Go Back
Cook Fish in an Air Fryer

Air Fryer Fish Fillets: Easy & Crispy

This recipe delivers perfectly cooked, flaky fish fillets with a crispy exterior using your air fryer. With minimal prep and quick cooking time, it’s an ideal healthy weeknight dinner option that pairs beautifully with a squeeze of lemon and your favorite sides.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course, seafood
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Small bowl (for seasoning mix)
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Paper towels
  • Knife & cutting board (for garnish preparation)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 fish fillets 6 oz each – Choose firm white fish like cod or tilapia, or use salmon for a richer flavor
  • 1 –2 tablespoons olive oil – For brushing the fish
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Optional Garnishes:
  • Lemon wedges
  • Chopped fresh parsley or dill

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Air Fryer:
  • Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for 3–5 minutes.
  • Prepare the Fish:
  • Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (this helps achieve a crispier finish).
  • Lightly brush both sides of each fillet with olive oil.
  • Season the Fillets:
  • In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  • Evenly sprinkle the seasoning on both sides of the fillets.
  • Air Fry the Fish:
  • Place the seasoned fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there is space between them for proper air circulation.
  • Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway through the cooking time. The fish is done when the flesh becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  • Serve:
  • Carefully remove the fish from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula.
  • Serve immediately with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
  • Details:
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8–10 minutes (depending on fillet thickness)
  • Total Time: Approximately 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings
  • Category: Main Course / Seafood
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Contemporary / American
  • Diet: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb, Paleo-friendly
  • Keywords:
  • air fryer fish, easy fish recipe, crispy fish fillets, healthy seafood dinner, quick air fryer meal, weeknight dinner ideas, low-carb fish
  • Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate):
  • Serving Size: 1 fillet (≈6 oz)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg (varies with salt preference)
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 0 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg

Notes

Cooking Time Adjustment: If your fillets are particularly thick, you might need to add an extra 2 minutes to ensure doneness.
Do Not Overcrowd: To get the crispiest results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with additional spices such as lemon pepper, dill, or Cajun seasoning to suit your taste.
Safety Tip: Always check that the internal temperature of the fish reaches 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Enjoy your quick and healthy air-fried fish fillets!
Keyword air fryer fish, easy fish recipe, crispy fish fillets, healthy seafood dinner, quick air fryer meal, weeknight dinner ideas, low-carb fish