Air Fryer Crispy Fish Fillets

If you love crispy fried fish but want a lighter, less oily version, Air Fryer Crispy Fish Fillets are the perfect solution. These fillets come out beautifully golden and crunchy on the outside while staying tender and flaky inside. Made with simple pantry ingredients, they’re ideal for quick dinners, fish sandwiches, wraps, or a healthy alternative to deep-frying.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Resting/Chilling Time (optional): 10 minutes

Air Frying Time: 10–12 minutes

Total Time: About 30–35 minutes

Servings: 3–4

Ingredients

4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, haddock, or basa)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Breading Station

½ cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional)

1 large egg, beaten

¾ cup breadcrumbs or panko

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)

Cooking spray or 1½ tablespoons oil

Instructions

Prepare the Fish

Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels.

Sprinkle with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Let rest for 5 minutes.

Set Up the Coating

Bowl 1: Mix flour with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder.

Bowl 2: Beaten egg.

Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.

Bread the Fillets

Dredge each fillet in seasoned flour, shaking off excess.

Dip into egg, then press into breadcrumbs until fully coated.

For extra crunch, repeat egg and breadcrumb step once more.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes.

Air Fry

Lightly grease the air fryer basket.

Place fillets in a single layer (do not overlap).

Spray tops lightly with oil.

Air fry for 5–6 minutes, flip carefully, spray again, and cook another 5–6 minutes until golden and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.

Perfect in fish sandwiches, tacos, or wraps.

Pair with air fryer wedges or a fresh salad.

Tips for Extra Crispy Fish

Use panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch.

Always preheat the air fryer.

Avoid overcrowding—cook in batches if needed.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Crispy Fish Fillets deliver all the crunch you crave with far less oil. Quick, satisfying, and family-friendly, they’re a healthier way to enjoy a classic favorite