Want perfectly crispy fish fillets without the messy oil splatter? Your air fryer is the secret weapon for transforming frozen fish into a restaurant-worthy meal in just 14 minutes. This foolproof method delivers flaky, tender fish with a golden-brown exterior – while keeping the calories incredibly low at just 1 kcal per fillet.
Whether you’re watching your waistline or simply craving a quick, wholesome dinner, these air fryer frozen fish fillets hit all the right notes with minimal prep and maximum flavor.
Ingredients Needed
- Fish Fillets: 4 frozen fillets (8 ounces each), great source of lean protein
Cooking Instructions
- Preparation: Unwrap the frozen fish fillets from their packaging, keeping them frozen
- Basket Arrangement: Arrange fillets in air fryer basket, ensuring they’re in a single layer without overlapping for even cooking
- Air Frying Time: Set temperature to 360°F/180°C and cook for 12-14 minutes
- Mid-Cook Flip: Gently flip fillets halfway through cooking for even crispiness
- Temperature Check: Ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F/63°C for food safety
Air Fryer Tips
Hey there! Want to get the best results with your frozen fish? Keep the fillets in a single layer – this lets the hot air flow all around them for that perfect crispy outside. If you’re cooking for the whole family, just do smaller batches instead of cramming them all in. A quick flip halfway through cooking helps everything brown evenly!
How to Check for Doneness
Not sure if your fish is ready? Here’s a super easy way to tell: the fish should flake easily with a fork and look opaque all the way through. If you have a food thermometer (so handy!), pop it into the thickest part – you’re looking for 145°F. The fish should be moist and tender, not dry or rubbery.
Serving Ideas
These crispy fish fillets taste amazing with so many sides! Try them with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a side of air fryer french fries for a healthier take on fish and chips. A simple green salad or steamed veggies make it a complete meal. For a quick sauce, mix some tartar sauce with a dash of hot sauce, or keep it light with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, pop them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, put them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes – they’ll crisp right up! The microwave works too, but the fish won’t be as crispy. Just remember, fish usually tastes best when it’s freshly cooked.
Air Fryer Frozen Fish Fillets
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 4 8-ounce frozen fish fillets
Instructions
- Remove the frozen fish filets from their outer packaging.
- Place the frozen fish fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping. Cook in multiple batches if need be.
- Air Fry at 360°F/180°C for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C.