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Craving crispy, golden fish without the excess oil? This Crispy Air Fryer Fish recipe delivers perfectly flaky fillets with a crunchy coating in just 10 minutes! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a healthier alternative to deep-fried fish, this air fryer method is the way to go.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through an easy, foolproof recipe to achieve crispy, flavorful fish every time. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Fish Recipe
- Healthier Option: Uses minimal oil for a light, crispy texture.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Crispy & Flavorful: Achieve a deep-fried crunch without the grease.
- Versatile: Works with various types of fish like cod, tilapia, or salmon.
Ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Fish
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
White Fish Fillets | 4 fillets | Cod, tilapia, or haddock work well |
Panko Breadcrumbs | 1 cup | Creates a light, crispy texture |
Parmesan Cheese | ¼ cup | Adds extra flavor and crispiness |
Garlic Powder | 1 tsp | Enhances flavor |
Paprika | ½ tsp | Adds a mild smoky taste |
Salt & Pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
Egg | 1 | Helps the coating stick |
Olive Oil Spray | As needed | Lightly coats for crispiness |
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Fish
Step 1: Prepare the Coating
- In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg until fully beaten.
Step 2: Coat the Fish
- Dip each fish fillet into the egg mixture, ensuring an even coat.
- Press the fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Lightly spray both sides with olive oil spray to enhance crispiness.
Step 3: Air Fry the Fish
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the coated fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Check for doneness—fish should be opaque and flaky.
5 Tips for the Best Air Fryer Fish
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They create a crispier crust than regular breadcrumbs.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Spray Lightly with Oil: Too much oil can make the coating soggy.
- Adjust Cooking Time for Thickness: Thicker fillets may need 1-2 extra minutes.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the best texture by eating right after cooking.
What to Serve with Crispy Air Fryer Fish
Pair your crispy fish with delicious sides:
- Tartar Sauce – Classic dipping sauce.
- Coleslaw – A fresh, crunchy contrast.
- Sweet Potato Fries – A healthier alternative to regular fries.
- Lemon Wedges – Adds a bright, tangy flavor.
- Steamed Vegetables – Keeps the meal light and balanced.



Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before coating for best results.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to retain crispiness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for a crispy, gluten-free version.
What’s the best fish for this recipe?
Cod, haddock, tilapia, or even salmon work great with this method.
Try This Crispy Air Fryer Fish Recipe Today!
This Crispy Air Fryer Fish is a game-changer for quick, delicious meals. With its perfectly golden crust and tender, flaky inside, you’ll never miss deep-frying again. Try it out and let us know how you like it!
Enjoy your meal!