🐟 Crispy Air Fryer Fish Recipe (Quick, Easy & Healthy!)
If you’ve been looking for a way to make flavorful, flaky fish without deep-frying or making a mess — this Air Fryer Fish recipe is about to become your go-to! With just a handful of spices, no breading needed, and a cook time under 10 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Crispy outside, tender inside
- Low-carb & keto-friendly
- No flipping fish in a pan or deep fryer
- Ready in under 15 minutes
🧂 Ingredients
- 2–4 white fish fillets (tilapia, cod, swai, or catfish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or spray)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
🍽️ Instructions
- Prep the Fish
Pat your fish fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and gives a crisper finish. - Season
Mix all spices in a small bowl. Rub both sides of the fish with olive oil, then coat evenly with the spice mix. - Preheat the Air Fryer
Set to 200°C / 400°F and let it preheat for 2–3 minutes. - Cook
Place the fish in a single layer in the air fryer basket or rack (don’t overcrowd). Cook for 7–8 minutes, flipping halfway through. - Check Doneness
The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). - Serve
Squeeze lemon juice over the top and serve with your favorite sides!
📝 Tips & Tricks
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if needed.
- Use Parchment Liners: Prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Add Veggies: Air fry asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli alongside the fish for a one-basket meal.
- Prefer Breaded? Dip fish in egg, then coat in panko + seasoning before air frying.
🔄 Variations
- Fish Tacos: Shred air-fried fish and stuff into tortillas with slaw and spicy mayo.
- Spicy Cajun Fish: Add more cayenne and use Cajun seasoning.
- Mediterranean Style: Use lemon zest, oregano, and thyme for a lighter flavor.
🍴 What to Serve With Air Fryer Fish
- Garlic butter rice or lemon quinoa
- Roasted veggies or a side salad
- Tartar sauce, remoulade, or sriracha mayo
📦 Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C / 350°F for 3–4 minutes to retain crispiness.