Quick and Easy Crispy Fish Fillets in the Air Fryer
If you're on the hunt for a simple, quick, and healthy way to cook crispy fish, I’ve got just the thing for you. This quick and easy crispy fish fillets in the air fryer recipe takes under 30 minutes, delivering that crispy, golden brown texture we all love—without the mess of deep frying. Seriously, the air fryer is a total game-changer when it comes to cooking perfectly flaky fish every time. Whether you're a seasoned fish lover or a first-timer, this is the kind of recipe you'll want to keep in your back pocket. It’s easy, tasty, and bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Looking for more air fryer recipes? Try my Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders and Crispy Air Fryer Cauliflower Recipe!
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Why You Need to Make This Recipe!
So, you’re either new to cooking fish or you're just looking for a foolproof way to get it crispy and delicious—well, this recipe is exactly what you need! I get it, cooking fish can be a little intimidating at first. You might be worried about it turning out too dry, lacking flavor, or just not coming together like you want it to. But here’s the secret: fish is honestly one of the easiest proteins to cook, especially when you follow this method. Trust me, you’re going to crush it!
This recipe is perfect for:
Picky eaters who are hesitant about fish (the crispy coating makes it super irresistible).
Anyone looking for a healthier take on fried fish.
A quick, weeknight meal that’s done in under 20 minutes.
What Kind of Fish Should You Use?
If you want the best results, go for a white, flaky fish that holds up beautifully in the air fryer. Here are a few top picks:
Snapper (what we’re using here) – Mild, with just a touch more richness in flavor.
Grouper – Mild flavor, firm texture, and crispy perfection.
Cod – Super flaky, mild taste, and totally kid-friendly.
Halibut – Slightly firmer with a subtle sweetness.
Tilapia – Affordable, easy to find, and a little softer in texture.
Got your fish picked out? Let’s get to cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 lbs white fish fillets (grouper, cod, snapper, or your choice), skin removed
1 egg, whisked
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon dried parsley
Avocado oil spray (or any neutral oil spray)
For serving:
Fresh lemon wedges or lime juice
Tartar sauce, hot sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce
My Go-To Kitchen Tools for this Recipe!
How to Make Crispy Fish Fillets in the Air Fryer
Prep the fish: Pat the fish dry with a paper towel. This helps the breading stick better. Cut into strips or keep the fillets whole, your choice!
Set up the breading station: In one bowl, whisk the egg. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried parsley.
Bread the fish: Dip each piece of fish into the egg, making sure it's fully coated. Then, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, covering all sides. Shake off any extra crumbs.
4. Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 400°F and let it heat for a couple of minutes.
5. Air fry the fish: Lightly spray both sides of the fish with avocado oil and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The fish is done when it’s golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve: Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce, like tartar sauce, honey mustard, or a squeeze of lemon.
Oven Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil.
Follow the same breading steps as above.
Place the fish on the baking sheet and spray the tops with oil.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and flaky.
Jazz’s Tips for the Best Crispy Fish
Pat the fish dry before breading. Moisture can make it harder for the breading to stick and can prevent it from becoming crispy.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Leave enough space between the fish pieces for the hot air to circulate and cook everything evenly.
For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular bread crumbs. They give a light, airy crunch.
If your fish isn’t browning enough towards the end, give it another quick spritz of oil and cook for another minute or two.
Substitutions & Variations
This recipe is super customizable! Here are a few ways you can mix it up:
No eggs? Use milk or Greek yogurt to help the breadcrumbs stick.
Gluten-free? Swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
Want more flavor? Add a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning or Old Bay to the breadcrumb mix for a bit of extra spice.
No avocado oil? Any high-heat oil like olive oil or coconut oil works.
What Should I Serve This With?
I love serving crispy fish fillets with smashed potatoes, sweet potato fries, or loaded potato skins. These sides complement the crispy texture of the fish and make for a complete meal. For those looking for a healthy fish dinner, pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
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FAQs
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The fish should be flaky and easily pull apart with a fork. It should also reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
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Yes! Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry with a paper towel before breading. The air fryer works wonders with frozen fish, but you’ll need to add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
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My favorite options are tartar sauce, sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or even ranch. A little squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice also adds a nice burst of flavor.
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Yes! Store any leftover cooked fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to keep it crispy.
This crispy air fryer fish recipe is an absolute game changer. It’s quick, super easy, and way healthier than your traditional deep frying. The best part? You get perfectly crispy fish on the outside, with that tender, flaky goodness on the inside—all without drowning it in oil. Whether you’re cooking up fish for the first time or you’re a pro in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to steal the show. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s quickly becoming a favorite way to enjoy a fish fry!
Quick and Easy Crispy Fish Fillets in the Air Fryer
Looking for a healthier, quick, and crispy fish fry? This easy air fryer fish fillet recipe gives you golden, flaky fish in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs white fish fillets (grouper, cod, snapper or your choice), skin removed
- 1 egg, whisked
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon dried parsley
- Avocado oil spray (or any neutral oil spray)
Instructions
- Prep the fish: Pat the fish dry with a paper towel. This helps the breading stick better. Cut into strips or keep the fillets whole, your choice!
- Set up the breading station: In one bowl, whisk the egg. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried parsley.
- Bread the fish: Dip each piece of fish into the egg, making sure it's fully coated. Then, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, covering all sides. Shake off any extra crumbs.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 400°F and let it heat for a couple of minutes.
- Air fry the fish: Lightly spray both sides of the fish with avocado oil and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The fish is done when it’s golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce, like tartar sauce, honey mustard, or a squeeze of lemon.
