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Air Fryer Chex Mix - Crispy, Savory Snack in Minutes

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 12 servings

Ingredients

  • 3 cups Rice Chex
  • 3 cups Corn Chex
  • 2 cups Wheat Chex (or use more rice/corn if you prefer gluten-free)
  • 1 1/2 cups mini pretzels
  • 1 cup cheese crackers (like Cheez-Its) or oyster crackers
  • 1 cup mixed nuts or peanuts (optional)
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (or kosher salt to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky note)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  • Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Wheat Chex, pretzels, cheese crackers, and nuts. Gently toss to distribute everything evenly.
  • Make the seasoning butter: In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the melted butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, smoked paprika, and cayenne if using.
  • Coat the mix: Drizzle half the seasoned butter over the cereal mix. Toss well with a spatula, then add the remaining butter and toss again until every piece looks lightly coated. Don’t rush this step—even coating = even flavor.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) for 3 minutes. A lower temp prevents scorching.
  • Cook in batches: Add a single layer of the mix to the air fryer basket. Do not overfill; you want plenty of airflow. Air fry at 300°F for 6–8 minutes, shaking the basket every 2 minutes. Watch closely in the last couple minutes to avoid burning.
  • Cool on a sheet pan: Transfer the cooked mix to a large baking sheet to cool and crisp up. Repeat with remaining batches.
  • Taste and adjust: Once cool, taste and sprinkle with a little extra seasoned salt if needed. Toss to distribute.