I’ve always loved artichokes, but dealing with whole ones can be a hassle. That’s why I fell in love with air fryer artichoke hearts—they’re tender, crispy, and ready in minutes! Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a tasty side dish, or a party appetizer, these golden-brown artichoke hearts are a game-changer.
The air fryer works magic here, giving them a perfect crunch without the need for deep frying. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—toss them in your favorite seasonings, dip them in a creamy sauce, or even add them to salads. Once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to soggy canned artichokes again!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Canned or jarred artichoke hearts: These are the star of the dish! Look for artichoke hearts packed in water or brine (not oil) for the best texture. They’re already tender, so all they need is a quick crisp-up in the air fryer.
Olive oil: A good drizzle helps the seasonings stick and ensures the artichokes get that irresistible golden crispness. Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor, but any neutral oil works too.
Garlic powder: This adds a savory depth without the hassle of fresh garlic burning in the air fryer. If you love garlic, feel free to add a little extra!
Paprika: A touch of smoked or sweet paprika gives a warm, slightly smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the artichokes’ natural earthiness.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. Adjust to your taste—I like a generous pinch of both!
Lemon juice (optional): A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens everything up and balances the richness.
Ingredients List
- 1 (14 oz) can or jar of artichoke hearts (in water or brine), drained and patted dry
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Artichoke Hearts
Step 1: Prep the Artichoke Hearts
Drain the artichoke hearts well and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. If they’re too wet, they won’t crisp up properly. If they’re large, you can cut them in half for even cooking.
Step 2: Season Them Up
In a bowl, toss the artichoke hearts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Arrange the artichoke hearts in a single layer in the basket—crowding them will make them steam instead of crisp. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until golden and crispy.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
If using, drizzle the artichokes with a little lemon juice right after they come out of the air fryer. Serve immediately with your favorite dip (aioli, ranch, or marinara work great!) or enjoy them as-is.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Dry them well: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness—take the extra time to pat the artichokes dry.
- Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches if needed to ensure even crisping.
- Experiment with flavors: Try adding Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or Italian seasoning for a twist.
- Serve hot: They’re best right out of the air fryer, as they can soften over time.
- Use fresh lemon: If you have it, fresh lemon juice adds a brighter flavor than bottled.
FAQs
Can I use frozen artichoke hearts?
Yes, but thaw and pat them dry thoroughly first to avoid excess moisture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Can I make these oil-free?
You can skip the oil, but they won’t get as crispy. A light spray of cooking oil works too.
What dips go well with these?
Try garlic aioli, ranch, tzatziki, or even spicy mayo for extra flavor!
Why are my artichokes not crispy?
They might have been too wet before cooking, or the air fryer basket was overcrowded. Make sure to dry them well and cook in a single layer.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful air fryer artichoke hearts—they’re sure to become a new favorite!