Even a noticeable shift in cooking time can mean the difference between underdone, just right and dry or overly dark food. General air fryer times are useful—but only as a starting point you check against your actual portion and appliance.
Use broad, realistic ranges. Start at the early end with a new food or appliance, check early, then add time only when needed. A full basket, thick pieces or another air fryer can change the process substantially.
Broad cooking-time ranges
| Food | Temperature | Broad starting range | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frozen fries | 180–200°C | 12–30 min | Shake a large portion regularly. |
| Potato wedges | 180–200°C | 18–35 min | Wedge thickness and fill level. |
| Broccoli | 180–200°C | 7–20 min | Do not overfill the basket. |
| Frozen nuggets | 180–200°C | 8–22 min | Shake or turn for even browning. |
| Chicken breast | 170–190°C | 12–30 min | Thickness and safe doneness. |
| Salmon fillet | 170–190°C | 7–22 min | Fillet thickness. |
Why general times often do not fit
- Your air fryer: Basket size, airflow and heating behaviour vary by model.
- Your portion: A small portion cooks differently from a full basket.
- Size and shape: Thin pieces, cubes and larger pieces take on heat differently.
- Starting condition: Fresh, chilled and frozen food do not start in the same place.
- Your target: Tender, golden and extra crisp are different endpoints.
Treat the early end of a range as the first sensible check point, not a guaranteed finish time.
Find a better starting point with Frygo
Frygo considers the food, preparation, portion, appliance and desired result. That gives you a more useful starting point and reminders to shake, turn and check.
Your air fryer. Your portion. A better plan.
Frygo turns a general table into a cooking plan that better fits your kitchen.
Note: These are starting values, not guarantees. Check doneness and follow food and appliance guidance.