Essential Air Fryer Accessories You Will Actually Use

Most air fryer cooking needs no accessory beyond the basket and crisper plate. A few carefully chosen tools can improve accuracy, protect the coating and make room for bakes or gratins. Choose them for the recipes you make and the usable dimensions of your appliance.

The three most useful accessories

Silicone-tipped tongs

Tongs let you turn chicken, fish and vegetables without scratching the basket. A longer pair also keeps your hands away from the hot drawer.

A food thermometer

A thermometer removes guesswork with thick foods. It is useful for roast chicken, pork roast and fish. Measure in the centre of the thickest part and follow the safe internal temperature guidance for that food.

A correctly sized baking tin

A small metal, silicone or ceramic dish lets you make chocolate cake, quiche Lorraine or saucy foods. Leave space around its edges so hot air can circulate.

Accessories for particular habits

• An oil sprayer spreads a small amount over vegetables and breaded foods.
• An extra rack may create two levels if the manufacturer allows it, although shelves may need swapping.
• Ramekins suit baked eggs and individual servings.
• Perforated parchment helps with delicate foods. Read our parchment paper safety guide first.

What you can skip

Large accessory bundles soon become clutter if the pieces do not match your cooking. Avoid oversized tins, metal tools that scratch coatings and liners that block all airflow. Measure actual width, length and height instead of relying only on the advertised litre capacity.

Checking compatibility

An oven-safe accessory will generally tolerate air fryer heat within its manufacturer’s stated limit. It must not touch the heating element or walls. Plastic handles and lids not designed for cooking must stay out.

Compare shapes, materials and uses in our air fryer accessory selection. If your basket is too small for your usual portions, our air fryer comparison will help you choose a more suitable capacity.

Tongs, a thermometer and one compatible tin are a durable starting set. Add another accessory only when a specific recipe gives you a reason.