Crunchy Air Fryer Fish

two pieces of air fryer fish on a blue plate with parchment

Crispy and well-seasoned fish with a cornmeal crust for a southern crunch, this fried fish is crunchy and well-seasoned no deep-frying needed.

Course Entree

Cuisine American, soul food

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Servings

Calories 191kcal

Author Marisa Moore

Equipment

air fryer

Ingredients

1 lb. white fish fillets (not more than ½ inch thick)
1 large egg
½ cup yellow cornmeal
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon coarse salt
oil spray
lemon and parsley for garnish (Optional)

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer for at least 3 minutes to 400 F. Whisk the egg in a shallow pan. In another shallow pan, combine the cornmeal and spices thoroughly.
Pat the fish completely dry. Dip the fish fillets into the egg - allow the excess to drip back into the pan. Then press the fish into the cornmeal mixture until well coated on both sides.
Place the coated fish into the preheated air fryer basket. Spritz lightly with oil. Cook for 10 minutes – stopping midway to flip the fish to ensure even cooking. If you notice dry spots, this is the time to spritz with a bit more oil. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook 5-7 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Once done, squeeze lightly with lemon and sprinkle with parsley or top with hot sauce as desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Spice swap idea: Don't have all the spices? Swap in creole seasoning or old bay!

To make this recipe in a standard oven: Preheat oven to 475 F. Spray a shallow baking pan generously with oil spray. Place the cornmeal coated fish onto the baking pan. Bake 10 minutes on the middle rack. Serve hot.

Nutrition