a standard air fryer), the grill plates below create authentic sear marks and that coveted smoky flavour. Most models reach temperatures between 200-220°C, perfect for achieving crispy skins on chicken or caramelisation on vegetables. You'll find plenty of inspiration for putting yours to work in our air fryer recipes collection.
Unlike traditional grilling where flare-ups can char food unevenly, the enclosed design of an air griller ensures consistent heat distribution. The removable plates (usually non-stick) make cleaning a breeze – just pop them in the dishwasher or give them a quick wipe with our recommended air fryer cleaner. Many models also include accessories like skewer racks or baking pans, expanding your cooking possibilities even further.
Health-conscious cooks love air fryer grills because they dramatically reduce oil usage while still delivering that satisfying grilled texture. A typical serving of grilled salmon prepared this way contains about 30% less fat than pan-fried versions – explore our salmon recipes to see the difference. The quick preheating time (usually under 5 minutes) means you can go from fridge to plate faster than firing up an outdoor barbecue.
These appliances are incredibly versatile too. Beyond the obvious meats and fish, they excel at grilled halloumi, charred corn on the cob, or even grilled fruit desserts. The contained cooking environment prevents smoke and splatters, making them ideal for flat kitchens where extractor fans struggle. For perfect results every time, consult our air fryer conversion chart to adjust traditional grilling times.
When shopping for an air griller, consider capacity (2-5L suits most households), wattage (higher means faster cooking), and plate material (ceramic coatings resist scratching). Look for models with adjustable temperature controls and timers for precision cooking – essential when preparing delicate items from our shrimp recipes collection.
Start with classic grilled chicken – the high heat seals in juices while creating crispy skin. Our chicken recipes section includes everything from peri-peri thighs to lemon-herb breasts. Vegetables shine in the air fryer grill too; peppers, courgettes and aubergines develop wonderful sweetness when grilled this way. Find seasonal inspiration in our vegetables category.
For something different, try grilling pineapple rings or peach halves – the caramelisation intensifies their natural sugars beautifully. Burgers and sausages cook evenly without drying out, while fish like tuna steaks develop perfect crusts. The air fryer grill's compact size makes it brilliant for small batches or single servings, reducing food waste.
Always unplug your air griller before cleaning. Wait until it's completely cool, then remove the grill plates and drip tray for washing. Use a soft brush or sponge to avoid damaging non-stick surfaces. For stubborn grease, a paste of baking soda and water works wonders. Regular maintenance ensures your appliance lasts for years of delicious grilled meals.
