Tired of cooking big meals just for yourself and ending up with a fridge full of leftovers? You’re not alone! Many people cooking for one find it tricky to find kitchen gadgets that are just the right size. It feels like most appliances are made for a whole family, leaving you with bulky machines that take up too much counter space and cook way too much food.
Choosing an air fryer for just one person can be a real puzzle. You don’t want something so small it can barely cook a chicken breast, but you also don’t want a giant one that feels like it’s mocking your solo dining experience. Finding that perfect balance of size, features, and price can feel like a treasure hunt.
But don’t worry! By the time you finish reading this post, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what makes a great air fryer for one. We’ll dive into what to look for, share some top picks, and help you find the perfect kitchen sidekick to make your solo meals quick, easy, and delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Our Top 5 Air Fryer For 1 Person Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Air Fryer For 1 Person Detailed Reviews
1. CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer – Digital Space-Saving Compact Air Fryer with Nonstick and Dishwasher Safe Basket
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the CHEFMAN 2 Qt Mini Air Fryer, your new kitchen sidekick for quick, healthy, and delicious meals. This compact air fryer is designed to save space and time, making it ideal for busy individuals or small households.
What We Like:
- It cooks food up to three times faster than a traditional oven.
- You can cook healthier meals using little to no oil.
- Its square basket maximizes the 2-quart capacity while the narrow design saves counter space.
- The shake notification lets you know when to toss your food for maximum crispiness.
- It’s perfectly sized for 1-2 people and easy to store.
- Cleanup is a breeze with the nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket and rack.
- Automatic shutoff ensures safety by turning off the fryer when cooking is done or the basket is removed.
- It’s cETL approved with advanced safety features and comes with a 1-year assurance from Chefman.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 2-quart capacity might be too small for families or larger meal prep.
- While it’s fast, it might not achieve the same level of browning or crispiness as larger air fryers for certain foods.
This Chefman mini air fryer is a fantastic option for anyone looking for convenient, healthier cooking in a small package. It truly simplifies meal preparation and cleanup.
2. 2.1Qt Small Air Fryer – Compact Digital Mini Airfryer with 7-in-1 Presets
Rating: 8.9/10
The TOPZEE 2.1QT Air Fryer is your new best friend for healthy and delicious cooking. It uses advanced air frying technology with 1000W of power to make your food crispy and moist with almost no oil. You can cook fries, chicken, and more without feeling guilty. This mini air fryer makes healthy eating super simple.
What We Like:
- Makes food crispy and moist with much less oil.
- Easy to use with adjustable temperature (120°F to 400°F) and a timer.
- Has 7 handy presets for different foods, plus auto shut-off and a shake reminder.
- Great for 1-2 people, perfect for small spaces like apartments or dorm rooms.
- The non-stick basket means food doesn’t stick and cleanup is a breeze.
- The basket is dishwasher safe, saving you time on cleaning.
- It cooks food fast and evenly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 2.1QT capacity is small, so it’s not ideal for cooking for larger families.
- While versatile, it might not replace all other cooking appliances for complex meals.
This air fryer is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting healthier meals without the fuss. It’s a simple and efficient way to enjoy your favorite foods.
3. COSORI Air Fryer 2.1 QT
Rating: 9.2/10
The COSORI Air Fryer 2.1 QT is a small but mighty kitchen helper. It’s perfect for making simple meals and snacks, and it can even make your leftovers taste like they were just cooked. This little air fryer uses way less oil, so your food is healthier.
What We Like:
- Dorm-Friendly Cooking: Its small size fits great in dorm rooms. You can air fry, reheat, roast, and bake all sorts of foods, from breakfast to late-night snacks.
- More Personal Moments: The compact basket heats up quickly. This means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time relaxing after a long day.
- Easier Cooking for Seniors: It’s super light at only 4.87 pounds. This makes cooking much easier than using heavy pans or a big oven.
- Cut the Oil, Cut the Fat: You can use up to 97% less oil. This lets everyone enjoy tasty food with less fat.
- Snack Maker for Families: The 2.1-quart size is just right for smaller families. It’s easy to use and clean, and snacks come out nice and crispy.
- Reheat Like Fresh Meals: The “Reheat” setting brings leftovers like fries, wings, and pizza back to their crispy best.
- Compact for Trucks and RVs: Measuring 10.1 x 8.3 x 10.5 inches, it’s ideal for small kitchens in trucks or RVs.
- Dishwasher-Safe: The nonstick parts are easy to clean in the dishwasher.
- Included Recipes: You get 30 recipes from the VeSync app, plus a sticker with 6 classic recipes to get you started.
What Could Be Improved:
- Voltage Limitation: This air fryer only works with 120V power and is meant for the US and Canada.
Overall, this air fryer is a fantastic tool for anyone looking for quick, healthier, and delicious meals. It’s especially great for those with limited kitchen space or who want to enjoy crispy food with less oil.
4. Instant Pot Vortex 2QT Mini Air Fryer
Rating: 9.4/10
The Instant Pot Vortex 2QT Mini Air Fryer is a small but mighty kitchen appliance that can do it all! It’s perfect for making quick and tasty meals for yourself or a friend. You can air fry, bake, roast, and reheat your favorite foods. This little air fryer is designed to make cooking easy and fun.
What We Like:
- It has 4-in-1 functionality: air fry, bake, roast, and reheat.
- The EvenCrisp technology makes food golden and crispy.
- One-touch smart programs let you cook things like wings and cookies easily.
- It heats up fast, so you can cook from frozen to done in minutes.
- The temperature range is 120 to 400° F, giving you lots of cooking options.
- Clean-up is a breeze because the basket and tray are non-stick and dishwasher-safe.
- It’s a kitchen must-have for quick meals and snacks, perfect for 1-2 people.
- You can find over 100 recipes in the free Instant Brands Connect App.
- Safety features like overheat protection are included.
- Its compact design fits nicely on your counter and comes in a cool black color.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 2QT capacity might be too small for cooking for more than two people.
This mini air fryer is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, especially for those who want simple and delicious meals. Its ease of use and versatility make it a real winner.
5. COMFEE’ Compact 2.1 Quart Air Fryer with 12 Menu Options
Rating: 9.4/10
Looking for a healthier way to enjoy your favorite crispy foods? The COMFEE’ Compact 2.1 Quart Air Fryer is here to help! This handy appliance lets you cook delicious meals with up to 90% less oil than traditional frying. It’s perfect for making everything from crunchy fries and juicy chicken wings to even sweet treats. With its easy-to-use controls and rapid air circulation, you can whip up tasty dishes quickly and evenly. Plus, its compact size makes it ideal for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or even taking on the go!
What We Like:
- Cooks food with significantly less oil, making meals healthier.
- Offers 12 pre-set menu options for a variety of foods, from snacks to desserts.
- Features a 360-degree rapid air circulation system for faster, even cooking.
- Its compact design is perfect for saving counter and cabinet space.
- Includes safety features like auto shut-off and overheat protection.
- The nonstick fry basket is removable and dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 2.1-quart capacity might be small for cooking for larger families or groups.
- While it has many menu options, some users might prefer more advanced customization.
This COMFEE’ air fryer is a fantastic option for anyone wanting healthier, quicker meals without sacrificing flavor. It’s a smart addition to any kitchen, especially for those with limited space.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Your Solo Air Fryer Companion
Choosing the right air fryer when you’re cooking just for yourself can feel a little tricky. You don’t need a giant machine that takes up all your counter space. This guide will help you find the perfect air fryer for one.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important things in mind:
- Size Matters: For one person, a smaller capacity is best. Look for air fryers that hold around 1 to 3 quarts. This is enough for a single serving of fries, chicken tenders, or vegetables.
- Simple Controls: Easy-to-use dials or digital displays make cooking a breeze. You want to be able to set the temperature and time without a fuss.
- Compact Design: A smaller air fryer won’t clutter your kitchen. Check the dimensions to make sure it fits nicely on your counter or in a cabinet.
- Easy Cleaning: Since you’re cooking for one, you’ll be using it often. A dishwasher-safe basket and tray make cleanup quick and easy.
- Versatility: Some air fryers can do more than just fry. Look for ones that can also roast, bake, or reheat. This gives you more cooking options.
Important Materials
The materials of your air fryer affect its durability and how it cooks.
- Basket and Tray: Most air fryer baskets are made from non-stick materials like ceramic or Teflon. Ceramic is often preferred because it’s scratch-resistant and PFOA-free.
- Housing: The outside of the air fryer is usually made from durable plastic or stainless steel. Stainless steel looks sleek and is very strong, but plastic can be lighter and more affordable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Little details can make a big difference in your air fryer experience.
- Even Cooking: A good air fryer circulates hot air efficiently. This means your food cooks evenly without you having to shake the basket too much. Check reviews to see if users say the cooking is consistent.
- Noise Level: Some air fryers can be quite loud. If you prefer a quieter kitchen, look for models that are known to be quieter.
- Preheating Time: A faster preheat time means you get to your delicious food sooner.
- Durability: Well-built air fryers last longer. Look for sturdy construction and good quality components.
User Experience and Use Cases
Cooking for one with an air fryer is super convenient.
- Quick Meals: Need a fast lunch or dinner? An air fryer is perfect for cooking things like fish fillets, chicken breasts, or even a small steak in minutes.
- Healthier Options: You get that crispy fried taste with much less oil. This makes your favorite comfort foods a bit healthier.
- Snack Time: Craving some crispy fries, onion rings, or mozzarella sticks? Your personal air fryer is your best friend.
- Reheating Leftovers: Tired of soggy microwave leftovers? An air fryer brings back that crispy texture to pizza, fries, and more.
Choosing a small air fryer is a smart move for anyone cooking for themselves. It saves space, cooks food quickly, and makes healthy eating easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size air fryer is best for one person?
A: An air fryer with a capacity of 1 to 3 quarts is usually perfect for cooking for one person.
Q: Are ceramic air fryer baskets better than non-stick?
A: Ceramic is often preferred because it is scratch-resistant and usually PFOA-free, making it a healthier choice.
Q: How do I know if an air fryer will cook food evenly?
A: Look for reviews that mention good air circulation and consistent cooking results. This means the hot air is reaching all parts of the food.
Q: Can I bake in a small air fryer?
A: Yes, many small air fryers can also bake small items like muffins or cookies. Check the product description for baking features.
Q: How important is the noise level of an air fryer?
A: This depends on your preference. If you like a quiet kitchen, choose a model known for being quieter during operation.
Q: What does “PFOA-free” mean for my air fryer basket?
A: PFOA is a chemical that can be found in some non-stick coatings. PFOA-free means the coating does not contain this chemical, which is considered safer.
Q: How much counter space will a small air fryer take up?
A: Small air fryers are designed to be compact. Their dimensions are usually listed online, so you can check if they fit your available space.
Q: Is it easy to clean a single-person air fryer?
A: Most small air fryers have dishwasher-safe baskets and trays, making cleanup very simple after cooking.
Q: What are some good foods to cook in a small air fryer for one?
A: You can cook chicken tenders, fish fillets, fries, vegetables, small burgers, and reheat leftovers like pizza.
Q: How long does it usually take to cook food in a small air fryer?
A: Cooking times vary, but many items cook in 10-20 minutes, especially for single servings.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!