Name: Garlic Naan Bread (Air Fryer Recipe) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 2 h 23 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1/3 cup warm milk; 2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 tablespoon sugar; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons plain yogurt; 3 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons grated garlic; 3-4 tablespoon water for kneading; 2 tablespoons chopped coriander or cilantro leaves; 3 tablespoons melted butter; 2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 12 reviews

If you adore the warm, fluffy embrace of Indian flatbreads, you are in for an absolute treat with this Garlic Naan Bread (Air Fryer Recipe) Recipe. This version brings out the unmistakable buttery garlic flavor combined with a tender texture, all crafted effortlessly in your air fryer to get that perfect golden finish. You’ll love how this traditional favorite transforms into an easy-to-make delight that brings restaurant-quality naan straight to your kitchen. Whether it’s accompanying a spicy curry or enjoyed on its own, this recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with one thick, pale beige dough ball that has a slightly rough and bubbly texture, showing some air pockets and uneven spots. The dough fills most of the bowl and touches the sides, with some dough smeared on the bowl's inner edge. The top of the dough is rounded and smooth in some parts but has small bumps and dimples throughout. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple yet essential. Each one plays a critical role whether it’s creating that soft, chewy texture, the rich buttery flavor, or the fragrant garlic aroma that fills your kitchen as you bake.

Warm milk (1/3 cup): Activates the yeast and helps create a light, airy dough.
Active dry yeast (2 teaspoons): Essential for the dough to rise and become fluffy.
Sugar (1 tablespoon): Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness.
All-purpose flour (3 cups): Forms the sturdy but tender base of the naan.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the full flavor of the bread.
Plain yogurt (2 tablespoons): Adds moisture and tenderness for that authentic naan texture.
Vegetable oil (3 tablespoons): Keeps the bread soft and rich.
Grated garlic (2 teaspoons): Bursts of fresh garlic flavor throughout the dough.
Water (3-4 tablespoons) for kneading: Adjusts the dough to the perfect consistency.
Chopped coriander or cilantro leaves (2 tablespoons): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the garlic butter.
Melted butter (3 tablespoons): Brushed over the naan for luscious richness.
Finely chopped garlic (2 teaspoons): Mixed into the butter for an irresistible garlic punch on top.

How to Make Garlic Naan Bread (Air Fryer Recipe) Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by whisking together the warm milk, active dry yeast, and sugar in a bowl. Cover and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step is crucial because it tells you the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic in your dough. If you don’t see froth, it’s best to start fresh with new yeast to ensure your naan rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In another bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the plain yogurt, vegetable oil, and grated garlic. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and gently mix everything together. Use 3 to 4 tablespoons of water as needed to knead the ingredients into a soft, smooth dough. This is where your hands come in handy—kneading helps develop the gluten that gives naan its signature chew.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Lightly grease the dough with oil, cover with plastic wrap, and place it somewhere warm for 2 hours. During this time, the dough will double in size—this resting process is what makes the naan airy and soft. Patience here pays off in every delicious bite.

Step 4: Shape the Naan

Once the dough has risen, transfer it to a clean surface and divide it into 8 equal portions. Roll each dough ball into a round, approximately half an inch thick. Resist rolling it too thin because you want a soft, pillowy texture, not something too crispy.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter

Mix the melted butter, finely chopped garlic, and chopped coriander in a small bowl. This flavorful butter will be brushed both before and after cooking, infusing the naan with irresistible garlic goodness and a hint of fresh herb aroma.

Step 6: Air Fry the Naan

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F to ensure even cooking. Brush some oil in the basket to prevent sticking. Place one naan at a time in the basket and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, but only on one side—flipping the naan can make it tougher, so trust the air fryer to do its work from the top side alone. Look for a lovely golden brown color on the surface as your cue that the naan is ready.

Step 7: Finish with Garlic Butter

Immediately after cooking, brush the naan generously with the garlic butter mixture. This second layer adds moisture, shines a beautiful gloss on the bread, and penetrates every soft nook with garlic flavor. Repeat this process with the remaining pieces and serve warm.

How to Serve Garlic Naan Bread (Air Fryer Recipe) Recipe

A cooked flatbread sits inside a black air fryer basket, showing a single round layer with a pale beige color and scattered golden-brown spots. Small green herb pieces and tiny white garlic bits are spread unevenly across the surface, adding texture and color contrast. The air fryer basket has a perforated black base, and the outer part shows signs of light use with some flour dusting on the edges. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling freshly chopped coriander or a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the hot naan instantly elevates the flavors. You can also add a little bit of nigella seeds before cooking for that subtle nutty hint and a visually appealing finish.

Side Dishes

Garlic naan pairs flawlessly with a wide variety of dishes. Think creamy butter chicken, spicy chana masala, or even a cooling cucumber raita. It also works beautifully alongside lentil dals or vegetable curries—any of these will turn your meal into a comforting feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your garlic naan wrapped in a warm cloth basket to keep it soft and inviting. You can also stuff pieces of cooked naan with cheese or sautéed vegetables for a delicious twist. Another fun idea is to cut the naan into strips and use them as dippers for hummus, chutneys, or other sauces. The possibilities are endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover naan, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Stored this way, naan will stay fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature, though it’s best enjoyed warm.

Freezing

For longer storage, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap each naan individually in plastic wrap and place them together in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen naan can keep well for up to 2 months without losing much in texture or flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, you can pop naan into a preheated air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on the edges. Alternatively, warm them briefly on a skillet or in a conventional oven wrapped in foil to retain softness. Avoid microwaving for too long or the bread will turn rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use fresh garlic instead of grated garlic for the dough?

Absolutely! Fresh grated garlic is actually preferred for its bright, sharp aroma and flavor that permeates the dough beautifully. Just be sure to finely grate or mince it so it mixes well.

Is it necessary to use yogurt in the dough?

Yogurt contributes to the tenderness and slight tang of the naan, making it more authentic in texture and taste. Without yogurt, the bread might turn out less soft and a bit more dense.

Why do we only cook the naan on one side in the air fryer?

Cooking only on one side helps retain the naan’s softness. Flipping and cooking both sides can dry it out or make it tough, which is not what we want with this soft flatbread.

Can I add other herbs or spices to the garlic butter?

Definitely! You can customize the garlic butter by adding things like crushed red pepper flakes, fenugreek leaves, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for an extra flavor twist.

How do I know when the yeast is no longer active?

If after 5 minutes of resting the yeast mixture there is no froth or bubbly surface, it means your yeast is inactive and you should start over with a fresh batch to ensure the dough rises properly.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Naan Bread (Air Fryer Recipe) Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone who loves Indian bread but wants a quick and fuss-free way to enjoy it at home. With minimal ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you’ll enjoy warm, fluffy naan with all the garlicky goodness without the hassle. It’s perfect for everyday meals or special dinners, so go ahead and give it a try—you truly can’t go wrong.