How to Cook Fish to Crispy Perfection in an Air Fryer

Air fryers have become one of the most popular kitchen appliances in recent years. And for good reason – they deliver crispy, delicious fried foods using little to no oil. But air fryers aren’t just for french fries and chicken wings. They are also an amazing way to cook fish!

Cooking fish in an air fryer results in a light, crispy crust and tender, flaky fish inside. The circulating hot air surrounds the food, cooking it evenly on all sides. Air frying also cuts down on mess since you don’t need to fuss with pounds of oil like you would for deep frying.

So if you’re looking for an easy, healthy way to enjoy fried fish at home then read on for tips on how to cook fish to perfection in an air fryer.

Getting Started

When it comes to air frying fish, the prep work is important for getting optimal results. Here are some tips:

• Choose the right fish – The best fish fillets for air frying are white flaky, fish like cod, haddock tilapia, pollock, sole, flounder, etc. Fattier fish like salmon and tuna don’t get as crispy. And avoid thick steaks which take longer to cook through. Go for thinner 1-inch fillets or steaks.

• Cut fish into even sized pieces – Cut your fish into same-sized portions so they cook evenly. Long thin strips or bite-sized chunks work great.

• Pat fish dry – Make sure your fish is patted dry before coating. This helps the coating adhere better.

• Brush with oil – Lightly brush both sides of the fish with oil. This aids browning and prevents sticking.

Breadings & Seasonings

One of the keys for extra crispy air fried fish is the coating. Here are some ideas:

• Flour – For a super simple crisp crust, coat fish with flour, seasoned with salt and pepper.

• Breadcrumbs – Panko or regular breadcrumbs provide crunch. For even more texture, add in cornmeal or crushed crackers.

• Spices and herbs – Season your breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, Italian seasoning, or fresh chopped herbs.

• Egg wash – For a thicker crust, dip fish in egg then breadcrumbs. The egg helps adhere the coating.

• Mayo or buttermilk – These tangy dairy ingredients also help the coating stick. Just brush on before adding breadcrumbs.

![Baked Fish In Air Fryer][]

Photo by NeedPix

Air Frying Process

Once your fish is prepped, it’s time to air fry! Follow these tips:

• Use cooking spray – Spritz fish fillets and air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray or brush with oil. This prevents sticking.
• Cook in batches – Only air fry a single layer, not stacked. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking. Cook in batches for evenly cooked results.
• Flip halfway – Flip fish over about halfway during cooking for even browning and cooking on both sides.
• Adjust cook time – Follow recipe cook times as a guide, but check for doneness early. If needed, cook longer in 1-2 minute increments to prevent overcooking.
• Let rest before serving – Once fish is cooked, let it rest for 2-3 minutes out of the air fryer before serving. This allows the juices to settle.

Handy Air Fryer Fish Recipes

Here are some tasty air fryer fish recipes to try:

Simple Crispy Air Fryer Fish

• 1 lb white fish fillets
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 tsp lemon pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for brushing

1. Cut fish into strips or chunks and pat dry. Brush lightly with oil.
2. In shallow dish, mix flour, lemon pepper, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge fish pieces in flour mixture until coated on all sides.
3. Arrange fish in air fryer basket in single layer. Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes until fish flakes easily and is golden brown, flipping halfway.

Panko Crusted Air Fryer Fish Sticks

• 1 lb tilapia or cod fillets
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp olive oil

1. Cut fish into long 1/2 inch thick strips. Pat dry.
2. In shallow dish, mix panko, parmesan, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip fish strips in egg then coat thoroughly in panko mixture.
4. Arrange fish sticks in air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cook at 390°F for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fish is opaque.

Crispy Fish Tacos

• 1 lb cod fillets, cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Salt and lime wedges, for serving
• Corn tortillas
• Toppings like cabbage, pico de gallo, avocado

1. Cut cod into chunks and pat dry. Toss fish with cornmeal, chili powder, cumin and salt.
2. Air fry for 8-10 minutes at 400°F until browned and fish flakes easily.
3. Serve fish in warmed tortillas with desired toppings and lime wedges.

Tips for the Best Results

Follow these tips to get the best crispy, delicious air fryer fish:

• Don’t overcrowd – Cook fish in a single layer with space between pieces.
• Use a light hand when coating – Thick batter prevents crisping.
• Adjust cook time as needed – Cook times vary depending on thickness.
• Let fish rest before eating for juiciest results.
• Use moderate temperature – 380-400°F lets the coating crisp without overcooking.
• Brush basket with oil before cooking for easy release.

So go ahead and enjoy your favorite fish recipes fried to crispy perfection in your air fryer. From fish fillets and tacos to sticks and more, the options are endlessly delicious and healthy. Air fryers truly unlock the full potential of fried fish at home.