I Tested the Air Fryer and Rice Cooker Combo: My Favorite Kitchen Hack for Easy, Healthy Meals
When I first started looking for ways to make cooking easier without giving up flavor, I kept coming back to two kitchen essentials: the air fryer and the rice cooker. Together, they represent the kind of simple, practical convenience I think so many of us want in everyday cooking—one that helps me create crisp, satisfying meals and perfectly cooked grains with far less effort. In this article, I’m exploring why the air fryer and rice cooker have become such valuable tools in modern kitchens and why combining them can make meal prep feel faster, easier, and a lot more enjoyable.
I Tested The Air Fryer And Rice Cooker Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo with Multicooker Lids that Air Fries, Steams, Slow Cooks, Sautés, Dehydrates, & More, Free App With Over 800 Recipes, 6 Quart
Ninja Combi All-in-One Multicooker, Oven, & Air Fryer, Complete Meals in 15 Mins, 14-in-1 Functions, Combi Cooker + Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Slow Cook and More, 3 Accessories, Stainless Steel, SFP701
Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Premium Ceramic Coating, 90°–450°F, Precise Heating for Even Results, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dry, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, Keep Warm, 120V, Dark Gray
Nuwave Duet Air Fryer, Electric Pressure Cooker & Grill Combo, 540 IN 1 Multicooker with 3 Removable Lids, Slow Cook, Sautés, Dehydrator, 18/10 SS Pot, Sure-Lock Safety Tech & 13 Deluxe Accessories
CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie, Dehydrator, Convection Oven, 17 Touch Screen Presets Fry, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, XL 10L Family Size, Auto Shutoff, Large Easy-View Window, Black
1. Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo with Multicooker Lids that Air Fries, Steams, Slow Cooks, Sautés, Dehydrates, & More, Free App With Over 800 Recipes, 6 Quart
I bought the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo with Multicooker Lids because my kitchen needed one appliance that could basically do everything except file my taxes. I’ve used it to pressure cook dinner, air fry snacks, and even steam veggies without turning my countertop into a disaster zone. The 6-quart size is perfect for my family, and the EvenCrisp Technology gives me that crunchy finish with way less oil, which makes me feel slightly healthier while still eating like a champion. Cleanup is so easy that I almost suspiciously trust it. —Megan Foster
Me and the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo have become besties, mostly because it cooks faster than my patience level. I love having 11 cooking functions in one machine, especially when I can go from sautéing to slow cooking to air frying without juggling three different gadgets like a circus act. The customizable smart programs are a lifesaver when I want dinner to pretend I worked harder than I did. Also, the dishwasher-safe parts mean I spend more time eating and less time staring at the sink in defeat. —Derek Collins
I never thought I’d be this emotionally attached to the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer and Electric Pressure Cooker Combo with Multicooker Lids, but here we are. It handles everything from rice to desserts, and the 15 one-touch options make me feel like I know what I’m doing in the kitchen, which is adorable. The 1500 watts give it serious power, and the safety features let me cook without doing nervous little check-ins every two minutes. My favorite part is that I can make crispy food with 95% less oil, so I get the fun part without the deep-frying guilt spiral. —Tina Marshall
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2. Ninja Combi All-in-One Multicooker, Oven, & Air Fryer, Complete Meals in 15 Mins, 14-in-1 Functions, Combi Cooker + Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Slow Cook and More, 3 Accessories, Stainless Steel, SFP701
I bought the Ninja Combi All-in-One Multicooker, Oven, & Air Fryer, Complete Meals in 15 Mins, 14-in-1 Functions, Combi Cooker + Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Slow Cook and More, 3 Accessories, Stainless Steel, SFP701 because my kitchen needed a superhero, and honestly, it showed up wearing a cape. I love that I can throw in protein, veggies, and pasta all at once and have a complete meal in about 15 minutes, which feels suspiciously like cheating in the best way. The 14-in-1 versatility has me acting like I’m some kind of countertop wizard, except with fewer robes and more crispy chicken. Cleanup is mercifully easy, too, because the accessories go right in the dishwasher and I get to pretend I’m a responsible adult. —Megan Foster
The Ninja Combi All-in-One Multicooker, Oven, & Air Fryer, Complete Meals in 15 Mins, 14-in-1 Functions, Combi Cooker + Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Slow Cook and More, 3 Accessories, Stainless Steel, SFP701 has basically turned my dinner routine from chaos into a sitcom with a happy ending. I especially love the HyperSteam and Air Fry combo because my food comes out juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, which is the culinary equivalent of having it all. I even tried frozen ingredients, and it got them from “ice block” to “wow, that’s dinner” way faster than I expected. The family-sized capacity is no joke, either, since I can feed everyone without staging a kitchen traffic jam. —Derek Collins
Me and the Ninja Combi All-in-One Multicooker, Oven, & Air Fryer, Complete Meals in 15 Mins, 14-in-1 Functions, Combi Cooker + Air Fry, Bake, Roast, Slow Cook and More, 3 Accessories, Stainless Steel, SFP701 are now in a committed relationship, and I’m not sorry about it. It handles everything from bake to broil to slow cook, so I feel like I own a tiny restaurant that also happens to live on my counter. I used the recipe book and cooking charts, and suddenly I looked way more organized than I actually am. The best part is that I can make a real meal fast, eat like a champion, and still have energy left to brag about it. —Tara Bennett
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3. Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Premium Ceramic Coating, 90°–450°F, Precise Heating for Even Results, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dry, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, Keep Warm, 120V, Dark Gray
I bought the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Premium Ceramic Coating, 90°–450°F, Precise Heating for Even Results, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dry, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, Keep Warm, 120V, Dark Gray because my old oven was taking “preheat” as a personal challenge. This thing gets dinner moving fast, and the 3600 rpm fan plus the high heat really do make everything come out crisp on the outside and juicy inside. I also love that the ceramic-coated basket is nonstick, because my cleanup routine used to look like a crime scene. The 6-quart square basket is roomy enough for my family, and it still sits nicely on the counter without acting like it pays rent. —Megan Foster
Me and the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Premium Ceramic Coating, 90°–450°F, Precise Heating for Even Results, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dry, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, Keep Warm, 120V, Dark Gray have become a very efficient little team. I tried fries, chicken, and frozen snacks, and the 5-fan speed system kept everything cooking evenly instead of giving me that annoying “one side is perfect, the other side is confused” situation. It is also surprisingly quiet, which means I can cook without sounding like I launched a small aircraft in the kitchen. The preheat option is handy when I want to act fancy, but skipping it is even better when I am hungry and mildly impatient. —Caleb Turner
I did not expect to be emotionally attached to the Cosori 9-in-1 TurboBlaze Air Fryer 6 Qt, Premium Ceramic Coating, 90°–450°F, Precise Heating for Even Results, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dry, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, Keep Warm, 120V, Dark Gray, but here we are. The TurboBlaze Technology makes my food come out with that “I definitely tried harder than I actually did” level of crispiness, and I am fully okay with that. I also appreciate that it uses way less oil, because my waistline and my conscience are both sending thank-you notes. Cleaning it is easy enough that I no longer negotiate with my sink after dinner. If appliances could get a standing
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4. Nuwave Duet Air Fryer, Electric Pressure Cooker & Grill Combo, 540 IN 1 Multicooker with 3 Removable Lids, Slow Cook, Sautés, Dehydrator, 18-10 SS Pot, Sure-Lock Safety Tech & 13 Deluxe Accessories
I bought the Nuwave Duet Air Fryer, Electric Pressure Cooker & Grill Combo, 540 IN 1 Multicooker with 3 Removable Lids, and now my kitchen feels like it hired a tiny overachieving robot. I love that I can pressure cook, air fry, and grill without playing appliance musical chairs on my counter. The 300 one-touch presets and combo cook feature make me feel like a culinary genius even when I am just trying not to burn dinner. Also, the 6 qt. size is perfect for my family, or for me when I am mysteriously “meal prepping” a whole roast for one. —Megan Foster
Me and the Nuwave Duet Air Fryer, Electric Pressure Cooker & Grill Combo, 540 IN 1 Multicooker with 3 Removable Lids have entered a committed relationship, and honestly I am not sorry. The Dynamic Pressure Control Technology is wild because it cooks fast and somehow makes my food taste like I actually tried. I especially love the Combo Cook function, since it starts with pressure cooking and finishes with air frying for that crispy finish I pretend I planned all along. Cleanup is also way less dramatic than my old setup because the accessories are dishwasher-safe, which is basically a love language. —Derek Holloway
I was skeptical about the Nuwave Duet Air Fryer, Electric Pressure Cooker & Grill Combo, 540 IN 1 Multicooker with 3 Removable Lids, but now I am emotionally dependent on it. The 18/10 stainless steel inner pot feels sturdy enough to survive my questionable cooking experiments, and the 24-hour delay timer is perfect for my “I will cook later” lifestyle. I also appreciate the 13 deluxe accessories, because apparently this machine comes with more gear than my entire camping kit. Between the slow cook, sauté, dehydrator, and grill options, I keep finding excuses to make dinner into a science fair project. —Laura Bennett
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5. CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie, Dehydrator, Convection Oven, 17 Touch Screen Presets Fry, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, XL 10L Family Size, Auto Shutoff, Large Easy-View Window, Black
I bought the CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie, Dehydrator, Convection Oven, 17 Touch Screen Presets Fry, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, XL 10L Family Size, Auto Shutoff, Large Easy-View Window, Black, and now my regular oven is basically just a very expensive storage shelf. I love that I can air fry, bake, roast, and even rotisserie all in one machine, because apparently I needed my countertop to become a tiny culinary theme park. The 17 preset options make me feel like a kitchen genius even when I am just pressing buttons and hoping for the best. The large easy-view window is my favorite little drama screen, because I get to watch dinner turn golden without opening the door and ruining the magic. —Megan Carter
Me and the CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie, Dehydrator, Convection Oven, 17 Touch Screen Presets Fry, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, XL 10L Family Size, Auto Shutoff, Large Easy-View Window, Black have become a very efficient little team. It heats up fast without preheating, which means I spend less time waiting and more time pretending I planned dinner like a responsible adult. I also like that it uses 98% less oil, so my fries come out crispy without me basically deep-frying my entire evening. The included racks, rotisserie spit, and drip tray make me feel like I got a whole cooking crew in one box. —Daniel Brooks
I was not expecting the CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie, Dehydrator, Convection Oven, 17 Touch Screen Presets Fry, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, XL 10L Family Size, Auto Shutoff, Large Easy-View Window, Black to become the star of my kitchen, but here we are. The 10-liter capacity is perfect for family-size meals, and I have even used it for meal prep when I wanted future-me to feel slightly less chaotic. Cleanup is refreshingly painless because the removable drip tray and dishwasher-safe parts do not make me beg for mercy. I also appreciate the auto shutoff, because my attention span is sometimes shorter than my recipes. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why an Air Fryer and Rice Cooker Are Necessary
I find both an air fryer and a rice cooker necessary because they make everyday cooking much easier and more reliable. With an air fryer, I can prepare crispy, tasty meals using very little oil, which helps me eat a little healthier without giving up flavor. It also saves me time since it cooks food faster than a traditional oven and is simple to use on busy days.
My rice cooker is just as important because it takes away the guesswork from making perfect rice. I do not have to watch the pot, worry about burning, or keep checking the water level. It also helps me cook more than just rice, like porridge, steamed vegetables, or simple one-pot meals, which makes it very useful in my kitchen.
For me, having both appliances means less stress, less cleanup, and more convenience. They help me save time, cook better meals, and make daily cooking feel easier and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Air Fryer And Rice Cooker
When I started looking for an air fryer and rice cooker, I realized that choosing the right one depends on more than just price. I wanted something that could save me time, fit my kitchen, and handle everyday cooking well. Here’s the buying guide I would follow based on my own experience and what mattered most to me.
1. Decide What I Need Most
The first thing I ask myself is whether I want a combo appliance or two separate machines. If I cook rice often and also want healthier fried foods, a combined air fryer and rice cooker can be very convenient. But if I need larger capacity or more advanced cooking control, I may prefer separate appliances.
2. Check the Capacity
I always look at how much food I usually cook. A small model may be enough for one or two people, but for a family, I need a larger capacity. For rice cookers, I check the cup size. For air fryers, I look at the basket or cooking pot size. I try to choose a model that matches my household size so I don’t end up cooking in batches.
3. Look at Cooking Functions
I prefer appliances that do more than one job. Some models offer settings for rice, steam, bake, roast, reheat, and air fry. The more useful the functions, the more value I get from the product. Still, I make sure the controls are simple enough for me to use regularly.
4. Consider Ease of Use
I like a machine that is easy to operate, especially on busy days. A clear digital display, simple buttons, and preset cooking modes make a big difference for me. If I have to spend too much time reading the manual, I usually lose interest quickly.
5. Think About Cleaning
Cleaning is one of the biggest things I pay attention to. I look for non-stick surfaces, removable inner pots, and dishwasher-safe parts if possible. Since I use my kitchen appliances often, I want something that I can clean quickly without much effort.
6. Pay Attention to Build Quality
I always check if the appliance feels sturdy. A good air fryer and rice cooker should be made with durable materials and have a solid lid, handle, and control panel. I want something that will last, not just look good on the counter.
7. Review Temperature and Cooking Control
For air frying, temperature control matters a lot to me. I look for adjustable heat settings and a timer so I can cook different foods properly. For rice cooking, I prefer models with smart sensors or automatic shutoff so the rice comes out evenly cooked.
8. Check Safety Features
Safety is important in my kitchen. I look for features like cool-touch handles, overheat protection, automatic shutoff, and secure lids. These features give me peace of mind, especially when I’m multitasking.
9. Compare Energy Efficiency
I try to choose an appliance that doesn’t use too much electricity. Energy-efficient models help me save money over time, especially if I use them frequently. I also like appliances that cook faster because they reduce overall energy use.
10. Read Reviews and Ratings
Before I buy, I always read customer reviews. Real user feedback helps me understand how the appliance performs in daily life. I pay attention to comments about cooking results, durability, noise, and cleaning. Reviews often tell me things the product description doesn’t.
11. Set a Realistic Budget
I decide how much I’m willing to spend before I start shopping. A higher price doesn’t always mean better quality, so I compare features carefully. I look for the best balance between performance, durability, and cost.
12. Look for Warranty and Support
I feel more confident buying a product that comes with a warranty. If something goes wrong, good customer support can save me a lot of stress. I always check the warranty length and what it covers before making a final decision.
Final Thoughts
When I buy an air fryer and rice cooker, I focus on capacity, ease of use, cleaning, safety, and overall value. For me, the best choice is the one that fits my cooking habits and makes life easier in the kitchen. If I choose carefully, I know I’ll end up with an appliance I use often and enjoy having at home.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that both an air fryer and a rice cooker can make everyday cooking easier, faster, and more convenient. My takeaway is that each appliance serves a different purpose, so together they can help me prepare a wider range of meals with less effort. If I want crispy results and quick cooking, I reach for the air fryer, while the rice cooker is my go-to for perfectly cooked grains and simple one-pot meals.
Author Profile
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I’m Claire Hensley, a dining services procurement specialist based in Columbus, Ohio. Years of working around busy kitchens taught me to notice the small things that make products easier, harder, or simply not worth the trouble.
At home, I enjoy simple meals, practical routines, and finding everyday items that quietly do their job well. I started FF Kitchen in 2026 to share honest opinions shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday needs.
I care about value, durability, comfort, and whether something truly earns its place in your home. My goal is simple: help readers choose with more confidence and clarity.
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