Air Fryer Tofu

This crispy air fryer tofu transforms simple pantry ingredients into irresistibly golden, protein-packed bites. With a savory marinade, seasoned cornstarch coating, and a creamy spicy-sweet sauce, every cube comes out flavorful, crunchy, and perfect for bowls, meal prep, or easy weeknight dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 15

Total Time 35

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, LUNCH, Main

Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Fusion

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Tofu

14 oz firm tofu, cut into 1½-inch cubes press before cutting for best crispiness
2 Tbsp reduced-sodium soy sauce or tamari
2 tsp toasted sesame oil
0.5 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp smoked or hot paprika
0.5 tsp onion powder
0.5 cup cornstarch
1 tsp kosher salt
0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
olive oil cooking spray

For the Spicy-Sweet Sauce

2 cloves garlic, finely grated
0.25 cup mayonnaise regular or light
0.25 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
2 Tbsp sriracha

For Serving

steamed white rice
sliced scallions
sesame seeds

Method

In a large bowl, combine tofu with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Toss gently and marinate for 20 minutes to 1 hour.
In another bowl, whisk cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add marinated tofu and toss until coated, shaking off excess.
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange tofu in a single layer, mist lightly with cooking spray, and air fry for 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
In a clean bowl, whisk together garlic, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha to form a glossy sauce.
Toss hot tofu in the sauce until coated. Serve over rice and garnish with scallions and sesame seeds.

Notes

For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Press tofu well for maximum crispiness. Adjust heat by adding more or less sriracha. For dry-crisp tofu, skip tossing in sauce and serve it on the side.