Quick & Tasty Air Fryer White Fish Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer White Fish is a quick and easy way to cook fish without the hassle of traditional frying. The air fryer ensures that the fish comes out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside with just a light spray of oil. It’s a healthier alternative to pan-frying or deep-frying, and it’s ready in under 15 minutes! Plus, it’s versatile—use your favorite white fish and season it to your liking with herbs, spices, or marinades. It’s a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a healthy lunch option.

Ingredients

• 2 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, haddock, or your preferred fish)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or cooking spray)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Fish:

• Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures the fish gets crispy in the air fryer.

• Brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil (or lightly spray with cooking spray) to promote crispiness.

2. Season the Fish:

• Sprinkle the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper evenly over both sides of the fish fillets. You can adjust the seasonings based on your taste preferences.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the fish cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.

4. Air Fry the Fish:

• Place the seasoned fish fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the fillets in batches.

• Air fry the fish at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and easily flakes with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the fillets and the type of fish, so check for doneness after 8 minutes.

5. Serve:

• Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the air fryer. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill if desired.

• Serve the fish with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 servings

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 8-10 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add Herbs: Try using fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to season the fish for a more herby flavor.

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning for a spicy kick.

• Lemon & Garlic Marinade: Marinate the fish in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 15-30 minutes before cooking for added flavor.

• Crispy Coating: For a crunchier coating, dip the fish in beaten egg and coat it with breadcrumbs before air frying.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover air fryer white fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze cooked fish fillets for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the fish in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to warm through and crisp back up. You can also microwave it, but it won’t be as crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. If you’re cooking from frozen, you may need to add an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.

How do I know when the fish is done?

The fish is done when it easily flakes with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, check the fish by gently pulling it apart with a fork.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can use any mild-flavored white fish such as tilapia, cod, haddock, or pollock. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Can I add a breading to the fish?

Absolutely! For a breaded version, dip the fish fillets in beaten egg, then coat them in breadcrumbs or panko before air frying for a crispy, golden crust.

Conclusion

Quick & Tasty Air Fryer White Fish is an easy and healthy way to enjoy flavorful fish in just minutes. The air fryer ensures the fish is perfectly crispy on the outside while staying tender and flaky on the inside. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Plus, it’s versatile—season it to your liking or add a crispy coating for an extra crunch. Enjoy this healthy, tasty dish with your favorite sides and savor every bite!

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