Your air fryer was practically designed for frozen foods. The rapid air circulation transforms sad, soggy freezer items into crispy, golden perfection in minutes — no preheating a full oven required. But some frozen foods work dramatically better than others. Here are our top 12 picks.
1. French Fries (Any Cut)
This is the air fryer's signature move. Frozen fries — whether crinkle-cut, steak-cut, or shoestring — come out crispier in the air fryer than in the oven every single time. Cook at 204°C (400°F) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway. Crinkle-cut and waffle fries work especially well because the ridges catch the hot air.
2. Chicken Nuggets
Kids and adults alike will notice the difference. Air-fried nuggets develop an evenly golden, crunchy coating that microwaves cannot match. Cook at 193°C (380°F) for 8-10 minutes. Works brilliantly with any brand.
3. Tater Tots
Tater tots are arguably even better than fries in the air fryer. The small size means maximum crispy surface area. Cook at 204°C (400°F) for 12-14 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes. They come out uniformly golden and crunchy throughout.
4. Mozzarella Sticks
The air fryer is the only way to get truly crispy frozen mozzarella sticks without deep frying. The key is not overcrowding — leave space between each stick. Cook at 199°C (390°F) for 6-8 minutes. Check early to prevent cheese leakage.
5. Fish Sticks and Fish Fillets
Frozen fish is transformed in the air fryer. The coating gets properly crispy while the fish inside stays moist and flaky. Cook at 204°C (400°F) for 10-12 minutes, flipping once. Pair with tartar sauce for a quick fish and chips dinner.
6. Spring Rolls and Egg Rolls
Frozen spring rolls and egg rolls crisp up beautifully with just a light spray of oil. The wrappers get shatteringly crispy — much better than baking. Cook at 199°C (390°F) for 8-10 minutes, turning once.
7. Pizza Rolls
Pizza rolls from the air fryer are a revelation. The outside gets properly crispy without the filling exploding everywhere (the main problem with microwaving). Cook at 193°C (380°F) for 6-8 minutes. Let them cool for two minutes before eating.
8. Chicken Wings
Frozen chicken wings need a bit more time but the results are outstanding. No need to thaw — cook from frozen at 193°C (380°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. The skin renders and crisps beautifully. Toss in your favourite sauce after cooking.
9. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are notoriously difficult to get crispy in a regular oven, but the air fryer handles them perfectly. The concentrated heat caramelises the natural sugars while crisping the outside. Cook at 204°C (400°F) for 10-14 minutes.
10. Onion Rings
Frozen onion rings get the full pub-quality treatment in the air fryer. Look for brands with a thick, beer-batter-style coating for best results. Cook at 204°C (400°F) for 8-10 minutes, flipping once.
11. Veggie Burgers
Whether you prefer Beyond, Impossible, or classic veggie patties, the air fryer cooks them perfectly from frozen. You get a nicely charred exterior without the patty falling apart on a grill or getting soggy in a pan. Cook at 191°C (375°F) for 10-12 minutes, flipping once.
12. Frozen Dumplings and Potstickers
This might be the biggest surprise on the list. Frozen dumplings in the air fryer develop crispy bottoms and tender tops — similar to pan-fried dumplings but with less effort and oil. Spray lightly with oil, cook at 191°C (375°F) for 10-12 minutes.
Pro Tips for Air Frying Frozen Foods
- Do not thaw first. Cook from frozen for the best texture.
- Shake or flip halfway through for even browning.
- Do not overcrowd. Better to cook in two batches than pile everything in.
- Start with the package temperature and reduce by 25°F (-4°C). Air fryers run hotter than ovens.
- A light oil spray on items without a pre-existing coating makes a noticeable difference.
The air fryer has genuinely changed how we eat frozen foods. Items that used to be emergency-only meals are now legitimately delicious. Keep your freezer stocked and your air fryer ready.
