Easy Air Fryer Artichoke Hearts

Looking for a quick and tasty side dish that won’t leave you standing over the stove? Air fryer artichoke hearts are here to save the day! I love how this simple recipe transforms ordinary artichokes into golden, crispy bites that pair well with almost any meal. Whether you’re using frozen or canned artichoke hearts, this method gives you restaurant-quality results right at home. The best part? You’ll have them ready in under 15 minutes with minimal cleanup required.

What are artichoke hearts?

Artichoke hearts are the tender, edible center of the artichoke flower bud. They’re the most prized part of the artichoke because they have a mild, slightly nutty flavor and a meaty texture that’s incredibly satisfying. You can find them in the grocery store either frozen or canned in water or oil. Both work great for air frying, though frozen ones tend to get a bit crispier on the outside. The hearts are naturally low in calories but packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins that make them a nutritious addition to your plate.

What if you don’t have an Air Fryer?

Don’t worry if you don’t own an air fryer! You can easily make crispy artichoke hearts using your regular oven. Preheat it to 400°F and spread the seasoned artichoke hearts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. You can also use a toaster oven if you’re making a smaller batch. The cooking time might vary slightly, but the results will still be delicious.

Ingredients in air fryer artichoke hearts

From Frozen:

• 12 ounce frozen artichokes
• 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning, or seasoning of choice

From Can:

• 14 ounce can quartered artichoke hearts
• 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning, or seasoning of choice

How to Air Fryer Artichoke Hearts

1. If using frozen artichoke hearts, let them thaw for about 10 minutes at room temperature. If using canned artichokes, drain them thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Place the artichoke hearts in a medium bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss them around to make sure each piece gets coated evenly.
3. Sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning over the artichokes and toss again until all pieces are well seasoned.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for about 3 minutes.
5. Arrange the seasoned artichoke hearts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them – you want good air circulation for even cooking.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking time.
7. Check for doneness – they should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. If you want them crispier, cook for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

Variations

You can switch up the flavors by trying different seasonings. Garlic powder and Italian herbs create a Mediterranean vibe, while paprika and cumin give them a smoky kick. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese during the last 2 minutes of cooking. If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to your seasoning mix. You can also brush them with balsamic glaze after cooking for a sweet and tangy finish.

Ways to serve artichoke hearts

These crispy artichoke hearts work well as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak. I enjoy them tossed into pasta salads or grain bowls for extra texture and flavor. They make a great addition to antipasto platters and charcuterie boards too. You can also use them as a topping for pizza or flatbread, or mix them into scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast. They’re delicious on their own as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce like aioli, ranch, or marinara.

Recipe Tips

• Pat canned artichokes completely dry before seasoning – excess moisture prevents proper crisping
• Don’t skip preheating your air fryer for the best results
• Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning
• If cooking a large batch, work in smaller portions to avoid overcrowding
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes
• Frozen artichokes don’t need to be completely thawed – slightly frozen ones actually crisp up nicely
• Experiment with different oils like avocado or grapeseed for variety

Frequently asked questions

Can I use marinated artichoke hearts from a jar?
Yes, but drain them well and pat them dry first. The oil from the marinade might cause excess smoking in your air fryer, so you may not need additional olive oil.

How do I know when they’re done cooking?
The artichoke hearts should be golden brown on the outside and tender when pierced with a fork. They’ll have a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior.

Can I freeze cooked artichoke hearts?
While you can freeze them, they won’t maintain their crispy texture after thawing. It’s better to cook only what you’ll eat fresh, though they reheat well in the air fryer for a day or two after cooking.

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