Air Fryer Fish: Perfectly Broiled In Minutes

Fish is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways, and air fryers are a convenient way to prepare it healthily and quickly. The cooking time for fish in an air fryer depends on the type and thickness of the fish, as well as the model of the air fryer. For example, cod fillets may take around 12 minutes to cook in an air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, while thinner fillets may take less time. It's important to ensure that the air fryer basket is not overcrowded to allow for even cooking and crisping. Additionally, it's recommended to preheat the air fryer before adding the fish, and to flip the fillets halfway through the cooking process for even cooking.

Fish types and cooking times

The cooking time for fish in an air fryer depends on the type of fish and its thickness. Here are some common types of fish and the corresponding cooking times:

• Tilapia: Tilapia fillets are thin and cook faster than thicker cuts of fish. The cooking time is about 6-12 minutes at 360°F/182°C.
• Cod: Cod fillets are thicker and require a longer cooking time. It is recommended to cook them for about 16 minutes at 370°F.
• Haddock: This type of fish is similar to cod in thickness and cooking time. It is recommended to cook haddock for about 12-15 minutes at 350-400°F.
• Sea Bass: Sea bass fillets are also thicker and require a similar cooking time to cod and haddock. It is recommended to cook them for about 12-20 minutes at 350-400°F.
• Salmon: Salmon fillets are best cooked at a higher temperature of 390°F for 12-15 minutes.
• Other types of fish: Other types of fish, such as catfish, pollock, hake, and arctic char, can also be cooked in the air fryer. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets and the specific model of the air fryer. It is recommended to cook them at a temperature range of 350-400°F for 12-20 minutes.

It is important to note that the cooking times may vary depending on the specific model of the air fryer and the thickness of the fish fillets. It is always a good idea to check the fish for doneness by using a digital thermometer or looking for an opaque and flaky texture.

Air fryer temperature

The air fryer temperature for cooking fish depends on the type of fish and the desired level of crispness. For softer fish like cod, a temperature of 370 Fahrenheit for 15-16 minutes is recommended. For red fish, a temperature of 370 Fahrenheit for 20 minutes is suggested.

When cooking fish in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that the air fryer basket is not overcrowded to allow for even cooking and crisping. The cooking time may also need to be adjusted depending on the thickness of the fish fillets and the model of the air fryer.

For breaded fish, a lower temperature of around 350-360 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended. This ensures that the breading does not burn before the fish is cooked through. The cooking time for breaded fish is typically around 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

When cooking fish in an air fryer, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking. Additionally, using non-stick liners or parchment paper can help prevent the fish from sticking to the air fryer basket.

Air fryer preparation

Step 1: Choosing the Fish

You can use any kind of fish fillets for air frying, such as cod, tilapia, catfish, pollock, hake, haddock, salmon, steelhead, wahoo, arctic char, ocean trout, mackerel, striped bass, or even sole. The type of fish you choose will determine the cooking time, with softer fish like cod requiring less time than firmer fish like salmon.

Step 2: Preparing the Fish

If your fish is frozen, make sure to defrost it thoroughly before cooking. You can do this by leaving it in the fridge overnight or, if it's a smaller piece, by submerging it in ice-cold water for an hour. Do not use a microwave to defrost, as this can make the fish rubbery. Dry the fish fillets with a paper towel and spray or coat them lightly with oil.

Step 3: Breading the Fish (Optional)

If you want a crispy, crunchy texture, you can bread the fish before air frying. To do this, mix dried breadcrumbs with your choice of seasonings, such as onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, chili powder, or salt, in a shallow bowl. Coat each fish fillet with the breading, shaking off any excess, and place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't overlap.

Step 4: Cooking the Fish

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, which can range from 350-400°F (180-200°C) depending on the recipe. Cook the fish for 10-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets and the type of fish. For breaded fish, you may need to flip the fillets halfway through cooking. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Serving the Fish

Air-fried fish goes well with a variety of side dishes, such as air fryer asparagus and mushrooms, oven-baked fries or potato wedges, cheesy mashed potato cakes, tartar sauce, and hot sauce. You can also serve it as fish tacos or in a po' boy sandwich.

Fish defrosting

The best way to defrost frozen fish is to let it sit overnight in your refrigerator. This slow thawing method will allow you to control the temperature, which is key to maintaining the quality of the fish.

Here's how to do it:

• Place a wire rack or drip pan on a sheet pan.
• Remove the fish from its packaging and place it on the rack.
• Lightly cover the fish with a single layer of plastic wrap, ensuring the ends of the pan are sealed.
• Place the pan in the refrigerator to thaw; this will take between 10 and 36 hours, depending on the size and thickness of the fish.

If you're short on time, you can use the cold-water method. Here's how:

• Remove the fish from its packaging and place it in a resealable plastic bag.
• Submerge the bagged fish in a bowl of cold water, replacing the water as needed. This will take about 10 minutes.

Other methods for defrosting fish include:

• Countertop thawing: Leave the vacuum-sealed fish on the countertop for a couple of hours until it is cool but not totally thawed, then move it to the refrigerator.
• Microwave: The microwave can help thaw fish enough to cook with as it heats the interior and exterior.
• Bowl of cool water: Place the frozen package in a bowl of cool water for 30 minutes, then swap out the water and flip the package if it's not submerged. After another 30 minutes, it should be ready.

It's important to note that fish with a flaky structure, such as cod, halibut, pollock, haddock, and tilapia, are better thawed slowly in the refrigerator. Meaty fish with a firmer structure, like shark, shrimp, and swordfish, can be quickly thawed with the cold-water method.

Additionally, it is recommended to avoid thawing fish in vacuum-sealed packages due to the risk of botulism, a harmful pathogen that thrives in anaerobic environments. Instead, remove the fish from the vacuum-sealed package and allow oxygen to get in, or transfer it to another plastic bag with an open top for the cold-water method.

Once your fish is thawed, it's best to cook it immediately. However, if you need to store it, place it in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or airtight container, and use it within a few days. Avoid refreezing thawed fish as it may affect its quality.

Fish breading

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Start by rinsing your fish fillets under cold running water, then pat them dry with paper towels. If your fillets are frozen, make sure they are completely thawed before breading and air frying. You can also use fresh fish, but make sure it is not too thin as thin strips won't work well in this recipe.

Step 2: Make the Breading

In a shallow bowl, mix dry bread crumbs with your choice of seasonings. You can use store-bought or homemade breadcrumbs. For the seasonings, you can use onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, or any other spices you like. You can also add in some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavour. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Fish

Drizzle or brush the fish fillets with oil to help the breading stick. You can use olive oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil. Then, dip each fillet into the bread crumb mixture, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Gently shake off any excess breading before placing the fillets into your air fryer basket.

Step 4: Air Fry the Fish

Preheat your air fryer to between 350-400°F (180-200°C). The ideal temperature will depend on the type of fish you are using and your personal preference for doneness. Place the breaded fillets into the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the basket. Air fry for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. For thinner fillets, check on them after 8-10 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Serve

Once your fish is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and serve hot. You can serve it with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or your favourite sides. Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions