Raise your hand if you've ever brought home a bunch of bok choy with the best intentions… only to let it sit in the crisper drawer until it quietly wilts into oblivion. I've been there too. But trust me, this bok choy recipe in the air fryer is about to change everything. It's simple, speedy, and so flavorful that you'll actually start craving your greens.
The air fryer works absolute magic here. At 375°F, it takes just 6 to 8 minutes.It crisps up the leafy tops into almost chip-like perfection, while the stems stay tender and juicy. Tossed with just a touch of sesame oil and garlic powder, this little side dish packs a punch of flavor with barely any effort. You don't even need to chop much, a quick rinse, a drizzle, and into the air fryer it goes.
I love serving this with grilled salmon, a cozy bowl of rice, or even next to some dumplings on takeout night. But it also totally works as a snack straight out of the basket (yes, I've stood at the counter and eaten the whole thing more than once).
Want another easy veggie side? Check out my Air Fryer Sweet Potato Wedges, also made in the air fryer and just as addictive!
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The ingredients
Bok choy - Baby bok choy works best, but regular bok choy chopped in half or quarters is great too. Wash thoroughly to remove grit between the stalks.
Sesame oil - Adds a toasty, nutty flavor and helps the leaves crisp up. You can use avocado oil for a neutral alternative.
Garlic powder - Adds depth and savory flavor without burning like fresh garlic can in the air fryer.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Air Fryer Bok Choy
1. Prep the bok choy.
Wash and dry the bok choy thoroughly, especially between the stalks. If using large bok choy, cut in halves or quarters lengthwise.
2. Toss with oil and seasoning.
In a large bowl, add the bok choy, sesame oil, and garlic powder. Toss well to coat each leaf and stalk evenly.
3. Preheat the air fryer.
If your model requires preheating, set it to 375°F for a few minutes.
4. Arrange in the basket.
Place bok choy in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cut side down. Work in batches if needed.
5. Air fry to perfection.
Cook at 375°F for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway through. Leaves should be crispy, and stems just tender.
6. Serve warm.
Enjoy as a side, or snack on them straight like crunchy veggie chips!
Tips for Success
- Dry thoroughly - Any moisture left on the bok choy can cause it to steam instead of crisp.
- Don't overcrowd - Air circulation is key to crisping. Work in batches for best results.
- Toss halfway - Shaking the basket helps even cooking and prevents burnt edges.
Variations
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha before serving.
- Lemony brightness: A squeeze of lemon juice adds a refreshing zing.
- Soy sesame: Toss with a splash of low-sodium soy sauce or tamari after air frying.
Serve With & Storage Tips
Serving Ideas:
- Next to grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu
- Topped with a fried egg and sesame seeds
- Added to a rice or noodle bowl
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to crisp them back up. Not freezer-friendly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bok choy in the air fryer?
Fresh is best. Frozen bok choy tends to release too much water and won't crisp properly.
Can I add soy sauce before air frying?
It's better to drizzle soy sauce after cooking, too much moisture can prevent crisping.
Why is my bok choy soggy instead of crispy?
Two common culprits: too much moisture or an overcrowded basket. Make sure to dry the bok choy really well after washing, and cook in batches if needed so the air can circulate.
Air Fryer Bok Choy
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 4 -5 baby bok choy halved or quartered if large
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Wash and dry the bok choy thoroughly.
- Cut into halves or quarters if needed.
- Toss with sesame oil and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
- Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Serve immediately - crispy leaves and tender stems await!
Notes
- Make sure bok choy is dry to avoid steaming.
- Don't overcrowd the basket.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the air fryer.
Sophie Viau says
This one has become a go-to in my kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights when I need a veggie side fast. I love how the garlic powder gives it a savory kick without burning like fresh garlic sometimes does in the air fryer. If you’ve never tried bok choy this way, I think you’ll be surprised how addictive it is — even my boys snack on the crispy leaves like chips!