GUIDE • 8 MIN READ
How to Convert Any Oven Recipe to an Air Fryer
The simple, reliable method to turn any oven recipe into perfect air fryer results — with temperature chart and real examples.
Most recipes are written for a regular oven. When you try them in an air fryer without adjusting, the food often comes out overcooked on the outside and underdone in the middle — or just dried out.
The good news is that converting is straightforward once you know the rule.
The Basic Conversion Rule
For the vast majority of recipes, use this simple formula:
- Temperature: Lower the oven temperature by 25°F (about 15°C)
- Time: Reduce the cooking time by roughly 20%
Example: A recipe that says 400°F for 30 minutes in the oven becomes approximately 375°F for 24 minutes in the air fryer.
Oven to Air Fryer Temperature Chart
Here’s a quick reference for the most common oven temperatures (including the ones people search for most often):
| Oven Temp | Air Fryer Temp | Time Adjustment |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 325°F (160°C) | Reduce by ~20% |
| 375°F (190°C) | 350°F (175°C) | Reduce by ~20% |
| 400°F (200°C) | 375°F (190°C) | Reduce by ~20% |
| 425°F (220°C) | 400°F (205°C) | Reduce by ~20% |
| 450°F (230°C) | 425°F (220°C) | Reduce by ~20% |
Step-by-Step: How to Convert Any Recipe
- Look at the original oven temperature and time.
- Subtract 25°F from the temperature.
- Multiply the original time by 0.8 (or just take off about 20%).
- Preheat your air fryer for 3 minutes if you want extra crispiness.
- Cook in a single layer — don’t overcrowd the basket.
- Check the food 3–5 minutes earlier than the calculated time. Air fryers cook fast and vary by model.
- Flip or shake halfway through for even results.
Real Examples
Chicken breasts – Oven: 400°F for 25 minutes → Air fryer: 375°F for about 18–20 minutes
Roasted vegetables – Oven: 425°F for 30 minutes → Air fryer: 400°F for about 22–24 minutes
Cookies – Oven: 350°F for 12 minutes → Air fryer: 325°F for 7–9 minutes
Salmon – Oven: 400°F for 15 minutes → Air fryer: 375°F for 10–12 minutes
Important Tips for Best Results
- Always start checking early the first time you convert a recipe.
- Thicker cuts of meat may need a slightly smaller time reduction so the inside can catch up.
- Frozen foods often need less of a temperature drop (sometimes you can keep the same temp and just reduce time).
- Use a meat thermometer for proteins — 165°F for chicken, 145°F for fish and most steaks.
- If the outside is browning too fast, drop the temperature another 10–15°F and add a couple of minutes.
Want Instant Results?
Instead of doing the math every time, just plug the oven temperature and time into our free converter. It applies the correct adjustments automatically and gives you the recommended air fryer settings in seconds.
Try the Free Oven to Air Fryer Converter →
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 400°F in an air fryer?
A 400°F oven recipe usually converts to about 375°F in the air fryer, with the time reduced by roughly 20%.
What is 350°F in an air fryer?
350°F in the oven becomes approximately 325°F in the air fryer.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
For most foods, a 2–3 minute preheat helps with crispiness, but it’s not always required. Follow your model’s manual if it gives specific advice.
Can I convert baking recipes (cakes, cookies, bread)?
Yes, but be more careful. Lower the temperature by 25°F and start checking earlier than the calculated time. Air fryers can brown the top faster than a conventional oven.
Still converting recipes by guesswork? Use the free Oven to Air Fryer Converter →