Air Fryer Frozen Fish: Quick, Easy, Delicious

Cooking frozen fish in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious meal with minimal cleanup. The air fryer's convenience lies in its ability to cook frozen food without prior thawing, freeing up time for you to work on sides and sauces. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness and type of fish, but generally, it takes around 15-20 minutes for frozen fish fillets to cook through in an air fryer.

Pre-preparation: whether to defrost, rinse or pat dry

When it comes to preparing frozen fish for cooking in an air fryer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is not necessary to defrost the fish before cooking. In fact, many recipes specifically state that the fish should go straight from the freezer into the air fryer, as this helps achieve a tender and flavorful meal with minimal effort. This also frees up your stovetop to work on delicious sauce pairings and sides.

However, if there is ice or frost on the fillets, it is a good idea to pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the seasonings stick better to the fish and ensure even cooking. Some recipes also suggest rinsing the fish to remove any ice crystals or ice glaze, but this can result in a more waterlogged texture once the fish is cooked. Therefore, it is recommended to skip the rinsing step and place the frozen fish directly into the air fryer basket.

Before cooking, it is essential to preheat the air fryer. Most recipes recommend preheating to the highest setting, typically around 400°F, for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the fish cooks evenly and efficiently.

Once the air fryer is preheated, you can add a thin layer of olive oil to the fish. This helps with seasoning and ensures a crispy exterior. You can brush the oil onto the fish or use an olive oil mister. After this, you can season the fish with a mixture of your choice. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. You can also use fresh or dried herbs to add extra flavor.

In summary, when preparing frozen fish for cooking in an air fryer, there is no need to defrost the fish beforehand. Simply remove it from the packaging, pat it dry if there is excess ice or frost, and place it directly into the preheated air fryer basket. By following these steps, you can enjoy a delicious and convenient meal with minimal effort and cleanup.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for frozen fish in an air fryer depend on the type of fish, the thickness of the fillets, and whether or not you are using a breading.

It is recommended that you preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes. If your air fryer does not have a preheat setting, simply turn it on and let it heat up for 5 minutes. You should also spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent the fish from sticking.

For frozen fish fillets without breading, cook at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. The FDA recommends an internal temperature of 145°F for cooked fish. Start checking the fish after 15 minutes of cooking and use a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked and to prevent overcooking.

For frozen fish fillets with breading, cook for 12-14 minutes at 400°F, or until the fish is piping hot and cooked through, and the breading is golden brown.

The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and size of the fillets. If you are cooking multiple fillets, ensure they are approximately the same size and avoid overcrowding the basket.

You can also cook frozen fish and frozen chips together in the air fryer. If the chips take longer to cook than the fish, put the chips in first and then add the fish for the length of time it needs.

Seasoning and coating

When it comes to seasoning and coating your frozen fish before air frying, there are several options to consider. Firstly, decide whether you want a breaded or non-breaded finish. For a breaded finish, coat the fish with a thin layer of olive oil, which will act as a "glue" for your breadcrumbs. You can brush it on or use an olive oil mister. Then, take seasoned panko breadcrumbs and spoon them over the fish, covering as much of the fillet as possible. Gently press the breadcrumbs to help them stick.

If you're using frozen, pre-breaded fish fillets, you can simply place them directly into the air fryer from the freezer. No thawing is required. This method produces a crispy, golden, and delicious result.

For a non-breaded option, you can spritz or brush the fish with olive oil and then apply your chosen seasonings. A simple yet tasty blend includes lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of salt and pepper. For a spicier option, add red pepper flakes, or for a classic fish pairing, try dill.

If you're feeling creative, experiment with different coatings and seasonings to find your favourite combination. Just remember to ensure the fish reaches an internal temperature of 140-160°F (60-72°C) before serving, depending on the specific guidelines of your air fryer.

What to serve it with

There are several options for what to serve with your air-fried frozen fish. The cooking method is a great way to prepare a quick, tasty, and convenient meal, and there are many complementary dishes to serve alongside it.

One option is to serve the fish with a side of fries. You could opt for traditional French fries, steak fries, sweet potato fries, or tater tots. This can be served with a side of tartar sauce or another creamy sauce for a classic fish and chips meal. You could also add a side of hushpuppies and garnish with lemon wedges to add a fresh, tangy burst of flavor.

Another option is to use the fish as a filling for tacos or sandwiches. Corn or flour tortillas can be filled with the breaded fish, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of creamy sauce or salsa for a hearty, flavorful meal. You could also add jalapenos or sriracha mayo for a spicy kick. Alternatively, place the fish between two buns with lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy sauce for a fun twist on a traditional fish or beef burger.

If you're looking for a lighter option, you can serve the fish on a bed of mixed greens tossed with a light vinaigrette. The warm, crispy fish and cool, crisp salad make for a delightfully satisfying contrast.

Finally, you could simply serve the fish with a side of tartar sauce or another favorite sauce, such as basil pesto, and a squeeze of lemon juice. This allows the flavor of the fish to shine through, while still adding a creamy or tangy element to the dish.

Reheating and storing leftovers

If you have any leftover fish fillets, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for 1-2 days. It is best to enjoy the fish right away, as it will have the best taste and texture.

To reheat, pop the cooked fish in the microwave and heat it for about 1 minute or until hot. You can also reheat it in the air fryer at low heat (about 350°F) for 1-2 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fish fillets.

If you need to make multiple batches, keep the cooked fish warm in an oven set to a low temperature, such as 250°F.

Frequently asked questions