Air Fryer Breaded Fish: A Healthy, Crispy Treat?

Air fryers are a great way to cook breaded fish, yielding a crispy, golden finish without the need for deep frying and excessive oil. This method is mess-free, healthier, and yields consistent results in under 20 minutes. It is also versatile, as you can use a variety of fish fillets, including cod, tilapia, catfish, pollock, hake, haddock, and salmon. The key to success is to ensure the fish is dry before cooking and not to overcrowd the air fryer basket.

How to make breaded fish in an air fryer

Ingredients

• 2-8 fish fillets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (Italian or plain)
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon of chilli powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder or granules
• 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 egg (optional)
• Lemon wedges and tartar sauce, for serving

Method

• If using frozen fish fillets, defrost them. Drizzle with olive oil, and make sure that the fish is well coated with oil.
• Prepare your dredging station with three bowls. In the first bowl, mix together the spices and flour. Add the egg to the second bowl and whisk. Add the breadcrumbs to the third bowl.
• Coat each fish fillet in the flour mixture, then dip into the whisked egg, shaking off any excess egg. Then dredge the fish in the breadcrumbs.
• Place the coated fish fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Spray with oil.
• Air fry at between 390°F and 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Serve immediately with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, if desired.

The best types of fish for air frying

Yes, you can cook breaded fish in an air fryer. In fact, cooking breaded fish in an air fryer is a lot easier and less messy than frying it in oil. The fish will come out perfectly flaky and moist with a delicious, crispy crust on the outside.

• Cod: A mild, firm white fish that works well in an air fryer. It has a flaky texture and a mild flavour that pairs well with various seasonings and sauces.
• Tilapia: Another mild, firm white fish that is versatile and works well with different recipes. It has a delicate flavour and a flaky texture.
• Catfish: Catfish has a firm texture and a slightly sweet taste, making it a good choice for air frying. It holds up well during the cooking process and can be paired with various seasonings.
• Pollock: Pollock is a flaky white fish with a mild flavour, similar to cod. It is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious option for air frying.
• Hake: Hake is a white fish with a mild flavour and a firm, meaty texture. It is a sustainable alternative to other white fish and works well in an air fryer.
• Haddock: Haddock is a flaky white fish with a slightly sweet taste. It has a delicate texture and a mild flavour that pairs well with various seasonings and sauces.
• Salmon: While salmon is not a white fish, it can also be cooked in an air fryer. It has a rich, fatty texture and a distinct flavour that pairs well with various seasonings.

When air frying fish, it is important to ensure that the fish is not overcrowded in the basket, as this can prevent it from crisping properly. You may need to adjust the cooking times depending on the thickness of the fish and the model of your air fryer. It is also recommended to thaw frozen fish completely before air frying and to pat the fish dry with a paper towel before coating it in breading.

How to get the breading to stick

To get the breading to stick to your fish, there are several steps you can take before and during the breading process. Firstly, make sure your fish fillets are patted dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This is important because moisture can prevent the breading from sticking to the fish.

Next, prepare a breading mixture. This can be a simple combination of flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. You can also add seasoning to your flour for extra flavour. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of regular flour and crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Now, it's time to start the breading process. First, dredge the fish in the flour mixture, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Then, dip the fish into the beaten egg, shaking off any excess. Finally, coat the fish with the breadcrumbs, gently pressing the breading onto the fish with your fingers to ensure it adheres well.

Once your fish is coated, place it on a plate or baking sheet and allow the breading to set for a few minutes. You can even place the breaded fish in the fridge for 10-30 minutes to help the breading stick and set before cooking.

By following these steps, you should be able to get the breading to stick to your fish successfully, resulting in a crispy and delicious air-fried dish!

How long to cook the fish for

The cooking time for breaded fish in an air fryer will depend on the type and thickness of the fish fillets, as well as the model of the air fryer.

For example, thinner fillets of fish will generally cook faster than thicker fillets. Tilapia, pollock, hake, and haddock are examples of thinner fish fillets, whereas cod and salmon are thicker fillets that may take a minute or two longer.

Most recipes recommend cooking breaded fish in an air fryer for 10-15 minutes at a temperature setting between 390°F and 400°F (200°C and 204°C). It is important to flip the fish halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

To check if the fish is done, use a fork to gently flake the thickest part of the fillet. If the fish flakes easily, it is ready to be served. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C) to be considered fully cooked.

It is worth noting that some recipes suggest preheating the air fryer to ensure even cooking and to reduce the overall cooking time. Additionally, it is recommended not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.

What to serve with breaded fish

Breaded fish is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides to enhance its flavour and make it a more substantial meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with breaded fish:

Classic Fish and Chips

This classic combination is a favourite for a reason! The crispy, golden breading on the fish pairs perfectly with a generous portion of hot, crispy chips. You can even make the chips in your air fryer for extra convenience and to reduce the amount of oil used.

Potato Wedges and Remoulade

For a slightly different take on the classic, serve your breaded fish with potato wedges instead of chips. Remoulade, a creamy, tangy sauce, can be a delicious dip for the potato wedges and also goes well with the fish.

Baked Potato and Healthy Coleslaw

Baked potatoes are a great side dish as they are substantial and can be loaded with toppings such as sour cream, chives, bacon bits, and cheese. Serving this with a healthy coleslaw, which is usually a mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing, can add some freshness and crunch to your meal.

Mediterranean Rice and a Side Salad

Mediterranean rice, often flavoured with herbs, spices, and vegetables, can be a tasty and colourful accompaniment to breaded fish. Adding a simple side salad of mixed leaves, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy fish.

Roasted Baby Potatoes and Beetroot

Roasted baby potatoes are a delicious and easy side dish. Pairing them with beetroot, either roasted or pickled, can add a unique flavour and vibrant colour to your plate.

Green Vegetables

If you want to include some healthier options, green vegetables are a great choice. Asparagus, green beans, and Brussels sprouts are just a few examples of vegetables that go well with fish. You can roast, steam, or stir-fry them, and they can be served with a variety of sauces or dressings.

Tartar Sauce

Tartar sauce is a classic condiment for fish and can be served with any of the above options. It is usually made with mayonnaise, relish, and herbs and provides a creamy, tangy flavour that complements the fish.

Remember, when choosing sides, consider your personal preferences, the level of effort required, and how well the flavours will pair with your breaded fish.

Frequently asked questions