Air Fryer Tortilla Chips Salsa

Featured in: Quick Crunch Fixes

These golden tortilla chips are crisped to perfection using an air fryer, offering a lighter twist on a beloved snack. The fresh salsa combines ripe tomatoes, jalapeño, and lime juice, balancing zest and spice naturally. Preparing this snack takes only 20 minutes and serves four, making it ideal for sharing. Simple ingredients like olive oil and chili powder enhance the chips' flavor, while the salsa can be customized with fresh herbs and spices for added depth. This easy-to-make snack is vegan and gluten-free when using corn tortillas, perfect for various dietary preferences.

Updated on Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:00:00 GMT
Golden air-fryer tortilla chips sit next to a vibrant bowl of homemade, fresh salsa. Save to Pinterest
Golden air-fryer tortilla chips sit next to a vibrant bowl of homemade, fresh salsa. | snackandmack.com

Crispy, golden tortilla chips made in the air fryer served with fresh, zesty salsa. An easy, budget-friendly snack perfect for sharing.

I first tried making tortilla chips in the air fryer when I was short on time but wanted a healthier snack for family movie night. They came out perfectly crispy, and everyone loved dipping them in homemade salsa.

Ingredients

  • 8 small corn tortillas: cut into wedges
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or spray oil: for coating tortillas
  • ½ tsp sea salt: to season chips
  • ½ tsp chili powder (optional): for a touch of heat
  • 4 medium ripe tomatoes: diced
  • ½ small red onion: finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional): adds spicy flavor
  • 1 clove garlic: minced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro: chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime: for brightness
  • ½ tsp salt: for salsa
  • ¼ tsp black pepper: to taste

Instructions

Preheat air fryer:
Set air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
Cut tortillas:
Slice each corn tortilla into wedges (6 or 8 per tortilla).
Oil and season:
Brush or spray tortilla pieces lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle with sea salt and chili powder if using.
Arrange and cook chips:
Place tortilla pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crispy. Cool on a rack.
Prepare salsa:
In a bowl, combine tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix and let sit 5 to 10 minutes for flavors to blend.
Serve:
Enjoy crispy tortilla chips with the freshly made salsa.
Crispy air-fryer tortilla chips, dusted with spices, ready for dipping into the salsa. Save to Pinterest
Crispy air-fryer tortilla chips, dusted with spices, ready for dipping into the salsa. | snackandmack.com

Whenever we make these chips, it turns into a fun cooking moment with the kids helping to cut and season the tortillas. Everyone enjoys making their own salsa variations together.

Required Tools

Air fryer, knife and cutting board, mixing bowls, tongs or spatula

Allergen Information

Contains corn from tortillas. Most corn tortillas are gluten-free, but check packaging if gluten-sensitive.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 170, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 28 g, Protein: 3 g

A close-up shot of perfectly cooked air-fryer tortilla chips, paired with tasty homemade salsa. Save to Pinterest
A close-up shot of perfectly cooked air-fryer tortilla chips, paired with tasty homemade salsa. | snackandmack.com

This simple air-fryer snack brings everyone together. Enjoy warm chips and zesty salsa right after cooking for the best texture and flavor.

Recipe FAQs

How do I get the tortilla chips crispy?

Cut tortillas into wedges, lightly coat with oil, and air-fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until golden and crisp.

Can I customize the salsa flavors?

Yes, add diced avocado, corn, or black beans to tailor the salsa to your taste preferences.

What spice options enhance the chips?

A pinch of cumin or smoked paprika adds extra aroma and warmth to the tortilla chips.

Are these tortilla chips suitable for gluten-free diets?

Using corn tortillas generally keeps them gluten-free, but always verify packaging if sensitive.

How should leftover chips be stored?

Keep in an airtight container for up to two days to preserve crispiness and freshness.

Air Fryer Tortilla Chips Salsa

Crispy tortilla chips paired with fresh, zesty homemade salsa for a flavorful, easy snack.

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
10 min
Overall Time
20 min
Recipe by Snack And Mack Ryan Mitchell

Recipe Type Quick Crunch Fixes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type Mexican-Inspired

Output 4 Serving Size

Dietary Details Vegan-Friendly, Dairy-Free

Ingredient List

Tortilla Chips

01 8 small corn tortillas
02 2 tablespoons olive oil or spray oil
03 ½ teaspoon sea salt
04 ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Homemade Salsa

01 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
02 ½ small red onion, finely chopped
03 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
04 1 clove garlic, minced
05 ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
06 Juice of 1 lime
07 ½ teaspoon salt
08 ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Steps

Step 01

Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer temperature to 350°F and allow it to reach temperature.

Step 02

Prepare Tortilla Wedges: Cut each corn tortilla into 6 to 8 wedges.

Step 03

Oil and Season Chips: Brush or spray both sides of the tortilla wedges with olive oil, then evenly sprinkle sea salt and optional chili powder.

Step 04

Arrange Chips in Air Fryer: Place tortilla wedges in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary.

Step 05

Cook Tortilla Chips: Air-fry chips for 5 to 7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crisp. Remove and let cool on a wire rack.

Step 06

Mix Homemade Salsa: Combine diced tomatoes, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir well and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes to develop flavors.

Step 07

Serve: Plate the crispy tortilla chips alongside the fresh salsa for dipping.

Equipment Needed

  • Air fryer
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs or spatula

Allergy Info

Double-check every item for known allergies. If unsure, reach out to a healthcare provider.
  • Contains corn from tortillas; verify gluten content on packaging if gluten-free diet required.

Nutrition Details (each serving)

Nutrient details are offered for reference only. Speak with your doctor for personal health questions.
  • Calorie Count: 170
  • Fat Content: 6 g
  • Carbohydrate: 28 g
  • Proteins: 3 g