Frozen Fish In Air Fryer

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Frozen fish in the air fryer is a quick and effortless way to enjoy a healthy and crispy meal without the need to thaw. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners, this method delivers flaky, tender fish with a lightly crisp exterior—ideal for serving with veggies, salads, or your favorite dipping sauces.

ingredients

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

frozen white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
olive oil spray or cooking spray
lemon wedges (optional for serving)
salt
pepper
garlic powder
paprika
optional: tartar sauce or dipping sauce of choice

directions

Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Lightly spray both sides of the frozen fish fillets with olive oil or cooking spray.

Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Place the seasoned frozen fish fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Cook for 10-13 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is golden and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve immediately with lemon wedges and dipping sauce, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-4 people depending on portion size.
Preparation time: 2 minutes
Cooking time: 10-13 minutes
Total time: 12-15 minutes

Variations

Add a breadcrumb coating for extra crunch—dip thawed fish in egg wash and coat in breadcrumbs before air frying.
Use Cajun or Italian seasoning for a flavor twist.
Serve over rice bowls or fish tacos for a full meal.

storage/reheating

Store leftover cooked fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore crispness.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish soggy.

FAQs

Can I cook frozen breaded fish in the air fryer?

Yes, breaded frozen fish works great in the air fryer and becomes crispy without extra oil.

Do I need to thaw the fish first?

No, air frying allows you to cook it straight from frozen.

How do I know when the fish is done?

The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I stack fish in the air fryer?

No, always cook in a single layer for even air circulation and crispiness.

What kind of fish works best?

White fish like cod, tilapia, haddock, or pollock are ideal for this method.

Conclusion

Making frozen fish in the air fryer is a game-changer for easy, delicious, and healthy meals. With minimal prep and cook time, you can enjoy perfectly crispy fish without the hassle of thawing or deep frying. A reliable go-to for quick lunches and dinners alike.

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