Air-Fryer Tortilla Chips Salsa

Featured in: Quick Meals

These golden corn tortilla chips are perfectly crispy thanks to air frying, resulting in a light, crunchy snack. Paired with a fresh salsa made from ripe tomatoes, onions, jalapeño, garlic, and cilantro, this dish offers a lively burst of flavors. Preparing it requires minimal time and simple ingredients, suitable for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a quick, satisfying bite. The balance of textures and zesty notes makes it ideal for those seeking a tasty, plant-based snack option.

Updated on Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:43:00 GMT
Golden air-fryer tortilla chips ready to be dipped, alongside a vibrant homemade salsa. Save to Pinterest
Golden air-fryer tortilla chips ready to be dipped, alongside a vibrant homemade salsa. | buddybiteskitchen.com

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

I first made these air-fryer tortilla chips for a family game night and they disappeared within minutes. The homemade salsa added a punch of freshness that everyone enjoyed.

Ingredients

  • Corn tortillas: 8 small tortillas, cut into wedges
  • Olive oil or spray oil: 2 tbsp, for brushing
  • Sea salt: ½ tsp, to taste
  • Chili powder (optional): ½ tsp, for a hint of spice
  • Tomatoes: 4 medium, diced
  • Red onion: ½ small, finely chopped
  • Jalapeño (optional): 1, seeded and minced
  • Garlic: 1 clove, minced
  • Fresh cilantro: ¼ cup, chopped
  • Lime juice: Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt: ½ tsp
  • Black pepper: ¼ tsp

Instructions

Preheat air fryer:
Set the air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
Prepare tortilla chips:
Cut tortillas into 6 or 8 wedges each. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle with sea salt and chili powder if using.
Air-fry chips:
Arrange tortilla pieces in a single layer in the basket. Air-fry for 5–7 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and crisp. Let cool on a rack.
Make salsa:
Mix tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, salt and pepper in a bowl. Let blend for 5–10 minutes.
Serve:
Enjoy crispy chips with the homemade salsa.
A close-up shot of crispy air-fryer tortilla chips, perfect for your next party. Save to Pinterest
A close-up shot of crispy air-fryer tortilla chips, perfect for your next party. | buddybiteskitchen.com

Sharing this snack during our weekend get-togethers always sparks laughter and quick hands reaching for the last chip.

Required Tools

Air fryer, knife and cutting board, mixing bowls, tongs or spatula are needed to prepare both the chips and salsa.

Allergen Information

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

Nutritional Information

Each serving offers about 170 calories, 6 g fat, 28 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein.

Freshly made air-fryer tortilla chips next to a bowl of colorful, chunky salsa for dipping. Save to Pinterest
Freshly made air-fryer tortilla chips next to a bowl of colorful, chunky salsa for dipping. | buddybiteskitchen.com

Enjoy these crispy chips and bright salsa as a snack or a casual starter—they bring fiesta vibes to any occasion.

Common Recipe Questions

How do I make the tortilla chips crispy in the air fryer?

Brush the tortilla wedges lightly with olive oil and cook in a single layer at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crispiness.

Can I customize the salsa flavors?

Yes, you can add diced avocado, corn, black beans, or adjust the spice level by including or omitting jalapeño to suit your taste.

What alternatives can I use instead of olive oil for the chips?

You can use any light spray oil or lightly coat the tortillas with avocado or vegetable oil for similar results.

How should I store leftover chips and salsa?

Store chips in an airtight container to maintain crispness for up to two days. Keep salsa refrigerated and consume within a couple of days for freshness.

Are these chips suitable for gluten-free diets?

Most corn tortillas are gluten-free, but it’s important to check the packaging to ensure they meet gluten-free standards.

Air-Fryer Tortilla Chips Salsa

Golden air-fried corn chips served with fresh, zesty homemade salsa for a delicious snack.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Created By Max Buddyfield

Recipe Category Quick Meals

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type Mexican-Inspired

Recipe Yield 4 Number of Servings

Dietary Preferences Vegan-Friendly, Free of Dairy, Free of Gluten

What You'll Need

Tortilla Chips

01 8 small corn tortillas
02 2 tablespoons olive oil or spray oil
03 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
04 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Homemade Salsa

01 4 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
02 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
03 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
04 1 clove garlic, minced
05 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
06 Juice of 1 lime
07 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Steps to Follow

Step 01

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

Step 02

Cut Tortillas: Slice each corn tortilla into 6 to 8 wedges.

Step 03

Season Chips: Lightly brush or spray both sides of tortilla wedges with olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt and optional chili powder.

Step 04

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

Step 05

Cook Chips: Air-fry the tortilla pieces for 5 to 7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway to ensure even crisping, until golden and crisp. Transfer to a cooling rack.

Step 06

Prepare Salsa: Combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Stir well and allow to rest for 5 to 10 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 07

Serve: Arrange the crispy tortilla chips alongside the fresh salsa for immediate enjoyment.

Tools You'll Need

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

Allergy Warnings

Review each ingredient carefully for allergens. If unsure, consult with a healthcare provider.
  • Contains corn (from tortillas). Verify gluten-free certification on corn tortillas if sensitivity is a concern.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for general information only. Always consult a healthcare professional for dietary concerns.
  • Calorie Count: 170
  • Fat Content: 6 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 28 grams
  • Protein Content: 3 grams