Pin it Crispy, golden tortilla chips made in the air fryer served with a fresh, zesty salsa. An easy, budget-friendly snack perfect for sharing.
I first tried making tortilla chips in our air fryer when friends dropped by unexpectedly. They were blown away by the crunchy texture and fresh salsa, and now it's my go-to party snack.
Ingredients
- Corn tortillas: 8 small tortillas, cut into wedges
- Olive oil or spray oil: 2 tbsp for brushing the chips
- Sea salt: ½ tsp for sprinkling
- Chili powder (optional): ½ tsp for added spice
- Ripe tomatoes: 4 medium, diced
- Red onion: ½ small, finely chopped
- Jalapeño (optional): 1, seeded and minced
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Fresh cilantro: ¼ cup, chopped
- Lime juice: From 1 lime
- Salt: ½ tsp for the salsa
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp for the salsa
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer:
- Set air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
- Cut tortillas:
- Slice corn tortillas into 6 or 8 wedges each.
- Oil and season:
- Brush or spray wedges on both sides with olive oil. Sprinkle with sea salt and chili powder if desired.
- Arrange and cook:
- Place tortilla pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook 5–7 minutes, shaking midway, until golden and crispy. Cool on a rack.
- Make salsa:
- Combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, salt and black pepper in a bowl. Mix and let sit 5–10 minutes for flavors to blend.
- Serve:
- Enjoy crispy chips with homemade salsa.
Pin it My kids love helping to arrange the tortilla pieces and stirring the salsa. Making this snack together has become part of our weekend routine.
Variations
Add a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika to the chips for extra flavor. Mix diced avocado, corn or black beans into salsa for more texture.
Tips for Crispy Chips
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket—work in batches. Let chips cool completely for maximum crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chips with guacamole or bean dip if desired. Pair the salsa with grilled veggies or tacos for a festive spread.
Pin it I love serving these tortilla chips fresh out of the air fryer. The salsa adds a bright kick and makes this snack a crowd favorite.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the chips crispy in the air fryer?
Brush or spray the tortilla wedges with olive oil and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping. Cook at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- → Can I customize the salsa ingredients?
Yes, you can add diced avocado, corn, or black beans to personalize the salsa and adjust spiciness by adding or omitting jalapeño.
- → Can I prepare the chips and salsa ahead of time?
While the salsa can sit to meld flavors, chips are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- → Are these chips vegan and dairy-free?
Yes, using corn tortillas, olive oil, and fresh vegetables ensures the snack is suitable for vegan and dairy-free diets.
- → Can I use regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, bake the tortilla wedges on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispness.