Can You Put Frozen Food In An Air Fryer? Air Frying Frozen Foods Properly

Are you a fan of crispy and delicious meals but short on time? Then start air frying your frozen food straight from the freezer! 

Using an air fryer to cook your favorite frozen treats is not only convenient but also results in a crispy outcome. Whether it’s french fries, chicken nuggets, meat balls, seafood, your frozen foods can be cooked in no time.

Get ready to experience the convenience of air frying frozen food with just a few simple steps.

Key Takeaways:

• Air frying frozen food is a convenient and easy way to enjoy crispy meals.
• Preheating the air fryer and avoiding overcrowding the basket are essential for even cooking.
• Using a food thermometer is crucial to ensure proper cooking temperature and food safety.
• Adjusting the oven instructions for air frying can be helpful in the absence of specific air fryer instructions.
• Explore a wide range of air fryer frozen food options, each with their own recommended cooking times and temperatures.

Cooking Frozen Proteins In An Air Fryer

An air fryer is a versatile appliance that allows you to cook a variety of proteins straight from the freezer.

The secret lies in the hot air circulation within the air fryer, which evenly cooks the frozen food and mimics the technology of a convection oven. Say goodbye to soggy and time-consuming cooking methods. With an air fryer, you can enjoy a crispy and delightful meal without the hassle.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to air fryer frozen food options. Whether you’re craving salmon, shrimp, chicken thighs, steak, pork chops, meatballs, chicken nuggets or French fries, the air fryer can deliver delicious results.

Each frozen food item may require different cooking times and temperatures, so be sure to check the recommended guidelines for each specific type.

Important: it is recommended to place parchment paper or aluminum foil on bottom (not the sides!) of the air fryer basket before adding frozen foods.

Here’s a guide to cooking different frozen foods in an air fryer:

1. Frozen Salmon

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Cooking Temperature: 375°F

• Place the frozen salmon filet skin-side up in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 7 minutes, then flip the salmon.
• Cook for an additional 2-4 minutes, depending on the thickness of the filet.

2. Frozen Shrimp

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Cooking Temperature: 375°F

• Toss the frozen shrimp with olive oil, seasonings, and lemon juice.
• Place the seasoned shrimp in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 5 minutes on one side, then flip the shrimp.
• Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the shrimp is pink and opaque.

3. Frozen Chicken Thighs

Cooking Time: 30-32 minutes

Cooking Temperature: 400°F

• Spritz the frozen chicken thighs with cooking spray or lightly coat them with oil.
• Season the chicken thighs with your favorite spices.
• Place the chicken thighs in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 15 minutes on one side, then flip the chicken thighs.
• Cook for an additional 15-17 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

4. Frozen Meatballs

Cooking Time: 16-18 minutes

Cooking Temperature: 380°F

• Lightly oil the frozen meatballs to prevent sticking.
• Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 10 minutes, then roll the meatballs around for even browning.
• Cook for another 6-8 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.

5. Frozen Steak

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Cooking Temperature: 400°F

• Rub the frozen steak with oil and seasonings.
• Place the steak in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 6 minutes on each side for medium-rare.

6. Frozen Pork Chops

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Cooking Temperature: 400°F

• Lightly oil the frozen pork chops.
• Season the pork chops with your preferred spices.
• Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 8 minutes on one side, then flip the pork chops.
• Cook for another 4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

7. Frozen Chicken Nuggets

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Cooking Temperature: 400°F

• Start by preheating your air fryer to around 400°F.
• Arrange the chicken nuggets: Place the frozen chicken nuggets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket.

• Cook the chicken nuggets: Cook the nuggets for around 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process.
• Check for doneness: To ensure that your chicken nuggets are cooked thoroughly.

8. Frozen French Fries

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Cooking Temperature: 400°F

• Preheat your air fryer to around 400°F.
• Place the frozen French fries in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
• Cook the French fries for approximately 18-20 minutes, shaking the basket or tossing the fries halfway through the cooking process to promote even browning.
• Check for doneness by testing the texture and color of the fries. 
• Adjust the cooking time as needed for your desired level of crispiness.

Are There Any Frozen Foods That Should Not Be Put in an Air Fryer?

When using an air fryer, it’s important to know what foods cannot be cooked using this method. Dairy-based items like cheese or cream-filled pastries should be avoided, as well as foods with a wet batter, such as tempura. These items can make a mess and be difficult to clean up after cooking.

Tips For Cooking Frozen Food In An Air Fryer

When it comes to cooking frozen food in an air fryer, there are a few guidelines and tips to keep in mind hat can help you achieve the best results.

1. Adjust the cooking times and temperatures based on the thickness and type of food you are cooking. Do note that the recommended cooking time listed on frozen food packages may not be suitable for an air fryer.
   
2. Lightly spray the food with oil or fat to enhance the crunch factor and flavor of your frozen food. However, moderation is key.
3. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to maintain the crispy texture. This can prevent the food from cooking unevenly and result in a soggy texture. For optimal results, cook the frozen food in a single layer or in batches if needed.
4. Preheating the air fryer before cooking frozen food. This helps to evaporate any excess water, resulting in a crispier texture.
   
5. Use a food thermometer to ensure proteins are cooked to the correct internal temperature. Measuring the internal temperature of meats using a food thermometer is crucial to ensure food safety.
   
6. Consider the properties of the frozen vegetables you choose to ensure your vegetables turn out perfectly. Delicate vegetables like broccoli may become dry when air fried, while high-water content vegetables like zucchini can become watery.
   

Bottom Line

In conclusion, air frying frozen food is a convenient and easy way to enjoy crispy meals without the hassle of traditional cooking methods. 

By following a few simple steps, such as preheating the air fryer, avoiding overcrowding the basket, and using a food thermometer, you can achieve perfect results. 

Just be sure to adjust the cooking times and temperatures based on the type and thickness of the food you are cooking. 

So go ahead and explore the wide range of air fryer frozen food options available in no time.

Happy air frying!

AirfryerAid

Source Links

• https://www.allrecipes.com/article/air-fry-meat-fish-frozen/
• https://www.thespruceeats.com/how-to-cook-frozen-food-in-the-air-fryer-5176459
• https://www.paintthekitchenred.com/the-best-frozen-foods-to-cook-in-the-air-fryer/