Air Fried Fish Fillet

Table of Contents

Intro

Air fried fish fillets are a lighter twist on traditional fried fish. With minimal oil, you still get that perfect crunch on the outside while the inside stays tender and flaky. This recipe is great with white fish like tilapia, cod, haddock, basa, or catfish. It’s easy, fast, and family-friendly—ideal for fish tacos, sandwiches, or as-is with a dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 10–12 mins

Total Time: ~22 mins

Servings: 2–4

Air Fryer Temp: 400°F (200°C)

Ingredients

2 white fish fillets (tilapia, cod, etc.) – about 4–6 oz each

1/2 cup breadcrumbs or panko

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra crisp)

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp salt

1 egg (for dredging)

1 tbsp milk

Olive oil spray (or cooking spray)

Lemon wedges & tartar sauce (for serving, optional)

Instructions

Prep the Fish (2–3 mins)

Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels.

If fillets are very thick, you can slice them thinner to ensure even cooking.

Make Breading Station (2 mins)

In one bowl:

Beat 1 egg with 1 tbsp milk.
In another bowl:

Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Bread the Fillets (2–3 mins)

Dip each fish fillet into the egg wash.

Then coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.

Press gently to make sure the coating sticks well.

Preheat Air Fryer (2 mins)

Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2 minutes.

Timing:

Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway at the 6-minute mark.

Fillets are done when golden brown and internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C).

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

Coleslaw or side salad

Air fried potato wedges

Lemon garlic aioli or tartar sauce

Or break into pieces for tacos or rice bowls

Tips for Success

For extra crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs.

Avoid overcrowding the basket—cook in batches if needed.

Want spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne to the breading.

Works well with frozen fish too—just thaw fully before coating.