Air Fryer Conversion Calculator (Oven → Air Fryer)
Convert oven recipes to air fryer settings — reduce temperature by 25°F and time by 20-25 %.
What this calculates
Air fryers cook faster and hotter than ovens because hot air circulates directly around food. The standard conversion: reduce oven temperature by 25 °F and time by 20-25 %. This calculator does the math for any oven recipe, with adjustments for different food categories.
Formula & how it works
Air fryer temp = oven_temp − 25 °F (or 15 °C). Air fryer time = oven_time × 0.75 to 0.80. Adjust by food type: thicker proteins reduce time less (×0.85), thin items reduce more (×0.70). Always check 5 min early — air fryers vary widely by brand and basket size.
Worked example
Oven recipe: chicken thighs at 400 °F for 35 minutes. Air fryer: 400 − 25 = 375 °F for 35 × 0.78 = 27 minutes. Check at 22 minutes. Fries: oven 425 °F / 25 min → air fryer 400 °F / 18 minutes, shake basket midway.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to preheat an air fryer?
Most modern air fryers don't require it — they reach temp in 2-3 minutes. Recipes from before 2020 sometimes specify preheating. Check your manufacturer's guide; most say it's optional.
Why reduce temperature?
Air fryer fans push hot air directly at food, creating effective cooking temperature about 25 °F higher than the dial reads. Without reduction, food browns too fast outside before cooking through.
Single layer rule?
Yes — overlapping food blocks airflow and creates uneven cooking. Cook in batches if needed. Smaller air fryers (3 quart) often need 2-3 batches for a family meal.
Best foods?
Anything you'd normally roast or fry: vegetables, chicken pieces, fish, frozen french fries, reheating pizza, small baked goods. Worst: anything with wet batter (it'll fly around), large roasts (use the oven).