If you're looking for a quick and flavorful way to prepare bok choy, this air fryer bok choy recipe is a must-try. With crispy edges, tender stems, and a perfectly seasoned bite, it's a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. Plus, using the air fryer means you get that ideal roasted texture without needing much oil.
Why You'll Love This Spectacular Side Dish
- Fast & Easy. Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal prep.
- Healthy. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Crispy & Flavorful. The air fryer caramelizes the bok choy beautifully, giving it a slightly charred flavor.
- Versatile. Works as a side dish for stir-fries, rice bowls, or even on its own.
Whether you're a bok choy lover or trying it for the first time, this air fryer recipe will quickly become a favorite.
What Does Air Fryer Bok Choy Taste Like?
Air-fried bok choy has a lightly crispy texture on the edges with tender, juicy stems. The natural sweetness of the bok choy intensifies with the roasting process, while a hint of smokiness adds depth. When seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, or a touch of spice, it becomes even more irresistible.
Is It Healthy?
Yes, air fryer bok choy is a healthy dish. Bok choy is a nutrient-dense vegetable packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, calcium, and fiber, making it a great choice for a well-balanced diet. It is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it ideal for weight management and low-carb diets.
Using the air fryer requires minimal oil, reducing excess fat while still achieving a crispy texture. Opting for heart-healthy oils like olive oil or sesame oil adds beneficial fats without compromising health. Additionally, seasonings like garlic, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes enhance flavor without the need for excessive salt or unhealthy additives.
Overall, air fryer bok choy is a light, nutritious side dish that supports digestion, boosts immunity, and provides essential antioxidants while maintaining great taste and texture.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Bok Choy- The star of the dish, bok choy provides a tender yet slightly crisp texture. Baby bok choy is ideal for its mild flavor and delicate leaves, while regular bok choy can be cut into halves or quarters for even cooking.
- Olive Oil or Sesame Oil- Coating the bok choy with oil helps it crisp up in the air fryer while preventing it from drying out. Sesame oil adds a subtle nutty aroma, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
- Soy Sauce or Tamari- These ingredients add a rich umami taste, balancing the natural sweetness of bok choy. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative with a slightly deeper flavor.
- Garlic Powder- Provides a mild, savory depth that complements the bok choy without overpowering its natural taste. It also enhances the overall seasoning of the dish.
- Salt & Black Pepper- Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the bok choy. Salt brings out the vegetable’s sweetness, while black pepper adds a slight heat and complexity.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)- A great addition for those who enjoy a bit of heat. It gives the bok choy a slight spicy kick without overwhelming the dish.
How To Make Air Fryer Bok Choy
- Prep the Bok Choy. Rinse the bok choy thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat dry with a paper towel to ensure crispiness. If using regular bok choy, cut into halves or quarters. For baby bok choy, leave them whole or slice them in half lengthwise.
- Season. In a bowl, toss the bok choy with olive oil (or sesame oil), soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the bok choy in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space for air circulation. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the leaves are crisp and slightly charred on the edges.
- Serve & Enjoy. Remove from the air fryer and garnish with red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra soy sauce for added flavor.
Tips And Tricks
Air frying bok choy is a quick and easy way to achieve crispy, flavorful greens with tender stalks. Follow these tips and tricks to get the best results every time:
- Dry the bok choy completely. Moisture prevents crisping, so make sure to pat it dry before seasoning.
- Use a high smoke point oil. Olive oil or sesame oil works best for roasting.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Arrange in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Shake the basket halfway. This helps cook the bok choy evenly and prevents burning.
- Add a squeeze of lemon or lime. A touch of acidity brightens up the flavors.
Variations
Air fryer bok choy is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it with different seasonings, sauces, and flavors to match your meal. Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Spicy- Add a dash of sriracha, chili oil, or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Garlic Ginger- Toss with fresh minced garlic and grated ginger before air frying.
- Soy-Glazed- Drizzle with a mix of soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar after cooking.
- Miso- Coat in a blend of miso paste, sesame oil, and mirin for a rich umami twist.
- Parmesan- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese right after air frying for a unique fusion.
What To Eat With Air Fryer Bok Choy
Air fryer bok choy is a flavorful and nutritious side dish that pairs well with a variety of mains and accompaniments. Whether you’re serving it as part of an Asian-inspired meal or alongside protein-packed dishes, here are some great options to enjoy with it:
- Rice & Noodles- Serve over steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or garlic noodles.
- Grilled or Roasted Proteins- Goes great with teriyaki chicken, grilled salmon, tofu, or shrimp.
- Asian-Inspired Meals- Pair with dumplings, egg rolls, or stir-fried vegetables.
- Soups- Add as a topping for ramen, miso soup, or pho.
How Long Does It Last?
Air fryer bok choy is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat the leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bok choy soggy.
Can You Freeze It?
It’s not recommended to freeze cooked bok choy, as it loses its crisp texture when thawed.
If you need to prep ahead, wash and chop fresh bok choy, then store it in the fridge until ready to cook.
More Delicious Vegetable Recipes
- Instant Pot Green Beans and Bacon
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Air Fryer Ratatouille
- Loaded Cauliflower Casserole
- Candied Carrots
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Ingredients
- 4 heads Baby Bok Choy
- 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- Thai Chili Peppers, sliced thin, for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Bok Choy. Rinse the bok choy thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat dry with a paper towel to ensure crispiness. If using regular bok choy, cut into halves or quarters. For baby bok choy, leave them whole or slice them in half lengthwise.
- Season. In a bowl, toss the bok choy with olive oil (or sesame oil), soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the bok choy in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space for air circulation. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the leaves are crisp and slightly charred on the edges.
- Serve & Enjoy. Remove from the air fryer and garnish with red pepper flakes, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra soy sauce for added flavor.
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And don't forget to check out my air fryer cookbooks! Every day easy air fryer, and Air Fryer Revolution.
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