Air-Fryer Frozen Fish: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance due to their convenience and ability to cook food quickly with minimal cleanup. One common question that people have is whether you can cook frozen fish in an air fryer without thawing it first. The answer is yes! Cooking frozen fish in an air fryer is a convenient and quick way to prepare a delicious meal. You can bread the fish or cook it without any breading, and it will turn out flaky and juicy on the inside with golden brown, crispy edges.

No need to defrost

You can cook frozen fish in an air fryer without defrosting it first. This is a quick and easy way to make a delicious dish straight from the freezer.

The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets and the type of air fryer you have. As a general rule, it should take around 12-20 minutes to cook frozen fish fillets in an air fryer.

• Preheat your air fryer to between 380-400°F.
• If needed, prepare the air fryer basket with olive oil, aluminum foil, parchment paper, or a non-stick cooking spray.
• Place the frozen fish fillets into the air fryer basket in a single layer directly from the freezer. No thawing is needed, but make sure they aren't overlapping.
• Air fry the fish fillets for 10-15 minutes.
• Carefully flip the fish fillets and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

You can serve the fish fillets with a side of fries, hush puppies, and lemon wedges, and your favorite sauce, such as tartar sauce.

Breaded vs non-breaded fillets

Breaded and non-breaded fillets can both be cooked in an air fryer, but there are some differences in the way they are prepared and cooked.

Non-breaded fillets

Non-breaded fillets can be cooked straight from frozen. It is recommended that you pat the fish dry with a paper towel and brush it with a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, dried oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. You can then place the fish in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 15-20 minutes at 400°F. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets, so it is a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check that the fish has reached a safe internal temperature of 145°F.

Breaded fillets

Breaded fillets can also be cooked straight from frozen. However, unlike non-breaded fillets, you should not flip breaded fillets halfway through cooking. Instead, place the frozen breaded fish fillets in the air fryer basket and cook at 380°F for 12 minutes. Then, flip the fillets over and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. As with non-breaded fillets, it is important to ensure that the fish reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F.

Oil and seasoning

When it comes to seasoning your frozen fish, you have a lot of options. You can use dried or fresh herbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and more. Get creative and experiment with different combinations of seasonings to find your favorite.

If you're using an air fryer, you'll want to add a small amount of oil to the fish before cooking. This will help the seasonings stick to the fish and also enhance the crispiness of the final product. Olive oil is a good choice because it adds a nice flavor, but you can also use avocado oil or vegetable oil. You can brush the oil onto the fish or use an oil spray bottle to ensure even coverage.

If you're cooking breaded frozen fish, the process is a little different. Instead of adding oil directly to the fish, you'll want to mix it with the breadcrumbs. This will help the breadcrumbs toast up and get nice and crispy. You can also add some milk and Dijon mustard to the breadcrumbs to create a delicious, crispy coating for your fish.

When it comes to seasoning the breadcrumbs, you have a lot of options. You can use salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any other spices you like. Get creative and experiment with different combinations of seasonings to find your favorite.

If you're cooking frozen fish in the oven or on the stovetop, you can simply drizzle or brush oil over the seasoned fish before cooking. This will help the seasonings stick to the fish and also prevent the fish from sticking to your pan or baking sheet.

Remember, if you're cooking breaded fish, the process is a little different. You'll want to mix the oil and seasonings with the breadcrumbs, rather than applying them directly to the fish.

Whether you're cooking your frozen fish in an air fryer, oven, or stovetop, don't be afraid to get creative with your seasonings and oils. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. Just remember to add a small amount of oil to enhance crispiness and help the seasonings stick to the fish.

Air fryer temperature

The specific temperature within this range that you choose will depend on the type and thickness of the fish, as well as the model of your air fryer. For instance, thicker fillets or those with a heartier breading may require a higher temperature of around 400°F. On the other hand, cooking more delicate fish or using an air fryer model with different heating elements may call for a temperature closer to 350°F.

It's worth noting that not all air fryers have the same temperature increments, so you may need to adjust the temperature setting to match the recommended range. Additionally, the cooking time will vary depending on the type of fish and the desired level of doneness. For example, thin tilapia fillets may cook faster than thicker cuts of cod or halibut.

To ensure your fish is perfectly cooked, look for an opaque and flaky texture. You can also use a digital thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached a safe 140-145°F (60-63°C). Remember, visual cues and temperature readings are your friends in the kitchen!

Sides and sauces

Now that you know how to cook frozen fish in an air fryer, it's time to talk about sides and sauces! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delicious and satisfying:

• Tartar sauce: A classic pairing for breaded fish, tartar sauce adds a creamy contrast to the crispy fish. It's a simple yet effective choice that complements the flavours of the fish without overwhelming them.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over your fish will add a bright, fresh flavour. It's a simple way to enhance your dish and make it taste even better.
• Fries: Whether you prefer regular or sweet potato fries, they make an excellent side for your fish. The soft inside and crunchy outside provide a perfect textural contrast to the fish, especially if it's breaded.
• Hushpuppies: These delicious cornmeal fritters are a traditional side dish that goes perfectly with fish. They have a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior that makes them irresistible.
• Salads: Fish pairs well with a variety of salads, such as arugula, goat cheese, and beet salad, or a creamy carrot and raisin salad. You can also go for a heartier option like a purple cabbage coleslaw.
• Vegetables: Roasted green beans and potatoes, air fryer zucchini fries, purple mashed potatoes, or crispy potato wedges are just a few vegetable sides that will complement your fish.
• Pasta and grains: Buckwheat groats, beetroot pasta, or fennel risotto are some unique options that will make your meal more interesting. Millet is another great choice that goes well with fish.
• Fish tacos: Turn your breaded fish into a fun and hearty meal by placing it in a soft taco shell with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of creamy sauce.
• Fish burger: For a twist on the traditional beef burger, place your breaded fish between two buns with some lettuce, tomatoes, and a tangy sauce. It's a filling and delicious option that will satisfy your cravings.
• Fish salad: If you're looking for a lighter option, serve your breaded fish on a bed of mixed greens tossed with a light vinaigrette. The warm, crispy fish will provide a delightful contrast to the cool, crisp salad.

Feel free to experiment with different sides and sauces to find your favourite combinations! The beauty of cooking frozen fish in an air fryer is that it's a versatile and convenient method that allows you to explore various flavours and create delicious meals.

Frequently asked questions