Air Fryer Tortilla Chips Salsa

Featured in: Easy Everyday Warmth

These golden tortilla chips are air-fried to crispy perfection, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. Accompanied by a vibrant homemade salsa made of ripe tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice, this snack bursts with fresh, zesty flavors. Simple ingredients and quick preparation make it ideal for sharing or a light bite. The perfect balance of crunch and tangy zest comes together in just 20 minutes using minimal oil and easy steps.

Updated on Wed, 19 Nov 2025 16:30:00 GMT
Golden, crispy air-fryer tortilla chips ready to be dipped into a vibrant red homemade salsa. Save
Golden, crispy air-fryer tortilla chips ready to be dipped into a vibrant red homemade salsa. | pumpkinvale.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 weekend movie night and they were devoured in minutes. The homemade salsa brings fresh flavor and makes them extra special.

Ingredients

  • Corn tortillas: Use 8 small tortillas for crispy chips
  • Olive oil or spray oil: 2 tbsp to help chips turn golden (spray works for less oil)
  • Sea salt: ½ tsp for seasoning
  • Chili powder (optional): ½ tsp for a spicy boost
  • Tomatoes: 4 medium ripe, diced for fresh salsa
  • Red onion: ½ small, finely chopped
  • Jalapeño (optional): 1 seeded and minced for heat
  • Garlic: 1 clove, minced for flavor
  • Fresh cilantro: ¼ cup chopped
  • Lime juice: From 1 lime to brighten salsa
  • Salt: ½ tsp for salsa seasoning
  • Black pepper: ¼ tsp

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer:
Set to 180°C (350°F) while you prepare the chips.
Cut the tortillas:
Slice tortillas into wedges (6 or 8 pieces per tortilla).
Season and oil the chips:
Brush or spray both sides with olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt and chili powder if using.
Air-fry the chips:
Arrange chips in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy. Cool on a rack.
Prepare salsa:
Mix diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes for flavors to meld.
Serve chips & salsa:
Enjoy warm, crispy chips dipped in fresh salsa.
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Sharing these tortilla chips with my family has become a favorite game night tradition. Everyone loves scooping up the bright salsa and crunching away together.

Required Tools

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

Allergen Information

Contains corn. Check tortilla packaging for gluten statements if using for gluten-sensitive diets.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 170 calories, 6 g total fat, 28 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein

Close-up of air-fryer tortilla chips, perfect for scooping up fresh salsa, a delicious snack. Save
Close-up of air-fryer tortilla chips, perfect for scooping up fresh salsa, a delicious snack. | pumpkinvale.com

Dip straight from the air fryer for peak crunch. These chips are always a crowd-pleaser.

Recipe FAQs

How do I make the tortilla chips crispy?

Lightly coat tortilla wedges with oil and air fry them at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes, shaking halfway to ensure even crispness.

Can I customize the salsa flavors?

Yes! Feel free to add diced avocado, corn, or black beans for extra texture and taste in the salsa.

Is it necessary to use an air fryer?

An air fryer ensures crispiness with less oil, but tortilla chips can also be baked in an oven if an air fryer isn't available.

What spices enhance the tortilla chips?

Adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika before air frying adds a warm, smoky depth to the chips.

How should leftover chips be stored?

Store chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain crunchiness.

Air Fryer Tortilla Chips Salsa

Golden tortilla chips paired with fresh, zesty homemade salsa, perfect as a quick, tasty snack.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Time Needed
20 minutes
Created by Emma Wallace

Recipe Type Easy Everyday Warmth

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type Mexican-Inspired

Makes 4 Serving Size

Diet Information Plant-Based, No Dairy, No Gluten

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

How to Make

Step 01

Preheat air fryer: Set the air fryer to 350°F (180°C) and allow it to preheat.

Step 02

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

Step 03

Season the chips: Brush or spray both sides of the tortilla wedges with olive oil; sprinkle sea salt and optional chili powder evenly over them.

Step 04

Cook tortilla chips: Place the tortilla wedges in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary. Air fry for 5 to 7 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden brown and crisp. Remove and cool on a wire rack.

Step 05

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 develop flavors.

Step 06

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

Equipment Needed

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

Allergy Details

Review ingredients for allergens and ask a healthcare expert if unsure.
  • Contains corn from the tortillas. Verify tortilla packaging for gluten content if sensitive.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

Details shown are for general guidance and aren't a medical substitute.
  • Caloric Content: 170
  • Fats: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Proteins: 3 g