How do I get ASP.NET Web API to return JSON instead of XML using Chrome?

Answer 1

I found the Chrome app "Advanced REST Client" excellent to work with REST services. You can set the Content-Type to application/json among other things: Advanced REST client

Answer 2

This code makes json my default and allows me to use the XML format as well. I'll just append the xml=true.

GlobalConfiguration.Configuration.Formatters.XmlFormatter.MediaTypeMappings.Add(new QueryStringMapping("xml", "true", "application/xml"));
GlobalConfiguration.Configuration.Formatters.JsonFormatter.SupportedMediaTypes.Add(new MediaTypeHeaderValue("text/html"));

Thanks everyone!

Answer 3

Don't use your browser to test your API.

Instead, try to use an HTTP client that allows you to specify your request, such as CURL, or even Fiddler.

The problem with this issue is in the client, not in the API. The web API behaves correctly, according to the browser's request.

Answer 4

Have a look at content negotiation in the WebAPI. These (Part 1 & Part 2) wonderfully detailed and thorough blog posts explain how it works.

In short, you are right, and just need to set the Accept or Content-Type request headers. Given your Action isn't coded to return a specific format, you can set Accept: application/json.

Answer 5

        config.Formatters.Remove(config.Formatters.XmlFormatter);