How Long to Cook Rice in Air Fryer
Air fryers are not ideal for cooking raw rice, but they excel at cooking rice-based items and cauliflower rice.
How long to cook rice in air fryer?
Regular rice takes 25-30 minutes in an air fryer at 320°F with a special pan. However, air fryers work better for rice items like cauliflower rice (10-12 min), rice balls (8-12 min), and rice paper rolls (8-10 min) at 375°F.
Air Fryer Rice Cooking Times
Air fryers are not ideal for cooking raw rice because they circulate hot air rather than using water or steam. However, they excel at cooking rice-based items and cauliflower rice.
| Item | Cook Time | Water | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| White Rice (with pan) | 25-30 min | 1:1.5 | 320°F, oven-safe pan required |
| Cauliflower Rice | 10-12 min | None | 375°F, shake halfway |
| Rice Balls (Frozen) | 8-12 min | None | 375°F, golden crispy |
| Rice Pudding | 25-30 min | With milk | 320°F, in ramekin |
| Rice Paper Rolls | 8-10 min | None | 375°F, spray with oil |
How Long to Cook Rice in Air Fryer?
Regular rice takes 25-30 minutes in an air fryer at 320°F. This is not the best method, but it works in a pinch.
Air Fryer Rice Method:
- Use oven-safe pan that fits in basket
- Add 1 cup rice and 1.5 cups boiling water
- Cover tightly with foil
- Air fry at 320°F for 25-30 minutes
- Let rest 5 minutes covered
- Fluff and serve
Better option: Use a stove, rice cooker, or Instant Pot for regular rice.
How Long to Cook Cauliflower Rice in Air Fryer?
Cauliflower rice takes 10-12 minutes at 375°F in the air fryer. This method creates the crispiest texture.
- Toss cauliflower rice with 1 tablespoon oil
- Spread in air fryer basket in thin layer
- Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes
- Shake basket halfway through
- Season after cooking
How Long to Cook Rice Balls in Air Fryer?
Rice balls (arancini) take 8-12 minutes at 375°F. Air fryer makes them crispy without deep frying.
- Spray rice balls with cooking oil
- Place in single layer, not touching
- Air fry at 375°F for 8-12 minutes
- Turn halfway for even browning
- Internal temp should reach 165°F
How Long to Cook Rice Paper Rolls in Air Fryer?
Rice paper rolls take 8-10 minutes at 375°F. They become crispy like spring rolls.
- Spray rolls with oil on all sides
- Place in basket without overlapping
- Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes
- Turn halfway for even crisping
Frequently Asked Questions
Rice in air fryer takes 25-30 minutes at 320°F using an oven-safe pan with water. The air fryer is not ideal for cooking regular rice - a stove, rice cooker, or Instant Pot works better.
Yes, but it is not the best method. You need an oven-safe pan that fits in the basket, and it takes longer than traditional methods. Air fryers are better for reheating rice or cooking rice-based items.
Cauliflower rice takes 10-12 minutes in an air fryer at 375°F. Toss with oil, spread in basket, and shake halfway through. This creates a nice crispy texture.
Rice balls (arancini) take 8-12 minutes in an air fryer at 375°F. Spray with oil for crispier exterior. Frozen rice balls may need 2-3 extra minutes.
Rice pudding takes 25-30 minutes in an air fryer at 320°F. Use an oven-safe ramekin. Stir halfway through. Cover with foil if top browns too quickly.
Rice paper rolls take 8-10 minutes in an air fryer at 375°F. Spray with cooking oil for crispy texture. Turn halfway through for even browning.