Recipes | Recipes By Equipment | Air Fryer

Air Fryer Kale

Madison Wetherill 03/31/2025

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Crispy, flavorful and easy to make, this Air Fryer Kale with lemon aioli dipping sauce is the perfect way to turn simple greens into a delicious snack or side dish.

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A person's hand dips a kale chip into a small jar of creamy white sauce. The plate is garnished with crispy kale chips and lemon wedges.

Easy Air Fryer Kale Recipe

I’ve always loved crispy kale chips, but they can be tricky to get just right in the oven. The air fryer makes it so much easier, turning the leaves perfectly crisp in just a few minutes.

A bright, garlicky lemon aioli takes this simple kale recipe to the next level. It’s one of my favorite ways to add a little crunch to a meal or enjoy a quick, flavorful snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s quick and easy. Just toss the kale in olive oil and seasonings, air fry for a few minutes, whip up the lemon aioli, and you’re done!
There’s no need to preheat the air fryer. Unlike traditional roasting, the air fryer will come up to temperature quickly, saving you time while achieving perfectly crispy kale.
You get an amazing crispy and creamy combo. The crunchy kale pairs perfectly with the delicious, rich aioli for the ideal contrast of textures and flavors.

Bowl of kale leaves next to bowls of olive oil, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper sit on a blue surface, ready to transform into a crispy air fryer kale delight. Pair it with zesty lemon aioli for an irresistible combination.

Ingredients

Stock up on these simple ingredients to make air fryer kale at home:

Free Air Fryer Cook Time Printable

Learn how to cook anything in your air fryer with our free cook time chart!

Air Fryer Kale

Kale: A sturdy and earthy green, kale crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.
Nutritional yeast: Adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Salt & pepper: A classic seasoning combo that enhances the kale’s flavor.
Olive oil: Helps the kale crisp up while adding richness.

Lemon Aioli

My lemon aioli recipe is super simple to make, and it tastes fantastic on sandwiches, too!

Mayo: Provides a rich, creamy base that balances the bright citrus and garlic flavors.
Lemon zest: Adds a fresh, zesty kick that amps up the aioli’s tangy flavor.
Garlic: A single clove of grated garlic gives the aioli a bold, savory flavor.
Lemon juice: Brings acidity and brightness to the dip.
Dijon mustard: Adds a bit of tang and subtle heat.
Salt & pepper: Offers simple seasoning that brings out the natural flavor of all of the other ingredients.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some easy ways to adapt this recipe to your preferences:

Garlic powder: If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, you can use ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder instead. The flavor will be a bit milder but still delicious.

Different seasonings: Try adding different spices to the kale before air frying. A pinch of smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder can bring extra depth and a hint of smoky heat.

Vegan option: Swap the mayo for a plant-based alternative to make the aioli vegan.

Kale will shrink when cooked, so don't cut your pieces too small!

How to Make Air Fryer Kale Chips

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Air Fryer Kale:

Air fryer with kale, next to bowls of nutritional yeast, olive oil, ground pepper, and salt, placed on a blue surface with a lemon half.

A hand dips a piece of kale chip into a small glass jar of white dipping sauce, with more kale chips and lemon slices visible in the background.

Wash and thoroughly dry the kale. Cut or tear it into 2- to 3-inch pieces. Air fry the kale at 375ºF for 3 to 4 minutes, checking at the 2-minute mark for doneness.

While the kale cooks, make the lemon aioli. Combine all of the ingredients in a small bowl and stir until well combined. Serve!

A small jar of creamy dressing is surrounded by kale chips and lemon wedges on a white plate, with a hand holding a spoon above the dressing.

Tips for Success

These kale chips are quick and easy to make. For the best result, try these tips!

Make sure the kale leaves are dry. You can use a salad spinner to remove most of the moisture after washing the kale, and pat it dry with paper towels or a clean tea towel if any water remains.
Work in batches if needed. Spread the kale in an even layer in the air fryer basket. Some overlap is okay, but try to keep the kale primarily in a single layer for a crunchy result.
Taste for seasoning. Once you've made the lemon aioli, give it a taste. Does it need a little extra salt or another squeeze of lemon? If it does, add a little bit at a time until you've reached just the right balance!

FAQs

How do you store leftover kale chips?

Store leftover kale chips in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 to 3 days to keep them crisp. Avoid refrigerating them, as moisture can make them soggy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! The lemon aioli can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly. Kale chips can be made up to 3 days in advance.

Can I make kale chips in the oven instead of the air fryer?

Totally! To make kale chips in the oven, spread the leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F for 12 to 15 minutes, checking often to prevent burning.

Plate of baked kale chips with lemon wedges around a bowl of dipping sauce. Striped towel, garlic, lemon, and wooden spoon are on the blue surface.

How to Serve

I love to serve these air-fried kale chips as a snack. They're also an amazing appetizer or side dish! Try this recipe with the mouthwatering main dishes below.

This Greek yogurt marinated chicken is packed with Mediterranean flavor. Brown sugar pork chops are an excellent sweet pairing, too.

This ranch salmon is a family favorite at my house (and be sure to try our ranch chicken, too!) For a full air fryer dinner, try this kale chips recipe with our wonderful air fryer filet mignon.

Other Easy Air Fryer Recipes

If you love making veggies in the air fryer, be sure to try these favorites!

Air fryer baby potatoes are tender in the center and crispy on the outside.
If you're short on time, these air fryer frozen green beans are the perfect side dish.
Air fryer mushrooms are a delicious, easy option.
And definitely check out these roasted air fryer carrots for something sweet and savory.

Did you make this recipe?

I'd love to hear about your experience making this recipe! Please leave a comment and rating below!

Hey friend, I’m Madison!

I’m the mama behind Cook at Home Mom. Through simple, family-friendly recipes and practical meal prep tips, I show busy moms how to make healthy eating enjoyable and sustainable, even with packed schedules. So glad you are here!