Frozen chips are convenient, but not every bag is suited to every cooking method. A product that works well in a deep-fat fryer may cook less evenly in an air fryer. Thin chips can also dry out too quickly, while thick chips may not cook through properly in a small air fryer.
So if you only look at the packaging or a claim such as “extra crispy”, you could fall into some common pitfalls.
Not all pre-fried chips are specially developed for air fryers. Air fryer chips often have a coating or are adapted for hot-air cooking. You can also cook regular oven chips in an air fryer, but the cooking time, quantity and temperature may differ.
So check whether the packaging specifically mentions an air fryer, oven or deep-fat fryer. Always follow the cooking instructions on the packaging of the product you choose.
A full basket might seem convenient, but frozen chips need space for hot air to circulate. If you overfill your air fryer, the chips are more likely to turn out limp than crispy. This is especially true of thick chips, potato wedges and curly fries.
If in doubt, cook two smaller batches instead. It takes a little longer, but gives you a more even result.
According to product information from brands such as Aviko, some varieties have a coating or are specially developed to give a crispy result. However, the final texture also depends on your appliance, the quantity of chips, their starting temperature and the cooking time.
A product claim is no substitute for checking the cut, coating, cooking advice and portion size.
The shape partly determines the cooking time and texture:
Don’t just look at the name on the packaging. Also check whether the product is pre-fried and frozen, and which cooking method is recommended.
A simple ingredient list might include potatoes and sunflower oil. Other frozen potato products may contain ingredients such as potato starch, rice flour, dextrin, raising agents or thickeners. According to the product description, these ingredients may contribute to the texture or coating, but they don’t on their own determine how crispy your portion will be.
Check the allergen information too. Some products are labelled as containing none of the 14 major EU allergens. For the latest information, always check the label, especially if the online product information is incomplete.
A 750 g bag is practical for a smaller household or for trying out different varieties. A 1 kg pack is better suited to a family or several meals. A 2.5 kg bulk pack may be a good option if you use chips frequently, but only if you have enough freezer space and will use the product regularly.
Store frozen chips at the temperature stated on the packaging. Do not refreeze the product after it has thawed. An unbroken cold chain is important during delivery; product information may state that the order is stored, packed and transported under chilled conditions.
Why it suits this profile: The 1 kg pack is a manageable size for a first purchase, and the small chip shape is well suited to everyday meals.
The product description clearly lists the ingredients as 96% potatoes and 4% sunflower oil, without making unnecessarily complicated claims about how to cook them.
1 kg pack; according to the product information, the ingredients are potatoes and sunflower oil.
Why it suits this profile: According to Aviko product information, these long, thin chips are specially developed for cooking in an air fryer.
The cooking advice isn’t limited to deep-fat frying: the product information specifically mentions the air fryer and a coating on the pre-fried chips.
750 g pack; long, thin shape; intended for air fryers according to the brand’s product information.
Why it suits this profile: This bulk pack is aimed at households that serve chips regularly or want to keep several portions in the freezer.
The 2.5 kg pack lets you cook several smaller batches, so you don’t have to fill the basket completely for a single meal.
2.5 kg pack; pre-fried and frozen; according to the product information, made with 97% potatoes and 3% sunflower oil.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Choose a product that specifically mentions air fryers. Aviko Supercrunch Airfryer Pommes Frites, Aviko Super Crunch Airfryer Thin Fries and g'woon Air Fryer French Fries are examples from the range whose product descriptions mention air fryers. The right quantity and cooking time will still depend on your appliance.
Don’t overfill the basket. Cook the chips straight from the freezer, and shake or turn them while they cook. According to the product description, a coating, ridged texture or thin cut may contribute to the texture, but the appliance and portion size also make a difference.
Follow the use-by date and storage temperature on the packaging. Keep the bag frozen and seal it well after use. Once thawed, store the product in the fridge and use it within the stated period; refreezing is not recommended.