I love a good fish dinner, but let’s face it, deep-frying can be messy and heavy. That’s why I turned to my trusty air fryer for a lighter, healthier, and easier way to enjoy perfectly crispy fish without sacrificing flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you’re craving something special, this recipe checks all the boxes.
This crispy air fryer fish has a golden crust that’s perfectly seasoned while staying tender and flaky inside. It’s the ideal way to enjoy the satisfying crunch of fried fish without the oil overload. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that feels indulgent but is much better for you!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Fish fillets: Choose firm white fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia. These fish hold up well in the air fryer and have a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the seasonings.
Breadcrumbs: A mix of panko breadcrumbs and regular breadcrumbs creates the perfect crispy coating. Panko adds lightness, while regular breadcrumbs provide structure.
Flour: All-purpose flour helps the coating stick to the fish and creates a solid base for the breading.
Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binder, ensuring the breadcrumbs adhere evenly to the fish.
Seasonings: A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper gives the fish a flavorful boost. Adjust to your taste, or add a pinch of cayenne for heat.
Cooking spray: A quick spritz of oil spray helps the fish crisp up beautifully in the air fryer without adding unnecessary calories.
Ingredients List
- 4 fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup regular breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
How to Make Air Fryer Fish
Step 1: Prepare the coating
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for the breadcrumb mixture. In the breadcrumb bowl, mix panko, regular breadcrumbs, and all the seasonings.
Step 2: Coat the fish
Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel. Dredge each fillet in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press the fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, covering it completely. Shake off any excess.
Step 3: Preheat the air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Cook the fish
Place the coated fish fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Serve the crispy air fryer fish immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, lemon wedges, or sides like coleslaw and roasted potatoes.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Use fresh fish: Fresh fish works best, but if you’re using frozen fillets, make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry to prevent sogginess.
- Don’t skip the cooking spray: A light spray of oil ensures the coating crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
- Avoid overcrowding: Cook the fish in batches if necessary to ensure even airflow and crispiness.
- Season to taste: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your preferences, or experiment with other seasonings like Old Bay or Cajun spice.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes! While white fish like cod, haddock, and tilapia work best, you can also use salmon or trout for a richer flavor.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
You can use all regular breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes as a substitute for extra crunch.
Do I need to flip the fish while cooking?
Yes, flipping halfway through ensures both sides cook evenly and achieve that golden, crispy texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes to crisp it back up.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Enjoy making this quick, flavorful air fryer fish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!