Fish is one of the most versatile proteins you can cook, whether you love it flaky and tender, crispy and breaded, or infused with bold flavours. Traditionally, fish has been baked in the oven, pan-fried, or deep-fried. But if you own an air fryer, you’ll know it unlocks a whole new world of convenience. Air fryer fish recipes are quick, healthier than deep frying, and still deliver that irresistible crunch and flavour.
In this post, I’ll share some of my favourite air fryer fish recipes from my kitchen, including cod, tuna steak, salmon fillets, scampi, and even comforting dishes like fish pie and kedgeree. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a speedy weeknight meal, or something a little special, there’s an air fryer fish recipe here for you.
Why Cook Fish in the Air Fryer?
Air fryers work by circulating hot air around your food, creating a golden, crispy exterior without the need for excess oil. Here are a few reasons why fish is a perfect match for the air fryer:
Speedy dinners – Most fish fillets cook in under 15 minutes.
Healthier option – You’ll use far less oil compared to frying.
Perfect texture – Crispy coating or flaky fillet, the air fryer gets it right every time.
Less mess – No greasy frying pans, no lingering oil smell in the kitchen.
Air Fryer Cod Parcels
Cod is a mild, white fish that’s perfect for family meals and pairs beautifully with crispy coatings. Cooking cod in the air fryer gives it that crunchy outside while keeping the flesh soft and juicy.
For a light option, season cod fillets simply with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.
For something heartier, coat the cod in breadcrumbs or panko for a golden crust.
Serve with chips for a classic air fryer fish and chips dinner, or pair it with a fresh salad for a healthier twist.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Tuna Steak
If you love your fish meaty and full of flavour, tuna steak is a fantastic choice for the air fryer. It cooks in just minutes, and you can adjust the doneness to your liking. Seared and rare in the middle, or more well-done if preferred.
Season tuna steaks with soy sauce, sesame oil, and a little ginger for an Asian-inspired dish, or keep it simple with olive oil, lemon, and black pepper. Serve with rice or a crunchy stir-fry of air fryer vegetables for a nutritious, filling meal.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Salmon Fillets
Salmon is one of the most popular fish for good reason, it’s rich in flavour, full of healthy omega-3s, and pairs with a wide range of seasonings. The air fryer makes cooking salmon almost foolproof: the outside caramelises beautifully while the inside stays moist and flaky.
Try garlic butter salmon fillets for a classic family favourite.
Add a honey and soy glaze for a sweet-savoury kick.
Or keep it Mediterranean with olive oil, paprika, and fresh herbs.
These fillets are perfect served with roast potatoes, steamed veggies, or even tossed into a pasta dish for a quick weeknight dinner.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a great way to add fun and flavour to mealtimes, and the air fryer helps you prepare the fish in minutes. Use cod, haddock, or even salmon as the base.
Breaded or seasoned fish works beautifully, tucked into warm tortillas with crunchy slaw, avocado, salsa, and a squeeze of lime. You can even serve them as a DIY taco night where everyone builds their own.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Breaded Fish
One of the best things about the air fryer is its ability to make crispy breaded fish without the need for deep frying. Whether you’re using cod, haddock, or even tilapia, a simple breadcrumb or panko coating creates that satisfying crunch.
Serve your breaded fish with homemade tartare sauce and chunky chips for a healthier version of the classic British takeaway. It’s family-friendly, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Scampi
Scampi is usually deep-fried, but the air fryer makes it possible to achieve that same crunch with far less oil. Frozen scampi cooks brilliantly in the air fryer, meaning you can have dinner on the table in less than 15 minutes.
Pair with peas and chips for a simple pub-style dinner at home. Or add a fresh green salad for a lighter option that’s just as tasty.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Fish Fingers
Fish fingers are a classic childhood favourite, and they cook perfectly in the air fryer. Whether you’re using shop-bought or making your own from scratch with chunks of cod or haddock, they come out golden and crisp every time.
Air fryer fish fingers are ideal for quick family dinners. Serve them with baked beans, chips, or tucked inside a sandwich for a nostalgic treat.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Kedgeree
If you’re after something a little different, try making kedgeree in the air fryer. Traditionally made with rice, smoked fish, and eggs, it’s a comforting dish that’s great for brunch or a light dinner.
Cooking the fish element in the air fryer helps lock in flavour without drying it out. Flaked smoked haddock or salmon works beautifully, stirred through the rice with fresh herbs and spices.
Get the full recipe here.
Air Fryer Fish Pie
Yes, even a hearty fish pie can benefit from the air fryer! While the filling is prepared on the hob, you can top the pie with mashed potato and use the air fryer to crisp it up perfectly.
It’s a quicker, easier way to get that golden crust without waiting for the oven to preheat. A great family dinner that feels comforting but still modern with the air fryer twist.
Get the full recipe here.
Tips for Cooking Fish in the Air Fryer
To get the very best results with your air fryer fish recipes, keep these tips in mind:
Don’t overcrowd the basket – Leave space around each piece so the air circulates properly.
Pat fish dry first – This helps seasonings stick and prevents sogginess.
Use a light oil spray – A quick spritz of oil makes coatings extra crispy.
Check doneness carefully – Fish cooks quickly. Aim for flaky flesh that’s opaque all the way through.
Line with parchment paper (optional) – Helps prevent delicate fillets from sticking.
Sides to Serve with Air Fryer Fish
Air fryer fish is delicious on its own, but the right side dishes make it a complete meal. Try pairing your fish with:
Chips or wedges – For that classic fish and chip combo.
Air fryer vegetables – Roasted carrots, sprouts, or courgettes add colour and nutrients.
Salads – Fresh coleslaw, Greek salad, or avocado salsa are perfect for lighter meals.
Grains – Rice, couscous, or quinoa for a filling base.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer fish is proof that you don’t need complicated cooking methods or lots of oil to create tasty, satisfying meals. From crispy cod and salmon fillets to family-friendly fish fingers and even a golden-topped fish pie, the air fryer makes fish dinners quicker, healthier, and just as delicious.
Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a speedy weeknight dinner, or a comforting dish for the whole family, these recipes have you covered. Once you’ve tried fish in the air fryer, you may never want to cook it any other way!
Read my other blog posts about Air Fryer Chicken Recipes, Air fryer Desserts or Slow Cooker Soup Recipes.
If you are looking for more air fryer inspiration, visit my Amazon shop to order your copy of my best selling cookbooks.