Air Fryer Fish: Timing For Perfect Results

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance that can cook food with a crispy, crunchy texture and less grease compared to traditional deep frying. One of the many foods that can be cooked in an air fryer is fish. The cooking time for fish in an air fryer depends on the type and thickness of the fish, as well as the specific model of the air fryer. For example, a six-ounce cod fillet can cook in as little as 12 minutes, while thinner fish fillets may take around 8 minutes. It's important to note that the air fryer basket should not be overcrowded, as this can affect the cooking time and crispness of the fish. Additionally, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer before adding the fish, and to flip the fish halfway through the cooking process for even cooking.

How to get the fish crispy

To get your fish crispy in the air fryer, there are a few key steps to follow. Firstly, ensure that your fish fillets are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket. This is important because overcrowding can cause the fish to steam instead of fry, impacting the crispiness of the final product. It is recommended to cook the fish in batches if necessary, to avoid overcrowding.

The next crucial step is to remove any excess moisture from the fish before adding the breading or seasoning. This can be done by patting the fish dry with paper towels, and it is important because too much moisture can lead to steaming and prevent the desired crispy texture.

When it comes to breading, opt for dry breading and shake off any excess before placing the fish in the air fryer. You can use breadcrumbs, cornmeal, or a combination of both for the coating. Additionally, spraying the fish with oil halfway through the cooking process can enhance crispiness.

Another factor that contributes to crispiness is the temperature and cooking time. Preheat your air fryer to around 380-400 degrees Fahrenheit, and cook the fish for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. For thinner fillets, a shorter cooking time may be necessary to prevent overcooking.

Finally, don't forget to flip the fish halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. By following these steps, you should be able to achieve crispy, golden fish fillets cooked in your air fryer.

What type of fish to use

When it comes to choosing the right type of fish to cook in an air fryer, there are several options to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Type of Fish

Moderately thin, white, and flaky fish such as cod, haddock, pollock, tilapia, catfish, hake, or mahi-mahi are ideal for air frying. These fish have a mild flavour and a delicate texture that cooks evenly and quickly in the air fryer. They are also versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, such as fish tacos, fish and chips, or served simply with fries and tartar sauce.

It is best to avoid thicker fish fillets like tuna or swordfish, as they will take longer to cook and may not be as suitable for the air fryer method.

Fresh or Frozen

You can use either fresh or frozen fish fillets in an air fryer. If using frozen fish, it is important to ensure that it is completely thawed before cooking. This can be done by leaving the fish in the fridge overnight or submerging it in ice-cold water for an hour or until thawed. It is also crucial to remove any excess moisture from the fish before cooking, as this can affect the crispness of the final dish.

Breading and Seasoning

Air fryers are great for creating a crispy exterior on breaded fish. When using breading, it is best to use dry breading and shake off any excess before placing the fish in the air fryer. This will help ensure a crispy, golden coating. You can also season the fish with spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, or salt to enhance the flavour.

Cooking Time and Temperature

The cooking time and temperature will depend on the type and thickness of the fish, as well as the model of your air fryer. As a general guideline, cook the fish at a temperature between 380-400°F (about 200°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping the fish halfway through the cooking process. However, it is important to keep an eye on the fish to avoid overcooking, as some fish can cook in as little as 5-8 minutes.

How to prepare the fish

Air fryers are a fantastic way to cook fish, achieving a crispy exterior without the need for deep frying. The process is simple, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure your fish is cooked to perfection.

Firstly, it is important to start with the right type of fish. Air fryers work best with moderately thin, white and flaky fillets, such as cod, haddock, pollock or mahi mahi. Thicker fillets, like tuna or swordfish, will take longer to cook and may not be ideal for this method. If your fish is frozen, it is best to let it thaw overnight in the fridge or for an hour in cold water.

Once you have your fish, it's time to prepare it for cooking. Start by patting the fillets dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps to remove any excess moisture, ensuring a better sear and crispier results. Next, cut the fish into strips or portion-sized fillets, ensuring they are all relatively the same size for even cooking.

Now it's time to season your fish. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper, or a breadcrumb coating. If using a breadcrumb coating, set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs. Season the flour with your chosen spices, then dip the fish into each bowl, coating evenly. Alternatively, you can simply season the fish with your chosen spices and spray with oil.

With your fish prepared, it's now time to cook it in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to around 380-400°F (200°C). While it's preheating, give the basket a quick spritz with some non-stick spray. Then, place your fish in the basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. This ensures the hot air can circulate around each fillet.

Finally, it's time to cook your fish. Depending on the thickness of your fillets and the model of your air fryer, the cooking time will vary, but generally, it should take around 10-15 minutes. Be sure to flip the fish halfway through for even cooking. Check that the fish is cooked to your liking by testing with a fork – it should flake easily. If needed, return the fish to the air fryer for an additional minute or two.

How long to cook the fish for

The cooking time for fish in an air fryer depends on several factors, including the type of fish, its thickness, and the model of the air fryer. It is recommended to cook the fish until it is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.

For thin, white, and flaky fish such as cod, haddock, pollock, or mahi-mahi, the cooking time is generally shorter, around 10 to 12 minutes in the air fryer. It is important to ensure that the fish is not overcrowded in the air fryer basket, as this can affect the cooking time and crispness of the fish.

For thicker fish fillets like tuna or swordfish, the cooking time will be longer. It is recommended to avoid these thicker fillets in the air fryer as they can take a while to cook.

When cooking frozen fish, it is best to let it thaw overnight in the fridge or in cold water for an hour. Frozen fish can be cooked directly in the air fryer, but it may take a little longer, up to 15 minutes.

The cooking temperature also varies, with some recipes recommending 380°F to 390°F (200°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, while others suggest 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes. It is important to flip the fish halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

It is worth noting that some fish can cook in as little as five minutes in an air fryer, so it is crucial to keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. Additionally, the type of breading or seasoning used can also impact the cooking time, with some recipes suggesting a cooking time of 5 minutes per side at 380°F.

What to serve the fish with

There are several side dishes that you can serve with air-fried fish. Here are some ideas:

Tartar Sauce

A classic condiment to serve with fish, tartar sauce is a must-have for your air-fried fish dish. It adds a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavour that pairs well with the crispy fish.

Lemon Wedges

Squeezing fresh lemon juice over your air-fried fish will enhance its flavour and brightness. The acidity of the lemon also helps to cut through the richness of the dish, especially if you're serving it with tartar sauce.

Fries

Whether you go for traditional French fries or opt for sweet potato fries, they make a great side dish to air-fried fish. They provide a contrasting texture to the crispy fish and are perfect for dipping into tartar sauce or ketchup.

Salad

If you're looking for something lighter to serve with your air-fried fish, a salad is a great option. You can keep it simple with a mix of greens, or try something like a fish and chips salad, coleslaw, or a Greek lemon potato salad.

Vegetables

Air-fried fish goes well with a variety of vegetables. You can try air fryer asparagus and mushrooms, or serve it with steamed veggies for a well-balanced meal.

Potato Dishes

In addition to fries, there are several other potato-based side dishes that complement air-fried fish. Baked potato wedges, cheesy mashed potato cakes, or even just simple baked potatoes are all excellent choices.

When deciding what to serve with your air-fried fish, consider the flavours and textures that will complement the dish. You can also think about the overall theme of the meal, such as a traditional fish and chips dinner or a lighter, healthier meal with more vegetables.

Frequently asked questions