Air Fryer Fish: The Ultimate Guide to Crispy, Delicious Results

Let’s talk about air fryers and fish, shall we? Honestly, I was sceptical about this whole air frying craze at first. How could you possibly get that crispy, delicious fish without deep-frying it? But then I saw those rave reviews, the photos of golden-brown fish with that perfect crunch, and I knew I had to give it a go.

And let me tell you, I’m so glad I did. This air fryer fish business is the real deal! It's healthy, it's quick, and it's surprisingly easy to master. So, if you’re ready to ditch the deep fryer and embrace the crispy, delicious world of air-fried fish, then buckle up, because I'm about to spill all my secrets.

(Part 1) Choosing the Right Fish

Finding the Perfect Fish for Air Frying

Right, first things first, let’s talk fish. Not all fish are created equal when it comes to air frying. You want something that's firm enough to hold its shape and not fall apart, but also not too thick or dense. Think of it like finding the Goldilocks of fish.

Here are a few of my favourites:

Cod: This is a classic choice for air frying, and for good reason. It’s got a mild flavour, a flaky texture, and cooks up beautifully. You can’t go wrong with cod, it’s like the dependable friend you can always rely on.

Haddock: Similar to cod in terms of flavour and texture, haddock is another winner. It's a bit more robust than cod, and it holds up well to the air frying process.

Salmon: You can’t go wrong with salmon, especially if you’re looking for a bit more richness and flavour. Just make sure you choose fillets that are about 1 inch thick or less. Too thick, and it might not cook through evenly.

Swordfish: Swordfish is a great choice if you want a meatier fish. It's best to cook it in steaks, about 1 inch thick. It has a firm texture and a slightly sweet flavour that goes really well with air frying.

Tuna: Tuna is a good option for air frying, but it's best to use steaks rather than fillets. If you’re using tuna steaks, make sure they are about 1 inch thick. It's got a richer flavour than some other fish and holds up well to the air frying process.

Tilapia: A budget-friendly fish that cooks up beautifully in the air fryer. It's got a mild flavour and a delicate texture, which means it cooks quickly and doesn't dry out.

Bass: I’m a big fan of air-fried bass, especially if it’s a whole fish. Just make sure to score the skin so it crisps up nicely. Bass has a lovely firm texture and a slightly sweet flavour.

Fish to Avoid

There are a couple of fish I'd recommend avoiding for air frying:

Delicate fish: Fish like sole or flounder can be a bit too delicate for air frying. They tend to dry out and fall apart.

Very oily fish: While mackerel and herring are delicious, their high oil content means they can become greasy in the air fryer.

Freezing Your Fish

You can also air-fry frozen fish, and this is a lifesaver for busy nights. Just make sure to defrost it completely before cooking. Otherwise, you'll end up with a soggy mess, and nobody wants that.

(Part 2) Preparing Your Fish

Cleaning and Patting Dry

Once you've chosen your fish, it’s time to prep it. This is where I like to get my hands dirty. If you’re using whole fish, start by cleaning it. You can ask your fishmonger to do this for you, but I find it quite satisfying to do myself. For fillets, give them a good rinse under cold water and pat them dry with kitchen paper. This will help to prevent the fish from sticking to the air fryer basket and ensure a crispy finish.

Seasoning and Marinades

Now it's time to get creative with your seasoning! I like to keep things simple, but you can go as wild as you like. Here are a few of my go-to seasonings:

Salt and pepper: The classic combination. You can never go wrong with a good sprinkling of salt and pepper. It's a simple but effective way to enhance the natural flavour of the fish.

Paprika: Gives the fish a beautiful colour and adds a touch of sweetness. It's also a good source of antioxidants.

Garlic powder: Adds a lovely savoury flavour. A touch of garlic powder can really elevate the flavour of your fish.

Lemon pepper: A zingy, refreshing combination. The combination of lemon and pepper provides a bright, citrusy flavour that complements the fish nicely.

Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs work well, like parsley, dill, thyme, or oregano. The addition of herbs adds a touch of complexity and freshness to the fish.

Marinades

If you want to add a bit more flavour, you can marinate your fish before cooking. Here are a few marinade ideas:

Lemon and garlic: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper for a simple and delicious marinade. This marinade will infuse the fish with a bright, citrusy flavour and a hint of garlic.

Soy sauce and ginger: A classic Asian-inspired marinade that pairs well with white fish. It adds a savory umami flavour and a touch of sweetness.

Spicy chili: For a bit of heat, mix chili flakes, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. This marinade will give your fish a spicy kick.

Honey and mustard: This sweet and tangy marinade is perfect for salmon. It adds a touch of sweetness and a tangy flavour that compliments the rich flavour of salmon.

(Part 3) Choosing the Right Air Fryer

Air Fryer Types: A Breakdown

I've tried a few different air fryers over the years, and each one has its pros and cons. Here's a breakdown:

Basket-style air fryers: These are the most common type of air fryer, and they're great for smaller batches of food. The basket is typically made of wire mesh, which allows air to circulate around the food. It's a great option for those who are starting out with air frying.

Oven-style air fryers: These air fryers look like small ovens, and they can often hold a larger quantity of food. They're also great for baking and roasting, not just frying. They are more versatile and can be used to cook a wider variety of foods.

Countertop air fryers: These are smaller and more compact, making them ideal for smaller kitchens or for those who don't want to take up too much counter space. They are a great option for people who live in smaller spaces or who don't cook a lot of food at once.

Features to Look for

When choosing an air fryer, here are a few features to keep in mind:

Capacity: How much food can you fit in the air fryer? If you're cooking for a large family, you'll need a larger air fryer.

Temperature control: You need an air fryer that lets you adjust the temperature so you can cook different foods at the optimal temperature. For example, you might need a higher temperature for frying fish, but a lower temperature for roasting vegetables.

Timer: A built-in timer is really helpful for setting the cooking time and keeping track of your food. It's a great way to avoid overcooking your food.

Non-stick coating: A non-stick coating makes cleaning the air fryer a breeze. It makes it easier to remove food and prevents it from sticking to the basket.

Accessories: Some air fryers come with additional accessories, such as a rotisserie basket or skewers, which can be handy for cooking different types of food. These accessories can expand the versatility of your air fryer.

(Part 4) The Art of Air Frying Fish

Preparing the Air Fryer

Before you start cooking, make sure your air fryer is clean. I recommend preheating it to the desired temperature for a few minutes. This will ensure that the fish cooks evenly and gets that perfect crispy exterior.

Placement and Spacing

When placing the fish in the air fryer, make sure you leave a little space between each piece so that the air can circulate. This will help the fish to cook evenly and prevent it from steaming.

Time and Temperature

The best time and temperature for air frying fish will vary depending on the type of fish, the thickness, and how crispy you want it to be.

Here's a general guideline:

Temperature: 375°F (190°C)

Time: 10-15 minutes per side for most fish

Flipping and Checking

It's essential to flip the fish halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and cooking. You can check the fish for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part. If the fish flakes easily, it's ready to go.

doneness test

To ensure the fish is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. This is especially important for thicker fish fillets or steaks.

(Part 5) Air Fryer Fish Variations

Battered and Breaded Fish

One of the things I love about air frying is that you can get that crispy, battered-fish effect without the messy deep-frying.

Homemade batter: You can make your own batter using flour, milk, and spices. I like to add a bit of baking powder to make it extra crispy. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup milk

1 egg, beaten

1 tablespoon oil

Instructions:

1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and oil.

3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined.

4. Dip the fish fillets in the batter and coat them evenly.

5. Place the battered fish in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd.

6. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Store-bought batter: If you’re short on time, you can also use store-bought batter. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package.

panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are a great option for air frying. They're light and airy, so they create a crispy, crunchy coating. Here’s a recipe for panko-crusted fish:

Ingredients:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 egg, beaten

1 tablespoon milk

Fish fillets

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2. In another shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk.

3. Dip the fish fillets in the egg mixture, then coat them thoroughly in the panko mixture.

4. Place the coated fish in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd.

5. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Fish with Vegetables

Air frying is also great for cooking vegetables alongside your fish. Here are a few combinations I love:

Fish and chips: Air fry your favourite fish with some crispy potato wedges. This is a classic combination that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. Here’s how to make air fryer chips:

Ingredients:

2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss the potato wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

2. Place the potato wedges in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd.

3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Salmon and asparagus: The delicate flavour of asparagus pairs perfectly with salmon. You can air-fry the asparagus alongside the salmon for a quick and easy dinner. Here’s how to air-fry asparagus:

Ingredients:

1 pound asparagus, trimmed

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

2. Place the asparagus in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd.

3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Cod and roasted vegetables: Roast some bell peppers, onions, and zucchini alongside your cod for a hearty meal. Here’s how to roast vegetables in the air fryer:

Ingredients:

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

1 onion, sliced

1 zucchini, sliced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

2. Place the vegetables in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd.

3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Fish with Sauces

You can also add a delicious sauce to your air-fried fish. Here are a few ideas:

Lemon butter sauce: A classic combination that’s always a winner. It's simple to make and adds a bright, citrusy flavour to the fish.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.

2. Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour the sauce over the fish after it's cooked.

Tartar sauce: A tangy sauce that’s perfect for fish. It's a classic condiment that adds a creamy, tangy flavour to the fish.

Ingredients:

1 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup chopped gherkins

1/4 cup chopped red onion

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill

1 tablespoon capers

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.

2. Serve the tartar sauce alongside the fish.

Chipotle mayo: For a bit of heat, try a chipotle mayo sauce. It's a spicy and creamy sauce that adds a touch of smokiness to the fish.

Ingredients:

1 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.

2. Serve the chipotle mayo sauce alongside the fish.

Honey garlic sauce: This sweet and savoury sauce is perfect for salmon. It's a delicious and versatile sauce that adds a touch of sweetness and a savory flavour to the fish.

Ingredients:

1/4 cup honey

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 tablespoon grated ginger

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

2. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

3. Pour the sauce over the fish after it's cooked.

(Part 6) Leftovers and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

To reheat leftover fish, you can either pop it back in the air fryer for a few minutes or microwave it. Just make sure to check the fish for doneness before serving.

(Part 7) Troubleshooting

Fish Not Crispy

Overcrowding: Make sure there's enough space between the fish pieces to allow for proper air circulation. If the fish is too crowded in the air fryer basket, it will steam instead of crisp up.

Not preheating: Preheat your air fryer to the correct temperature before adding the fish. This will ensure that the fish cooks evenly and gets that perfect crispy exterior.

Insufficient cooking time: Increase the cooking time slightly. If the fish isn't cooked long enough, it won't have enough time to crisp up.

Fish Overcooked

Too high of a temperature: Reduce the temperature slightly. If the temperature is too high, the fish will cook too quickly and could become dry.

Too long of a cooking time: Reduce the cooking time by a few minutes. Keep a close eye on your fish and check for doneness.

Fish Sticking

Not enough oil: Spritz the fish with a little bit of cooking spray or brush it with oil. A light coating of oil will help to prevent the fish from sticking to the air fryer basket.

Dirty air fryer basket: Make sure your air fryer basket is clean before cooking. A dirty basket can cause the fish to stick.

Fish Not Flaky

Undercooked: Cook the fish for a few more minutes. If the fish is not cooked through, it won't be flaky.

Too thick of fillets: If you're using thick fillets, you might need to cook them for a longer time. Thicker fillets will take longer to cook through.

(Part 8) The Benefits of Air Frying Fish

Health Benefits

Air frying fish is a healthier option than deep-frying because it uses less oil. This means you can enjoy your favourite crispy fish without all the extra fat and calories. It's a great way to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal.

Time-Saving

Air fryers cook food much faster than ovens, making them a great option for busy weeknights. It's a great way to get a meal on the table quickly.

Easy to Clean

Most air fryers are relatively easy to clean, especially if they have a non-stick coating. This makes them a convenient and hassle-free way to cook.

Versatile

Air fryers can be used to cook a variety of foods, not just fish. You can use them to roast vegetables, bake chicken, and even make desserts. It's a versatile appliance that can be used for a wide range of culinary tasks.

(Part 9) FAQs

1. Can I use any type of oil for air frying?

Yes, you can use a variety of oils for air frying, but I recommend using a high-heat oil like avocado oil or olive oil. Just remember to use a light spray or brush a thin layer of oil, as too much oil can lead to a greasy result.

2. Can I use frozen fish in the air fryer?

Yes, you can use frozen fish in the air fryer, but it's important to defrost it completely before cooking. This will ensure that the fish cooks evenly and prevent it from steaming.

3. How long should I air fry fish for?

The cooking time for air frying fish will vary depending on the thickness of the fish and the temperature of your air fryer. As a general guideline, it will take about 10-15 minutes per side for most fish. Keep a close eye on your fish and check for doneness.

4. How do I know when the fish is cooked through?

You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fish. If the fish flakes easily, it's ready to go. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This is especially important for thicker fish fillets or steaks.

5. How do I clean my air fryer?

Most air fryers can be cleaned with warm, soapy water. If your air fryer has removable parts, make sure to wash them separately. You can also use a non-abrasive cleaner to remove any stubborn food residue. It's important to clean your air fryer after each use to prevent any buildup of grease and grime.

Now, I hope this guide has given you the confidence to try your hand at air-fried fish. It's a delicious, healthy, and easy way to cook fish at home. So, go on, give it a go! You won't be disappointed. And if you've got any questions, feel free to ask! Happy cooking!