Air Fryer Accessories Worth Buying

Most air fryer accessories are optional. A few are genuinely useful because they protect the basket, improve cleanup, or make it easier to cook chicken consistently.

Worth buying early

These accessories earn space because they support recipes you will make often.

• Silicone-tipped tongs for turning chicken without scratching the basket
• Perforated parchment liners sized for your basket
• Oil sprayer or pastry brush for controlled oil coverage
• Instant-read thermometer for chicken, meatballs, and reheated proteins
• Soft brush or non-abrasive sponge for cleaning

Useful later

A small rack can help if your air fryer model has enough height and the food still gets airflow. Silicone baskets can make cleanup easier, but they may reduce browning if they block too much air. Test them against a recipe you already know.

Be careful with liners

Use liners only when food is weighing them down, and keep them away from the heating element. A liner that lifts during cooking can interfere with airflow or heat.

Safety notes

For chicken and meal prep, use gear that helps you cook safely and store food correctly. USDA guidance says air fryers need enough airflow, chicken should reach 165°F, and leftovers should be refrigerated within 2 hours. FDA food storage guidance also emphasizes clean surfaces, separation of raw foods, safe cooking temperatures, and cold storage.

• USDA: Air Fryers and Food Safety
• USDA: Leftovers and Food Safety
• FDA: Are You Storing Food Safely?

Helpful Gear

These are practical Amazon search links using the PrepCrisp affiliate tag. Review specific products before publishing if you want to recommend exact models.

• Silicone-tipped tongs: protects nonstick baskets.
• Perforated parchment liners: helps cleanup while preserving airflow.
• Oil sprayer: adds light even oil coverage.
• Instant-read thermometer: removes guesswork from chicken doneness.
• Non-abrasive brush: helps clean baskets without scraping.