Yes, you can reheat food in an air fryer—it’s one of the quickest and most effective ways to bring leftovers back to life. Unlike microwaves, which can leave food soggy, air fryers use circulating hot air to crisp up your meals perfectly. Whether it’s last night’s pizza, fried chicken, or even roasted vegetables, reheating in an air fryer restores that fresh-out-of-the-oven texture. For best results, preheat your air fryer and adjust the temperature based on what you’re reheating. If you’re unsure about timings, our reheating chart for air fryer can help guide you.
Reheating food in an air fryer is ideal because it mimics the effects of an oven but in a fraction of the time. The rapid air circulation ensures even heating, so no cold spots remain in your meal. This method works particularly well for foods that were originally crispy or fried, like chips, spring rolls, or breaded chicken. Even dishes like casseroles or baked pasta benefit from the air fryer’s ability to revive a golden top layer. If you’re meal prepping, the air fryer is a game-changer for keeping your meal prep dishes tasting fresh.
Another advantage is that reheating in an air fryer requires little to no added oil, making it a healthier alternative to frying or microwaving with extra fat. Foods like roasted potatoes or vegetables regain their crunch without becoming greasy. For best results, spread food in a single layer and shake the basket halfway through cooking. If you’re reheating multiple items, our recipe guides offer tailored advice for different dishes.
Some foods reheat exceptionally well in an air fryer, while others may need slight adjustments. Pizza is a standout—just three minutes at 180°C brings back the crispy crust and melted cheese. Fried chicken and nuggets regain their crunch without drying out, especially if lightly sprayed with oil. Leftover fries or roast potatoes crisp up beautifully, unlike the soggy results from a microwave. Even baked goods like pastries or croissants benefit from a quick air fryer warm-up.
While reheating food in an air fryer works for most dishes, some items don’t fare as well. Delicate foods like steamed fish or leafy greens can dry out or become too crispy. Saucy dishes like soups or stews are better reheated on the stove, as the air fryer isn’t designed for liquids. Dairy-heavy dishes like creamy pasta can sometimes separate or become grainy when reheated this way. For these, sticking to traditional methods or checking our cleaning tips for spill-prone meals is wise.
To get the best results when reheating food in an air fryer, start by preheating it to the recommended temperature—usually between 160°C and 180°C. Arrange food in a single layer to ensure even crisping, and avoid overcrowding the basket. For moist foods like chicken or meat, a light spritz of oil or water can prevent drying out. Check the food halfway through and shake or flip it for uniform heating. If you’re unsure about timings, refer to our reheating chart for air fryer for precise guidance.
Different foods require different approaches—for example, breaded items like fish fingers or chicken tenders reheat best at a higher temperature for a shorter time. Meanwhile, baked goods like muffins or cakes do better at a lower heat to avoid burning. If you’re reheating multiple components of a meal, like a breakfast platter, stagger the timings to ensure everything is warm at once. Experimentation is key, but once you master it, reheating in an air fryer will become your go-to method.
One common mistake when reheating food in an air fryer is using too high a temperature, which can lead to burnt edges or dried-out centres. Another is forgetting to preheat, which can result in uneven cooking. For foods prone to sticking, like cheese-heavy dishes, use parchment paper or a light grease. If reheating saucy items like wings, toss them in sauce after heating to maintain texture. And always let your air fryer cool before cleaning—our cleaning guide makes maintenance a breeze.
