21 Air Fryer Spring Fish & Seafood Recipes
Spring rolls in and suddenly I’m craving lighter meals—something fresh, quick, and won’t leave me feeling weighed down. Enter the air fryer and its underrated superpower: cooking fish and seafood in under 15 minutes without turning your kitchen into a grease-splattered crime scene.
Look, I get it. Fish can be intimidating. It’s delicate, it smells, and timing it perfectly feels like defusing a bomb. But here’s the thing about air fryers—they take all that anxiety and toss it out the window. The circulating heat cooks everything evenly, you get that crispy exterior without deep-frying, and cleanup is absurdly easy.
So if you’ve been sleeping on seafood because pan-frying feels like too much effort or you’re tired of dried-out baked fish, these 21 recipes are about to change your weeknight dinner game. We’re talking salmon, shrimp, scallops, white fish—all the good stuff, all ridiculously simple.
Why Air Fryer Fish Actually Works
Before we jump into recipes, let’s talk about why this method isn’t just hype. Traditional frying requires a vat of oil and constant attention. Baking in the oven? Sure, it’s hands-off, but you’re looking at 20-30 minutes and often mediocre results.
Air fryers use rapid air circulation—basically a tiny convection oven on steroids. The hot air surrounds your fish from all angles, creating that coveted crispy texture without submerging it in oil. You get the crunch without the calories, and everything cooks in a fraction of the time.
Here’s what sold me: consistency. Once you nail down the timing for your air fryer model (usually 8-12 minutes at 375-400°F for most fish), you can replicate perfect results every single time. No more guessing, no more overcooked rubber, no more raw centers.
The Spring Advantage: Seasonal Fish & Why It Matters
Spring brings some seriously good seafood options. Fish markets get stocked with fresh catches, and prices tend to drop on certain varieties. We’re talking wild-caught salmon coming back into season, halibut at its peak, and shrimp harvests ramping up.
Choosing seasonal fish isn’t just about flavor—though that’s a big part of it. According to Mayo Clinic, fish high in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon and mackerel can support heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering triglyceride levels. Spring catches are often at their nutritional peak, giving you more bang for your buck health-wise.
Plus, let’s be honest—eating with the seasons just feels right. Light, fresh seafood pairs perfectly with spring produce like asparagus, peas, and new potatoes. Your air fryer can handle it all in one go.
What Makes Spring Fish Different
Spring fish tend to be leaner and milder compared to their winter counterparts. Cod, halibut, and tilapia are perfect blank canvases for herbs and citrus—those bright, zippy flavors that scream springtime. Fatty fish like salmon are coming off their spawning season, meaning they’re plump and full of those healthy omega-3s we keep hearing about.
This is also prime time for shellfish. Shrimp, scallops, and even lobster tails cook beautifully in the air fryer. And if you’re thinking shellfish is fancy or complicated, I’m here to tell you it’s not. These recipes prove it.
Speaking of easy wins, if you’re looking for more simple air fryer inspiration beyond seafood, you might love these easiest air fryer dinners ready in 10 minutes. They’re all about minimal effort, maximum flavor.
Essential Tips Before You Start
Real talk: air fryer fish is foolproof, but there are a few tricks that separate good results from great ones. I learned these the hard way, so you don’t have to.
Temperature & Timing Guidelines
For white fish (cod, tilapia, halibut): 375°F for 8-10 minutes. These are delicate, so lower heat prevents them from drying out.
For salmon and fatty fish: 390-400°F for 10-12 minutes. The higher fat content can handle—and benefits from—more aggressive heat.
For shellfish (shrimp, scallops): 400°F for 6-8 minutes. Quick and hot is the move here.
Thickness matters more than type, honestly. A thick salmon steak needs more time than a thin tilapia fillet, regardless of the species. When in doubt, start checking at the lower end of the time range and add minutes as needed.
The Right Tools Make It Easier
You don’t need much, but having the right setup helps. I use this fish spatula with the thin, flexible edge to flip fillets without mangling them. It’s one of those tools that seems unnecessary until you try it, then you wonder how you ever lived without it.
For breaded fish, I keep these parchment liners on hand. They’re pre-cut to fit most air fryer baskets, prevent sticking, and make cleanup legitimately enjoyable (or at least tolerable).
And if you’re doing a lot of fish, an instant-read thermometer takes the guesswork out of doneness. Fish should hit 145°F internally, but honestly, if it flakes easily with a fork, you’re golden.
Recipe Collection: 21 Ways to Cook Seafood This Spring
Alright, let’s get into the good stuff. These recipes range from stupid-simple to slightly more involved (but still weeknight-friendly). I’ve organized them loosely by protein type, but feel free to jump around.
1. Classic Lemon Herb Salmon
This is where you start if you’re new to air fryer fish. Salmon fillets, olive oil, lemon, salt, pepper, and whatever herbs you have lying around. Eight minutes at 390°F and you’ve got dinner. Get Full Recipe
The key is not overthinking it. Salmon is fatty enough that it stays moist even if you slightly overcook it, making it incredibly forgiving for beginners.
2. Blackened Tilapia
Cajun seasoning, a light spray of oil, and 9 minutes at 375°F. That’s the entire recipe. If you like spice and want something with more personality than plain fish, this is your move.
Tilapia gets a bad rap for being boring, but with the right seasoning, it’s actually a perfect weeknight protein. Plus it’s usually the cheapest fish at the store.
3. Garlic Butter Shrimp
Toss shrimp in melted butter, minced garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Six minutes at 400°F. I dare you to find an easier protein prep. Get Full Recipe
Serve these over rice, toss them with pasta, or eat them straight from the basket while standing at the counter. No judgment here.
4. Coconut-Crusted Cod
Dredge cod in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat in shredded coconut mixed with panko. Ten minutes at 375°F gives you a crispy, tropical-ish coating that makes plain cod interesting.
Kids love this one, FYI. The coconut adds just enough sweetness to balance the mild fish flavor without making it dessert-like.
5. Teriyaki Glazed Salmon
Brush salmon with teriyaki sauce (store-bought is fine, no need to go homemade unless you’re feeling ambitious). Cook for 10 minutes at 390°F, brushing with more sauce halfway through. The sugars caramelize beautifully in the air fryer.
Pair this with air fryer vegetables that actually taste good for a complete meal that comes together in about 15 minutes total.
6. Old Bay Shrimp Boil (Air Fryer Style)
Toss shrimp, mini potatoes, and corn pieces in Old Bay seasoning and a bit of oil. Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. It’s like a shrimp boil without the giant pot of boiling water.
This is my go-to when I want something that feels like an event but requires minimal effort. Serve it on a big platter with lemon wedges and call it a feast.
7. Lemon Pepper Halibut
Halibut is meatier than most white fish, which means it holds up incredibly well in the air fryer. Season with lemon pepper (heavy on both), drizzle with olive oil, and cook for 11 minutes at 380°F. Get Full Recipe
8. Honey Sriracha Salmon Bites
Cut salmon into one-inch cubes, toss in a honey-sriracha glaze, and cook for 8 minutes at 400°F. These are addictive. Like, “I accidentally ate all of them before plating” addictive.
For more bite-sized air fryer ideas, check out these salmon bites that are quick and healthy. Perfect for meal prep or snacking.
9. Crispy Panko Cod
Standard breading procedure: flour, egg, panko. Spray generously with oil and cook at 390°F for 10 minutes. The air fryer gets the panko so crispy it rivals actual fried fish.
Use this panko variety with extra-large flakes if you can find it. The bigger pieces create more texture and crunch.
10. Cilantro Lime Mahi Mahi
Mahi mahi has a slightly firmer texture that works great with bold flavors. Marinate in lime juice, cilantro, and garlic for 15 minutes, then air fry at 385°F for 9 minutes.
11. Scallops with Brown Butter
Pat scallops dry (critical step), season with salt and pepper, and cook at 400°F for 7 minutes. Meanwhile, brown some butter on the stovetop and drizzle it over the finished scallops. Fancy restaurant vibes, zero actual effort.
I use these large sea scallops when they’re on sale. They’re pricey, but the air fryer makes them feel like a special occasion meal.
12. Bang Bang Shrimp
The viral recipe everybody loves. Bread shrimp, air fry until crispy, then toss in a sauce made from mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. It’s sticky, spicy, and dangerously good. Get Full Recipe
13. Dijon Maple Salmon
Mix Dijon mustard with maple syrup (equal parts), brush over salmon, and cook at 390°F for 10 minutes. The combo sounds weird but the tangy-sweet balance is perfect.
14. Herb-Crusted Trout
Whole trout or trout fillets work here. Mix fresh herbs (parsley, dill, thyme) with breadcrumbs, press onto the fish, and air fry at 375°F for 12 minutes. Trout’s natural richness pairs beautifully with the herby crust.
15. Cajun Salmon with Avocado Salsa
Coat salmon in Cajun spices, air fry for 10 minutes at 390°F, then top with fresh avocado salsa (diced avocado, tomato, red onion, lime juice). It’s got everything—protein, healthy fats, fresh vegetables.
This pairs amazingly with high-protein air fryer bowls if you want to bulk it up into a full meal.
16. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Skewers
Thread shrimp onto skewers (if your air fryer basket allows), brush with lemon-garlic butter, and cook at 400°F for 6 minutes. The skewers make them easy to flip and give you that grilled vibe without firing up the actual grill.
17. Parmesan-Crusted Flounder
Mix grated Parmesan with panko and Italian seasoning. Press onto flounder fillets and air fry at 380°F for 9 minutes. The Parmesan adds a salty, umami punch that elevates mild white fish.
18. Spicy Tuna Steaks
Tuna is one of those fish you want to keep rare-to-medium, so adjust your timing accordingly. Coat in a spicy rub (chili powder, paprika, cayenne), then cook at 400°F for just 5-6 minutes depending on thickness. The outside gets a nice crust while the inside stays pink.
19. Mediterranean Cod with Olives and Tomatoes
Place cod in the air fryer, top with cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, capers, and a drizzle of olive oil. Cook everything together at 375°F for 11 minutes. The tomatoes burst and create this natural sauce that’s ridiculously good. Get Full Recipe
20. Sesame-Crusted Ahi Tuna
Coat tuna steaks in sesame seeds, sear in the air fryer at 400°F for 4-5 minutes. Slice thin and serve over salad or rice. It’s basically deconstructed poke bowl energy.
21. Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter
Yes, lobster tails in an air fryer. Split them lengthwise, brush with garlic butter, and cook at 380°F for 8 minutes. They come out tender and restaurant-quality. If you’ve never tried lobster at home because it seems intimidating, this method will change your mind.
Looking for more quick air fryer dinner inspiration? These simple air fryer lunches for busy days translate perfectly to dinner too.
Kitchen Tools That Make Spring Seafood Easier
After making these recipes on repeat, here are the tools and resources that actually earn their counter space:
Takes the guesswork out of fish doneness. Fish should hit 145°F, but with this, you know for sure. I clip mine to my apron so it’s always within reach.
Stop buying disposable parchment. These silicone ones are heat-safe, dishwasher-friendly, and last forever. They catch drips and prevent sticking without the waste.
The thin, flexible edge slides under delicate fillets without tearing them. The slots let oil drain off. It’s the one spatula I reach for every time.
This digital app has timing guides for every fish type and sends you weekly seasonal recipe ideas. Worth the few bucks a month if you cook seafood regularly.
I keep this laminated chart on my fridge. Quick reference for temps and times for every protein and veggie. Saves me from Googling mid-cook.
Step-by-step video tutorials covering everything from shrimp to whole fish. The troubleshooting section alone was worth the price for me.
Making It a Complete Meal
Fish cooks fast, which means you need sides that keep pace. The beauty of spring is that vegetables are at their peak and many of them cook in roughly the same time as your seafood.
Asparagus, snap peas, and green beans can go straight into the air fryer alongside your fish. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then add them to the basket during the last 5-6 minutes of cooking. Everything finishes together, one basket, one cleanup.
For something heartier, baby potatoes cut in half cook in about 15 minutes at 400°F. Start them first, then add your fish when the potatoes have 10 minutes left. The timing works out perfectly.
Or if you want to keep things really simple, serve your fish over a bed of mixed greens with a quick vinaigrette. The warm fish wilts the greens slightly, and you’ve got a complete meal in a bowl.
For those nights when you need complete meal inspiration beyond just fish, these air fryer meal prep ideas for the week show you how to batch cook proteins and sides together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve messed up air fryer fish enough times to know exactly what not to do. Here’s what I learned the hard way.
Overcrowding the Basket
I get it—you want to cook everything at once. But cramming too much fish into the basket blocks airflow, which means soggy, unevenly cooked results. Give each piece space. Cook in batches if needed. The second batch only takes another 10 minutes.
Skipping the Oil
Even though it’s an “air fryer,” a light coating of oil makes a massive difference in browning and crisping. I use this oil sprayer bottle to mist fish with olive or avocado oil. Way more control than aerosol spray cans.
Not Preheating
Most air fryers heat up in 3-5 minutes. Skipping this step means your cook times will be off and your crust won’t develop properly. Just turn it on while you’re prepping your fish and you’re good to go.
Using Delicate Marinades
Anything with a lot of sugar or honey will burn in the high heat of an air fryer if you’re not careful. Save sweet glazes for brushing on halfway through or after cooking. The American Heart Association notes that grilled or baked fish preparations are ideal for maximizing the health benefits of omega-3s while avoiding unnecessary fats.
Why Spring Is Prime Seafood Season
There’s something about spring that makes me crave lighter proteins. After months of heavy winter comfort food, my body naturally gravitates toward fish and vegetables.
But beyond the psychological shift, spring is legitimately one of the best times to buy seafood. Wild-caught salmon starts appearing at reasonable prices. Halibut is coming into season. Even farmed options like tilapia and catfish are at their freshest.
From a nutritional standpoint, seafood in spring tends to have higher omega-3 content after winter feeding patterns. These fatty acids are crucial for brain function and reducing inflammation, according to Cleveland Clinic. Spring catches give you those benefits at peak levels.
Plus, fish pairs beautifully with all the produce hitting farmers’ markets right now—peas, asparagus, radishes, new potatoes. Your air fryer can handle all of it, making spring the perfect time to experiment with these recipes.
Speaking of experimenting with different proteins, if you ever need to switch things up, these 5-ingredient air fryer breakfast ideas prove that simple can be incredibly satisfying across all meal types.
Adapting Recipes to Your Preferences
Here’s what I love about air fryer fish—the basic method stays the same regardless of the recipe. Once you understand the foundation (temperature, timing, don’t overcrowd), you can riff endlessly.
Don’t like spicy food? Skip the Cajun seasoning and use Italian herbs instead. Hate cilantro? Use parsley. Allergic to shellfish? Every shrimp recipe here works with cubed white fish or salmon.
The recipes I’ve listed are starting points, not commandments. Swap out the proteins, change up the seasonings, adjust cooking times based on thickness. The air fryer is forgiving enough that you have a lot of room to experiment.
For those looking to keep things really simple with minimal ingredients, these 5-ingredient air fryer meals under 400 calories show just how good simple can be.
Storage and Meal Prep Considerations
Cooked fish keeps in the fridge for about 2-3 days max. It won’t be as crispy when reheated, but the flavor holds up fine. Reheat at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to warm through without overcooking.
For meal prep, I actually prefer cooking fish fresh rather than reheating. Since it only takes 10 minutes, I’ll prep all my ingredients ahead of time (marinades in containers, fish portions separated) and then just cook it fresh each night.
Shrimp and scallops freeze beautifully raw. Buy them in bulk when they’re on sale, portion into zip-top bags, and defrost as needed. From frozen to table in under 30 minutes including defrost time.
If you’re big on batch cooking, marinated raw fish can stay in the fridge for 24 hours before cooking. Just don’t go longer than that—acidic marinades will start to “cook” the fish and affect texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you cook frozen fish directly in the air fryer?
Absolutely. Add 3-5 minutes to your normal cooking time and skip the flipping step if possible to avoid breaking the fillet. The results aren’t quite as crispy as thawed fish, but they’re still solid for a weeknight meal. Just make sure frozen fillets aren’t clumped together—separate them before cooking.
What’s the best temperature for cooking fish in an air fryer?
Most fish does best between 375-400°F. Delicate white fish like tilapia and cod prefer the lower end (375°F) to prevent drying out, while fatty fish like salmon and shellfish can handle 390-400°F. When in doubt, start at 380°F and adjust from there based on your results.
How do I prevent fish from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Two simple tricks: first, lightly spray or brush your basket with oil before adding the fish. Second, let the fish cook for at least half the time before trying to flip or move it—the crust needs time to form and naturally release from the basket. Parchment liners work too if you’re consistently having sticking issues.
Do I need to flip fish halfway through air frying?
It depends on your air fryer model. Some circulate air so efficiently that flipping isn’t necessary. Check your manual’s recommendations. Generally, thicker cuts benefit from flipping while thin fillets can cook through without it. I usually flip anything over 1 inch thick and leave thinner pieces alone.
How can I tell when fish is done without a thermometer?
Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the center is opaque (not translucent). For salmon, some people prefer it slightly translucent in the center, which is fine if you’re using high-quality, sushi-grade fish. When pressed gently with a fork, cooked fish should separate into natural segments rather than squish together.
Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Spring Seafood
If you’ve been hesitant about cooking fish at home, spring is honestly the perfect time to start. The air fryer removes most of the intimidation factor—no splattering oil, no lingering smells, no complicated techniques. Just season, cook, eat.
These 21 recipes barely scratch the surface of what’s possible. Once you nail down the basics, you’ll start experimenting with your own flavor combinations and protein variations. The method is simple enough that it becomes second nature after a few tries.
And here’s the thing nobody tells you about cooking fish regularly—you’ll start feeling noticeably better. More energy, better skin, improved focus. It’s not magic; it’s just the omega-3s and lean protein doing their job. But it feels like magic when you’re used to heavier meals.
So grab whatever fish looks good at the market this week, set your air fryer to 380°F, and see what happens. Worst case scenario, you have dinner ready in 12 minutes. Best case? You discover your new favorite weeknight meal.
For even more air fryer versatility across every meal type, check out these 30 air fryer recipes everyone should know. They cover everything from breakfast to dessert and prove this appliance is worth the counter space.
