Over the past few years, the air fryer has taken the culinary world by storm. More people than ever are turning to the air fryer as an alternative to their traditional oven. But as with any new kitchen gadget, there is a little confusion over the best way to use it and no more so than when it comes to cooking fish.

But if you’re like so many people avoiding cooking fish in the air fryer, if you’re unsure about timings or just overwhelmed by which fish to choose, then we’ve got you covered. In this blog we’ll lay out:  

• The benefits of cooking fish in the air fryer.
• Which fish is best in the air fryer.
• How to cook fish in the air fryer.
• How long to cook fish in the air fryer.
• And much more.

The benefits of air frying fish

If you’ve joined the air fryer fanatics club, just like we have, then you may already know the benefits of cooking fish in the air fryer but for those unfamiliar with how an air fryer works it can be surprising just how many advantages there are to air frying fish. For example:

• It’s healthy: Air frying fish can be healthier than many other options because it uses less oil, reducing the fat intake when it comes to eating.
• It’s quick: Air fryers tend to heat up quicker than traditional ovens and so can reduce the time it takes to cook your fish.
• Easy to clean: Air fryers are generally easier to clean, especially if you line your drawer with parchment or a similar material.
• Saves energy: Air fryers use less energy than conventional ovens meaning they’ll save you money on your bills.

Which fish is best for the air fryer?

You can cook any type of fish or seafood in your air fryer – cod, haddock, salmon, tuna, or shellfish like prawns and scallops, are ideal for air frying. If you’re looking for a fish fillet then we recommend getting it with the skin on as air frying is the perfect method for crisping up fish skin.

Remember, fish is always best sourced fresh and you should always choose based on what is available from your fishmonger. Also, pay close attention to where your fish is sourced – sustainable fishing practices are how we can all continue to enjoy the fruits of the sea for years to come.

Can you put raw fish in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Cooking raw fish in the air fryer is not only possible but is often the best way to achieve juicy, perfectly cooked results. You can even cook fish straight from frozen—just be sure to follow any recipe-specific instructions for timing and temperature.

To make cleanup even easier, line your air fryer basket with parchment paper or foil before cooking. And remember to thoroughly clean the air fryer after each use.

Time chart: air fryer cooking times

Use this chart to see how long to cook fish in an air fryer versus a traditional oven:

Top Tips for Cooking Fish in the Air Fryer

Avoid Overcrowding: Cooking too much at once can slow down the process and lead to uneven results. For larger portions, cook in batches.

Flip for Even Cooking: Turn your fish halfway through cooking, being careful with delicate fillets to prevent breaking.

Use Spray Oil: A light mist of spray oil ensures crispy textures and prevents sticking.

Wrap It Up: Wrapping fish in foil locks in moisture and flavours, making it ideal for saucy or marinated recipes.

Ready to Air Fry?

Now that you know how to cook fish in the air fryer, the possibilities are endless! From crispy salmon fillets to mouthwatering fish fingers, your air fryer can transform a simple weekday dinner into a delicious feast. So, why not give it a try and elevate your home cooking?