Air Fryer Frozen Fish: How Long Does It Take?

Cooking frozen fish in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to prepare a delicious meal. The air fryer's hot circulating air cooks the fish evenly and quickly, resulting in a juicy fillet with a crispy exterior. The cooking time will depend on the type and thickness of the fish, but generally, it takes between 10 to 20 minutes to cook frozen fish in an air fryer.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is a crucial step in achieving that desirable crispy exterior on your frozen fish. It ensures your fish cooks evenly and is therefore an important step that should not be overlooked.

Different air fryers will have different preheat functions. If your air fryer has a preheat button, simply press this and wait for your air fryer to reach the desired temperature. If your air fryer does not have a preheat button, turn the air fryer on at your desired temperature and wait 3-5 minutes for it to heat up.

The ideal temperature to preheat your air fryer to when cooking frozen fish is between 350-400°F. This temperature allows the fish to cook through while achieving a desirable crispy exterior.

It is important to adjust the temperature based on the type of fish you are preparing and the model of your air fryer. For example, thicker fillets or those with a hearty breading may require a higher temperature.

Once your air fryer has preheated, it is time to arrange the fish fillets. Place them in a single layer with enough space between each piece to allow for proper air circulation. This spacing is key to achieving an even cook and the desired crispiness on all sides of the fillets.

Cook time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for frozen fish in an air fryer will depend on the type of fish, the specific model of the air fryer, and personal preferences for texture and crispness. Here are some general guidelines to achieve the desired results:

Preheating:

Preheating your air fryer is crucial for even cooking and achieving a crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer for about 3 to 5 minutes before adding the fish.

Temperature and Time:

The recommended temperature range for cooking most frozen fish fillets is between 350-400°F (176-204°C). The cooking time can vary from 12 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness and type of fish. For example, thin tilapia fillets may cook faster than thicker cuts of cod or halibut. The cooking time will also depend on whether the fish is breaded or not. Non-breaded fillets typically take 12 to 15 minutes, while breaded fillets may need a few extra minutes to reach the desired crispness.

It is important to note that the cooking time may need to be adjusted based on the specific model of your air fryer. For instance, models like the 5.8qt Cosori or the Ninja Foodi may require slight adjustments to the cooking time.

Visual and Temperature Cues for Doneness:

To ensure your fish is perfectly cooked, look for an opaque and flaky texture. You can also use a digital thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 140-145°F (60-63°C).

Flipping for Evenness:

It is important to flip the fish fillets halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking on both sides. This helps to prevent having a half-crispy, half-soft fillet.

Arranging the Fish Fillets:

When placing the fish in the air fryer, arrange them in a single layer with enough space between each piece to allow for proper air circulation. This spacing is crucial for achieving an even cook and the desired crispiness on all sides of the fillets.

Flipping the fillets

When flipping the fillets, it is important to use a nonstick spatula to prevent the delicate fish from breaking apart. This will help maintain the integrity of the fish for a beautiful presentation on your plate. Additionally, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer before placing the fillets inside to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.

The cooking time for frozen fish fillets in an air fryer can vary depending on the thickness of the fillets and the specific model of the air fryer. As a general rule, non-breaded fillets take anywhere from 12 to 15 minutes, while breaded fillets might need a few extra minutes to reach the desired level of crispness. For example, Gorton's breaded fish fillets are recommended to be cooked at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

It is also important to note that the internal temperature of the fish should reach 140-145°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat. A digital thermometer can be used to check the temperature accurately.

Check for doneness

Checking for doneness is an important step to ensure your frozen fish is cooked safely and thoroughly. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 140-145°F, indicating that it is fully cooked and safe to eat. This temperature range is crucial to eliminate any harmful bacteria and ensure the fish is ready to be enjoyed.

To check for doneness, use a digital thermometer to measure the internal temperature of the fish fillets. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fish, making sure it doesn't touch any bones, as they can conduct heat and give a false reading. The ideal temperature range is 140-145°F, but if your thermometer reads a slightly lower temperature, that's okay too. As long as it's at least 140°F, your fish is good to go.

In addition to temperature, you can also look for visual cues to determine doneness. A well-cooked fish fillet will have an opaque and flaky texture. This means that the flesh of the fish will be slightly translucent and will easily flake apart when prodded with a fork. If your fish is still translucent and resistant to flaking, it likely needs more time in the air fryer.

It's important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and type of fish, as well as the specific model of your air fryer. Thicker fillets, such as those of cod or halibut, will generally require a longer cooking time compared to thinner fillets like tilapia. Therefore, it's always a good idea to refer to the cooking instructions provided by the manufacturer of your frozen fish and make adjustments as needed.

Additionally, don't be afraid to open the air fryer basket and check on your fish during the cooking process. This will help you get a sense of how it's cooking and determine if any adjustments are necessary. Just remember to close the basket quickly to maintain the temperature inside the air fryer.

Reheating and storing

Leftover fish fillets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat the fish in the air fryer at 350–390°F for 2–3 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, heat the fillets on a microwave-safe plate in the microwave for 2 minutes.

Frequently asked questions