Air Fryer Tortilla Chips: Quick, Easy, And Healthy?

Yes, you can make tortilla chips in an air fryer! They're a healthier alternative to deep-fried tortilla chips and can be made with just a few simple ingredients. All you need are tortillas, oil or cooking spray, and salt. You can also experiment with different seasonings to jazz up your chips. The process is simple: cut tortillas into triangles, season, and air fry until crispy. You can also bake them in the oven if you don't have an air fryer.

How to cut tortillas into chip shapes

There are a few different ways to cut tortillas into chip shapes, but the most common method is to cut them into triangles or wedges. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Stack 5-6 tortillas on top of each other.
• Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the stack into wedges. You can also cut the tortillas in half, then into quarters, and finally into eighths.
• If you're using a knife, you may need to do this in batches of 3-4 tortillas at a time, depending on the sharpness of your knife.
• For a more precise cut, consider using kitchen shears. Fold the tortilla in half, then in half again, and cut along the folded seams.
• You should end up with 6-8 triangle-shaped chips per tortilla, depending on the size.

Once you've cut your tortillas into chip shapes, you can proceed to cook them in an air fryer or oven, following your preferred recipe.

How to season tortilla chips

There are many ways to season tortilla chips, and it's easy to do! Here are some ideas:

Before Cooking:

• Brush or spray the tortillas with oil and sprinkle with salt.
• Brush the tortillas with lime juice.
• Sprinkle on some Cajun seasoning, chilli powder, or cayenne pepper.
• Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar.

After Cooking:

• Toss the chips with fresh lime zest and chopped or dried cilantro.
• Sprinkle with smoked paprika, cumin, and chilli powder.
• Toss the chips in ranch seasoning.
• Toss the chips in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar while they're still warm.

How to cook tortilla chips in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Corn or flour tortillas
• Oil (olive oil, avocado oil, vegetable oil, or cooking spray)
• Salt
• Other seasonings of your choice (optional)

Utensils:

• Air fryer
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Pastry brush or baster brush (optional)
• Tongs (optional)
• Wire rack (optional)

Method:

• Cut the tortillas into triangles. You can do this by slicing each tortilla into quarters, and then slicing each quarter into triangles. You can also use a pizza cutter or kitchen shears to cut the tortillas into eighths.
• Lightly brush or spray both sides of the tortilla triangles with oil and sprinkle with salt and any other desired seasonings.
• Place the tortilla triangles into the air fryer basket in a single layer. It is okay if they overlap slightly, but they may need a little longer to cook.
• Air fry the tortilla triangles at 350°F for 5-8 minutes, checking on them occasionally and shaking the basket to ensure they aren't sticking together.
• Remove the tortilla chips from the air fryer and place them on a wire rack to cool. They will continue to crisp as they cool.

Tips:

• Corn tortillas are recommended for their superior flavour and crispier texture. However, flour tortillas can also be used and may be preferred for their puffier texture.
• Avocado or olive oil spray can be used instead of brushing the tortillas with oil.
• If your tortillas are blowing around in the air fryer, place an air fryer trivet or rack over them to keep them in place while still allowing air to circulate.
• If your tortilla chips are not crispy enough, put them back into the air fryer for another minute or two.
• Seasoning options include: cilantro lime, smoky southwestern, ranch, cinnamon sugar, cool ranch, spicy, Greek, salt and vinegar, chili lime, and maple cinnamon.

How to store tortilla chips

Storing tortilla chips correctly is essential to keep them fresh and crispy. Here are some tips to ensure your tortilla chips stay in optimal condition:

Choosing the Right Container

Select an appropriate container to store your tortilla chips. Airtight containers are ideal, such as a large zip-top bag or an airtight jar. You can also use a large cookie jar, preferably bought second-hand. If you're buying in bulk, consider using multiple smaller bags or containers to maintain freshness.

Maintaining Freshness

To prolong the freshness of your tortilla chips, ensure they are completely cooled before storing them. Place the chips in an airtight container or bag at room temperature. Do not refrigerate or freeze them, as this can affect their texture and taste.

Extending Crispness

To keep your tortilla chips crispy for longer, it's crucial to minimise exposure to moisture. Avoid using a cloth bag, as the chips may become stale due to their greasy nature. Instead, opt for airtight containers. Additionally, you can place a paper towel in the container to absorb any excess moisture.

Storing in Smaller Batches

If you have a large quantity of tortilla chips, consider dividing them into smaller portions. By transferring them into several zipper bags, you can easily remove air from each bag, ensuring maximum crispness. This method is especially useful for bulk purchases or if you plan to store the chips for an extended period.

Storing Leftover Chips

When storing leftover tortilla chips, make sure to let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or resealable bag. Store-bought chips that have lost their crispness can be revitalised by placing them back in the air fryer for a minute or two.

By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy your tortilla chips for longer, ensuring they remain fresh, crispy, and delicious!

What to serve with tortilla chips

There are many dips and toppings that can be served with tortilla chips. Here are some ideas:

Dips

• Salsa, including Texas Restaurant Style Salsa, Salsa Verde, or Pineapple Salsa
• Guacamole, including a classic recipe, Three-Pepper Guacamole, or Habanero and Mango Guacamole
• Pico de Gallo, including a classic recipe or Zucchini Pico de Gallo Salsa
• Spinach Artichoke Dip
• Avocado Aioli
• Roasted Garlic Red Lentil Hummus
• Pepita Pesto
• Creamy Tahini Dip
• Spicy Vegan Butternut Queso
• Roasted Red Pepper Dip
• Jalapeno Avocado Ranch Dip
• Black Bean and Corn Salsa
• Chile con queso
• Street corn dip
• Jalapeño ranch dip
• Cheesy dips, such as Slow-Cooker Cheese Dip, Queso Fundido, or Chili Queso Dip
• Buffalo Chicken Dip
• Fresh Corn & Avocado Dip
• Taco Joe Dip
• Ground Beef Taco Dip
• Mango Salsa
• Bean dip
• Vegetarian Buffalo Dip
• Cowboy Beef Dip
• Slow-Cooker Buffalo Chicken Dip
• Spicy Honey Sriracha Game-Day Dip

Toppings

• Spicy Nacho Cheese sauce
• Homemade Salsa
• Pineapple Salsa
• Guacamole
• Toppings to make Sheet Pan Nachos, Buffalo Chicken Nachos, or Loaded Chicken Nachos
• Lime juice
• Cajun seasoning, chili powder, or cayenne pepper
• Cinnamon & sugar

Frequently asked questions