Yes, you can put water in an air fryer, but only in specific ways and in small amounts. Adding water helps create steam for cooking certain foods, prevents smoke from drippings, and makes cleanup easier. However, you must never pour water directly onto the heating element or fill the appliance beyond a shallow layer. Understanding the right technique keeps your air fryer safe and your food properly cooked.
Pros
- Exceptional capacity allows cooking main courses and multiple sides simultaneously for family meals
- Six versatile cooking functions eliminate the need for multiple appliances
- Easy-to-use touchscreen controls with preset options for quick meal preparation
- Rotisserie feature with included accessories enables restaurant-quality rotisserie cooking at home
- Dishwasher-safe racks and included accessories make cleanup simple and convenient
Cons
- Larger footprint requires significant counter or storage space in kitchens with limited room
- Touchscreen controls may be less durable long-term compared to traditional button interfaces
- Learning curve for maximizing all six functions takes time for new users
The Chefman 14-Quart 6-in-1 Air Fryer Oven is a comprehensive kitchen solution designed for families and cooking enthusiasts who want versatility without clutter. This multifunctional appliance consolidates air frying, baking, broiling, reheating, dehydrating, and rotisserie cooking into a single unit, making it an excellent investment for those looking to streamline their kitchen.
What truly sets this air fryer apart is its generous XL capacity and thoughtful design features. The 14-quart interior with three adjustable rack positions lets you cook complete meals at once, while the innovative Hi-Fry button delivers extra-crispy results by boosting temperature to 450°F during the final cooking minutes. The rotisserie function with included spit and fetch tool opens up restaurant-quality cooking possibilities for whole chickens and shawarma-style dishes. The intuitive touchscreen interface makes selecting functions, adjusting temperature (90°F to 400°F range), and setting time straightforward for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Build quality and usability shine through in several details. The large viewing window with interior lighting eliminates the need to open the door constantly, preserving heat and ensuring even cooking. The included accessories are practical and well-designed, including three wire racks, rotisserie components, and a drip tray. All cooking racks are top-rack dishwasher safe, reducing post-meal cleanup effort. The 1700W power output delivers consistent, reliable performance across all cooking modes.
The main consideration is physical space. At XL dimensions, this appliance demands significant counter real estate or dedicated storage, which may challenge users with smaller kitchens. Additionally, mastering all six functions takes some experimentation, though the touchscreen interface helps guide users through the process. The 1-year warranty and cETL approval provide peace of mind regarding safety and durability.
Overall, the Chefman 14-Quart 6-in-1 Air Fryer Oven delivers exceptional versatility and capacity for families seeking healthier cooking methods with minimal oil. Its combination of space-saving design (replacing multiple appliances), user-friendly controls, and impressive cooking performance makes it a solid choice for households that prioritize convenience and variety in meal preparation.
Capacity: XL 14-quart interior with three adjustable rack positions
Cooking Functions: Air fry, bake, broil, reheat, dehydrate, rotisserie
Temperature Range: 90°F to 400°F (Hi-Fry boost to 450°F)
Power: 1700W at 120V
Model: RJ38-RDO-14B
Certifications: cETL approved with advanced safety technology
Warranty: 1-year assurance by Chefman
Included Accessories: 3 wire cooking racks, rotisserie spit, fetch tool, drip tray/baking pan
Cleaning: Cooking racks are top-rack dishwasher safe
Best For: Families, meal preppers, and home cooks seeking multiple cooking methods in one appliance. Ideal for those prioritizing healthier cooking with minimal oil usage.
Consider This Model If: You have counter or storage space for an XL appliance, cook for multiple people regularly, want rotisserie capabilities, and value touchscreen convenience over traditional controls.
Skip This If: Your kitchen has severe space limitations, you prefer simple single-function appliances, or you cook primarily for one or two people.
Key Features to Leverage: Use the three rack positions to maximize cooking capacity, experiment with the Hi-Fry button during final minutes for extra crispiness, and explore the dehydrate function for homemade snacks. The viewing window lets you monitor progress without heat loss, improving overall cooking consistency.
Maintenance Tips: Regularly clean the interior and drip tray after use, check that rotisserie components are properly assembled before operation, and keep the touchscreen dry to ensure longevity.
Pros
- Exceptional versatility with 5 cooking functions eliminates the need for multiple appliances
- Large 12-quart capacity makes meal prep for families or entertaining effortless
- Hi-Fry technology delivers restaurant-quality crispiness for fried foods
- Intuitive touchscreen interface with 12 presets makes cooking accessible to all skill levels
- Comprehensive accessory package included, saving money on additional purchases
Cons
- Large footprint requires significant counter or storage space, not ideal for small kitchens
- Learning curve for maximizing all 5 cooking functions and preset options
- May take longer to preheat than smaller, single-function air fryers
The Chefman 12-Quart 5-in-1 Air Fryer Oven is a powerhouse countertop appliance designed for families and anyone who loves cooking versatility. This unit consolidates air frying, baking, roasting, rotisserie cooking, and dehydrating into one compact (though substantial) package, making it perfect for households tired of juggling multiple kitchen appliances.
What truly sets this model apart is its combination of capacity and smart features. The 12-quart interior means you can prepare meals for 6+ people simultaneously, while the exclusive Hi-Fry technology automatically boosts temperature to 450°F during the final two minutes of cooking, delivering that coveted restaurant-quality crispiness. The 12 preset cooking modes take the guesswork out of preparation, and the digital touchscreen makes navigation intuitive even for kitchen novices. You'll appreciate the interior lighting and large viewing window, which let you monitor progress without opening the door.
Build quality is solid, with a stainless-steel rotisserie spit, three cooking racks, and thoughtful accessories included. The dishwasher-safe components and removable drip tray make cleanup genuinely effortless, which matters when you're cooking for crowds regularly. The wide temperature range from 95-400°F (plus the Hi-Fry boost) handles everything from gentle dehydrating to high-heat crisping.
The main drawback is size. This appliance demands real estate on your counter or in storage, making it impractical for smaller kitchens. Additionally, mastering all five cooking functions takes time, though the presets significantly reduce the learning curve. Some users may also find that the larger capacity means slightly longer preheat times compared to smaller air fryer models.
Verdict: If you have a family, entertain regularly, or want a single appliance that handles nearly every cooking method, the Chefman 12-Quart is an excellent investment. The combination of capacity, versatility, and user-friendly features justifies the counter space it occupies. It's backed by cETL approval and a one-year assurance, adding peace of mind to your purchase.
Capacity: 12 quarts
Cooking Methods: Air fry, bake, roast, rotisserie, dehydrate
Temperature Range: 95-400°F (Hi-Fry boost to 450°F)
Cooking Presets: 12 preset modes
Control: Digital touchscreen with capacitive touch
Interior Features: Interior lighting, extra-large viewing window
Accessories Included: Three cooking racks, stainless-steel rotisserie spit and forks, rotisserie retrieval tool, drip tray
Dishwasher-Safe Parts: Removable drip tray and select components
Safety: cETL approved with advanced safety technology
Warranty: 1-year assurance by Chefman
Who Should Buy This? The Chefman 12-Quart is ideal for families of 5+, meal preppers, entertaining enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a single versatile appliance to replace multiple kitchen gadgets. It's also perfect for those who want healthier cooking options with the air frying and rotisserie functions.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere? If you have limited counter or storage space, live alone or cook for one, or prefer a compact single-function air fryer, a smaller model may be more practical. Additionally, if you rarely use rotisserie or dehydrating functions, you might not need the extra cost and complexity.
Key Considerations: Measure your available counter or storage space before purchasing. Plan to spend time reviewing the manual to maximize the 12 preset modes. Consider your typical cooking needs and whether the 5-in-1 functionality aligns with your cooking habits. The included accessories represent significant added value compared to purchasing them separately.
Pros
- Versatile 5-in-1 cooking functions including a unique Frozen mode
- Hi-Fry option for extra crispiness at 450°F on the final minutes
- Compact footprint with large 6-quart capacity
- Easy to clean nonstick, dishwasher-safe basket
- Intuitive touch controls with automatic shake reminders
Cons
- Hi-Fry boost only works during the final two minutes of cooking
- 6-quart capacity may be limited for larger families or batch cooking
- No included accessories such as skewers or baking pans
The Chefman TurboFry 6 Qt Air Fryer is a versatile 5-in-1 countertop appliance designed for those who want to enjoy crispy fried foods with less oil. It is ideal for families and individuals looking to cook healthier versions of favorites like French fries, chicken wings, and mozzarella sticks without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Standout features include the exclusive Hi-Fry option that cranks the temperature to 450°F during the final two minutes, delivering a golden-brown crisp on chicken and potatoes. The new Frozen function is a game-changer for busy cooks, defrosting and crisping frozen snacks in one seamless cycle. Automatic shake notifications ensure even cooking without extra timers.
The stainless steel finish is both sleek and durable, resisting fingerprints and smudges. The redesigned frame minimizes its footprint while maximizing the 6-quart basket capacity, making it a great fit for small kitchens. The nonstick basket is top-rack dishwasher safe, simplifying cleanup significantly.
While the Hi-Fry option is effective, it only operates during the final two minutes, so it may not be suitable for all recipes. The 6-quart capacity is ample for small to medium families but might be limiting for large gatherings. Additionally, the touchscreen interface can be less responsive if hands are wet or greasy.
Overall, the Chefman TurboFry 6 Qt Air Fryer offers excellent value for its price, combining versatile cooking functions, a compact design, and ease of use. It is a solid choice for anyone looking to reduce oil consumption without compromising on taste. The 1-year warranty provides peace of mind for long-term use.
Size: 6 quarts
Dimensions: 13.97 x 11.22 x 12.28 inches
Weight: 12.23 pounds
Wattage: 1500W
Voltage: 120V
Material: Stainless steel
Dishwasher safe basket: Yes
Functions: Air Fry, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate, Frozen
Temperature Range: 90°F to 400°F (Hi-Fry up to 450°F)
Pros
- Glass cooking bowl allows you to watch food cook without losing heat or opening the unit
- Large 5.8 quart capacity handles full meals for families or meal prep in one batch
- Fast heating and cooking with 1200W power element saves time on busy weeknights
- Multiple safety features including automatic shut-off and overheat protection for peace of mind
- Affordable price point with solid 4.5-star rating backed by thousands of verified reviews
Cons
- Glass bowl adds weight (4.4 lbs) and requires careful handling during cleaning and storage
- Temperature maxes out at 390°F, which may limit some high-heat cooking applications
- Compact design means it still requires dedicated countertop or storage space despite being relatively small
The NutriChef 5.8 Qt Air Fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance designed for home cooks and families seeking healthier, faster meal preparation. With its generous capacity and user-friendly preset modes, this air fryer handles everything from frozen fries and chicken wings to fresh shrimp and steak, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and weekend entertaining.
What sets this model apart is its premium transparent glass cooking bowl, a feature that elevates the cooking experience. You can monitor your food's progress in real-time without opening the unit, maintaining consistent internal heat for optimal results. Paired with 360-degree hot air circulation and 1200W of heating power, the fryer delivers crispy, evenly cooked meals using little to no oil compared to traditional frying methods, appealing to health-conscious cooks.
The build quality emphasizes convenience and durability. The stainless steel exterior has a sleek, compact design that fits well in smaller kitchens without dominating counter space. The non-stick basket and dishwasher-safe tray eliminate post-cooking hassle, while safety features like automatic shut-off and overheat protection provide reliable protection during daily use.
One consideration is the glass bowl's weight and fragility, requiring careful handling during unpacking and cleaning. Additionally, the maximum temperature of 390°F may not suit every advanced cooking technique, though it covers the vast majority of typical air frying applications.
Overall, the NutriChef 5.8 Qt Air Fryer represents excellent value for families and individuals seeking a reliable, easy-to-use air fryer with real-time food monitoring. Its combination of capacity, power, preset programs, and transparent design makes it a practical choice for healthier home cooking.
Capacity: 5.8 quarts for large meal portions and family-size cooking
Power: 1200W heating element for fast preheating and efficient cooking
Temperature Range: Adjustable up to 390°F for precise temperature control
Timer: Adjustable up to 60 minutes for flexible cooking times
Cooking Modes: 8 preset programs including shrimp, steak, fries, wings, fish, chicken, and defrost
Cooking Technology: 360-degree hot air circulation for even, crispy results with minimal oil
Cooking Surface: Non-stick basket with transparent glass bowl for monitoring
Cleaning: Dishwasher-safe tray and removable basket for easy maintenance
Safety Features: Automatic shut-off and overheat protection
Material: Stainless steel exterior with glass cooking bowl (approximately 4.4 lbs)
Design: Compact with space-saving footprint, includes removable handle for safe serving
Who Should Buy This Air Fryer? This model is ideal for families wanting to cook healthier meals quickly, small kitchen owners needing space-efficient appliances, and anyone seeking real-time food monitoring during cooking. The 5.8 quart capacity makes it suitable for households of 3-6 people or meal preppers cooking in batches.
Key Considerations: If you cook frequently at very high temperatures above 390°F or have limited hand strength for handling heavier glass cookware, you may want to compare other models. However, for standard air frying tasks like crisping frozen foods, roasting vegetables, and cooking proteins, this fryer covers all common needs.
Maintenance Tips: The glass bowl requires gentle handling during unpacking and cleaning. Hand washing may extend its lifespan, though it is dishwasher-safe. Regular cleaning of the heating element area ensures consistent performance over time.
Value Assessment: At its current price point with strong customer ratings, this air fryer delivers excellent value compared to premium models with similar capacity and features. The transparent glass bowl is a notable upgrade that justifies the investment for those who value cooking visibility and safety.
Why You Might Want to Add Water to an Air Fryer
Water serves several useful purposes inside an air fryer. The most common reason is to generate steam for cooking foods like vegetables, fish, or dumplings that benefit from moist heat. Steam cooking in an air fryer can produce tender results without drying out the food.
Another reason is to catch drippings from fatty foods like bacon or chicken wings. A small amount of water in the bottom of the basket or drawer prevents grease from burning and smoking, which keeps your kitchen cleaner and reduces odors.
Finally, adding water after cooking makes cleaning easier. Letting the pan soak with warm water loosens stuck-on residue, saving you scrubbing time.
Where to Put Water in an Air Fryer
The only safe places for water in an air fryer are the removable basket or the drip tray at the bottom. Never pour water into the main housing where the heating element and fan are located. Doing so can cause electrical shorts, rust, or permanent damage.
If your air fryer has a separate drip tray or a dedicated water reservoir for steaming, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for filling it. For basket-style models, add water directly to the basket or the pan beneath it, but keep the level below the food to avoid boiling over.
How Much Water Is Safe to Use
A general rule is to use no more than a few tablespoons of water at a time. Too much water can spill over, interfere with the fan, or create excessive steam that affects cooking performance. For steaming, a shallow layer about 1/4 inch deep is usually enough.
If you are using water to catch drippings, just enough to cover the bottom of the pan will do. Adding more than that can cause the water to boil vigorously and potentially splash onto the heating element.
Safety Considerations When Using Water
Water and electricity do not mix, so caution is essential. Always ensure the air fryer is unplugged before adding water to the basket or drip tray. Never add water while the appliance is running or immediately after use, as the heat can cause sudden steam burns.
Also, avoid using water when air frying foods that require a dry, crispy texture, such as frozen french fries or breaded items. Moisture will make them soggy instead of crisp. Save water for recipes that benefit from steam, like vegetables or fish.
When NOT to Use Water in an Air Fryer
Do not add water when preheating the air fryer. Preheating with water inside can cause rapid evaporation and potential damage to the heating element. Also, avoid adding water to oil-based cooking, as it can cause splattering and create a messy hazard.
Never submerge any part of the air fryer in water for cleaning. Only the removable basket and tray are dishwasher safe (check your manual). The main unit should be wiped with a damp cloth, never rinsed under a faucet.
How to Use Water Safely and Effectively
- Add water only to the basket or drip tray, never to the main housing.
- Use a few tablespoons at most; too much water can cause problems.
- Add water after preheating, not during or before.
- Use water for steaming vegetables, fish, or to catch drippings.
- Skip water when you want crispy results or are cooking breaded foods.
- Always unplug the air fryer before adding or removing water.
If you are unsure whether your particular air fryer model handles water well, checking its capacity and design can help. For a deeper look at how different air fryers compare in size and features, see our air fryer size comparison to find one that suits your cooking style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put water in the air fryer basket?
Yes, you can put water in the basket, but only a small amount. Keep the water level below the food to avoid boiling over. Use a few tablespoons at most.
Can you put water in the bottom of the air fryer?
If your air fryer has a removable drip tray or a bottom pan, you can add water there to catch drippings. Never pour water into the base where the heating element sits.
Will water damage an air fryer?
Water can damage an air fryer if it reaches the heating element, fan, or electrical components. Used correctly in the basket or drip tray, it is safe. Overfilling or pouring into the wrong area can cause permanent harm.
Can you steam vegetables in an air fryer with water?
Yes, you can steam vegetables by adding a shallow layer of water to the basket and cooking at a lower temperature. The steam will cook the vegetables gently without drying them out.
How do you clean an air fryer with water?
After cooking, let the basket and drip tray cool, then soak them in warm soapy water for 10 minutes. Use a soft sponge to remove residue. Never immerse the main unit in water.
Using water in an air fryer is perfectly fine when you follow the right steps. It can improve your cooking results and make cleanup easier. If you’re considering a new air fryer that better supports steaming or has a larger capacity, our air fryer size comparison can help you choose the right model for your needs.
