25 Air Fryer Fish and Seafood Recipes That Actually Taste Amazing
Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, tired of your kitchen smelling like a seafood shack for three days, or just want dinner ready in under 20 minutes, these 25 air fryer fish and seafood recipes are going to change your weeknight game. No fancy culinary degree required—just you, your trusty air fryer, and some seriously delicious results.
📸 Image Prompt
Scene: Overhead shot of a rustic wooden table with a beautiful platter of golden-brown air-fried fish fillets and shrimp, garnished with fresh lemon wedges and herbs (parsley and dill). The seafood has a gorgeous crispy texture visible in the lighting. Surrounding the main platter: small bowls of tartar sauce and cocktail sauce, a scattered arrangement of cherry tomatoes, and a light linen napkin. Natural daylight streaming from the left creates soft shadows. Color palette: warm golds, fresh greens, bright yellows from lemons, and the natural white-pink tones of the seafood. Pinterest-worthy food styling with a cozy, approachable kitchen atmosphere.
Why Your Air Fryer Is Perfect for Seafood
Here’s the thing about cooking fish: timing is everything. Overcook it by two minutes and you’re eating fish-flavored cardboard. Undercook it and, well, nobody wants that either. The air fryer solves this problem by circulating superheated air around your food, creating an even cook that’s nearly impossible to mess up.
But beyond the foolproof factor, there’s actual science backing this up. According to the American Heart Association, fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. The beauty of air frying? You’re getting all those benefits without drowning your fish in added oils and fats.
Traditional deep frying can slash the nutritional value of your seafood and add unnecessary calories. Research shows that air frying can cut calories by up to 80% compared to deep frying, since the food doesn’t absorb nearly as much fat. For someone trying to keep things healthy without sacrificing flavor, that’s kind of a big deal.
Plus, let’s be honest—cleaning up after deep frying is the worst. Hot oil everywhere, that lingering smell, the whole production. Air frying gives you the crispy texture you crave with about 1/10th the cleanup hassle.
The Best Fish for Air Frying
Not all fish are created equal when it comes to the air fryer. You want something that can handle the heat without falling apart or drying out faster than your motivation on a Monday morning.
Firm White Fish Are Your Best Friends
Cod, haddock, and halibut are absolute rockstars in the air fryer. They’ve got enough structure to hold together during cooking, and their mild flavor makes them perfect canvases for whatever seasonings you’re feeling that day. I’ve probably made air-fried cod with lemon pepper at least two dozen times this year because it’s that reliable.
Tilapia is another go-to, especially if you’re feeding picky eaters. It’s affordable, widely available, and cooks in about 10 minutes. Just season it with some garlic powder and paprika, and boom—dinner that doesn’t taste like you phoned it in.
Salmon: The Omega-3 Powerhouse
If you’re looking to maximize those health benefits, salmon is where it’s at. The National Institutes of Health recommends eating fish rich in omega-3s like salmon regularly for heart health and brain function. Air-fried salmon comes out with a perfect caramelized exterior while staying moist inside—something I could never quite nail in a regular oven.
Speaking of salmon, if you’re into quick, protein-packed meals, you absolutely need to try these air fryer salmon bites. They’re ridiculously easy and perfect for meal prep.
Shrimp: The Speed Demon
Shrimp in the air fryer is basically cheating. They cook in 5-7 minutes and turn out perfectly every single time. Whether you’re doing classic garlic butter shrimp, spicy Cajun-style, or coconut-crusted, shrimp are foolproof. Just don’t walk away and forget about them, because they go from perfect to rubber in about 90 seconds.
Essential Prep Tips Before You Start
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about the basics that’ll make or break your air fryer seafood game. Trust me, these little details matter more than you’d think.
Temperature and Timing Sweet Spots
Most fish cooks beautifully at 375-400°F. Thicker cuts like salmon fillets can handle the higher end, while delicate fish like sole should stick to 375°F. Shrimp and scallops are speed demons that only need 5-8 minutes, while thicker fish fillets need 10-12 minutes.
The golden rule? Check for doneness at the minimum time and add more if needed. You can always cook it longer, but you can’t uncook rubbery fish. I learned that lesson the hard way with a $20 piece of halibut.
Seasoning Like You Mean It
Here’s where people often drop the ball. Fish has a delicate flavor that can easily get lost if you’re timid with seasonings. Don’t be afraid to be generous with your spice rubs, herbs, and citrus. Some of my favorite combos include:
- Classic: Lemon, garlic, parsley, and a good crack of black pepper
- Spicy: Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne
- Asian-inspired: Soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and scallions
- Mediterranean: Oregano, thyme, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives
For a light coating that gets extra crispy, I use panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of olive oil spray. It creates this amazing crunch without the greasiness of traditional breading.
25 Air Fryer Fish and Seafood Recipes
1. Classic Beer-Battered Cod
Start with the classic. A light beer batter (I’m talking about the bubbles, not getting your fish drunk) creates an incredibly crispy coating. Season your batter with garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of cayenne for heat. Cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Get Full Recipe.
2. Cajun Blackened Salmon
This one’s got a kick. Coat salmon fillets in a mixture of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. The high heat of the air fryer creates that signature blackened crust without setting off your smoke alarm. If you’re into high-protein meals that actually taste good, check out these 5-ingredient high-protein air fryer bowls for more inspiration.
3. Lemon Pepper Tilapia
Sometimes simple is best. Tilapia with lemon pepper seasoning, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a pat of butter on top. Ready in 8 minutes. This is my go-to when I forgot to plan dinner and need something fast that won’t embarrass me.
4. Coconut Shrimp
Roll shrimp in flour, then egg, then a mixture of panko and shredded coconut. Air fry at 375°F for 6-8 minutes. Serve with a spicy-sweet chili sauce for dipping. Pro tip: use unsweetened coconut flakes for less sugar and more coconut flavor.
5. Garlic Butter Scallops
Pat scallops dry (seriously, bone dry), season with salt and pepper, and cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes. Toss in melted garlic butter right before serving. They’ll have this gorgeous golden sear that rivals any restaurant version.
6. Honey Sriracha Salmon
Sweet, spicy, and sticky—this glaze is addictive. Mix honey, sriracha, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Brush on salmon and cook at 380°F for 10 minutes. The sugars in the honey caramelize beautifully without burning.
7. Parmesan-Crusted Halibut
Mix grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, and Italian herbs. Press onto halibut fillets and spray lightly with oil. Cook at 375°F for 12 minutes. The cheese forms this incredible golden crust that’s equal parts crispy and savory.
8. Old Bay Shrimp Skewers
Thread shrimp onto skewers (soak wooden ones in water first), toss in Old Bay seasoning and a little oil. Cook at 400°F for 6 minutes. Perfect for summer gatherings or when you want to pretend you’re at a backyard seafood boil.
9. Teriyaki Cod
Marinate cod in teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes. Air fry at 375°F for 10 minutes. The sauce gets this gorgeous glaze that’s sweet, salty, and slightly charred in the best way possible.
10. Crispy Fish Tacos
Season white fish with cumin, chili powder, and lime juice. Cook at 400°F until flaky and golden. Serve in warm tortillas with cabbage slaw and a creamy cilantro-lime sauce. This is the recipe that converted my “I don’t like fish” friends.
If you’re on a taco kick, you’ll also love these beginner-friendly air fryer meals that include several taco variations.
11. Maple Mustard Salmon
Whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Brush on salmon fillets and cook at 380°F for 11 minutes. The sweet-tangy combo is sophisticated enough for company but easy enough for Tuesday.
12. Lemon Herb Trout
Stuff whole trout with lemon slices, fresh dill, and parsley. Season the outside with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Cook at 375°F for 15 minutes. It’s one of those dishes that looks way more impressive than the effort required.
13. Bang Bang Shrimp
Coat shrimp in a light tempura batter and air fry until crispy. Toss in a sauce made from mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. This restaurant favorite is shockingly easy to make at home and costs a fraction of the price.
14. Cajun Catfish
Season catfish fillets heavily with Cajun spices. Cook at 390°F for 10 minutes. The high heat creates that signature charred crust while the inside stays moist and flaky. Serve with dirty rice for the full Southern experience.
15. Mediterranean Sea Bass
Top sea bass with cherry tomatoes, olives, capers, and a drizzle of olive oil. Cook at 375°F for 12-14 minutes. It’s light, fresh, and makes you feel like you’re dining seaside in Greece instead of standing in your kitchen in sweatpants.
16. Spicy Tuna Steaks
Sear tuna steaks at 400°F for just 3-4 minutes per side if you like them rare (which you should—overcooked tuna is a crime). Season with a spicy rub of chili flakes, sesame seeds, and black pepper.
17. Panko-Crusted Mahi Mahi
Press panko breadcrumbs onto mahi mahi fillets. Spray with cooking oil spray and cook at 380°F for 10 minutes. The panko gets golden and crunchy while the fish stays tender. It’s the perfect texture contrast.
18. Garlic Parmesan Lobster Tails
Butterfly lobster tails, brush with garlic butter, and sprinkle with parmesan. Cook at 380°F for 8-10 minutes. Yes, lobster in an air fryer sounds fancy, but it’s actually one of the easiest seafood dishes you can make.
19. Blackened Shrimp Po’ Boy
Season shrimp with blackening spices and cook until crispy. Pile onto toasted baguettes with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and remoulade sauce. It’s messy, delicious, and worth every napkin you’ll go through.
20. Pesto Halibut
Spread basil pesto on halibut fillets and top with cherry tomatoes. Cook at 375°F for 12 minutes. The pesto keeps the fish incredibly moist while adding tons of flavor. I use homemade pesto when I’m feeling ambitious, but store-bought works perfectly fine.
Looking for more ways to incorporate veggies with your seafood? These air fryer veggie recipes make perfect sides.
21. Sesame Ginger Salmon
Marinate salmon in soy sauce, sesame oil, fresh ginger, and a touch of honey. Air fry at 380°F for 10 minutes. Top with sesame seeds and sliced scallions. It’s got that restaurant-quality Asian fusion vibe without the restaurant prices.
22. Crispy Calamari
Toss calamari rings in seasoned flour, then buttermilk, then panko breadcrumbs. Cook at 400°F for 7-8 minutes, shaking halfway. Serve with marinara or garlic aioli for dipping. Way less greasy than the deep-fried version but just as addictive.
23. Herb-Crusted Cod
Mix fresh herbs (basil, parsley, thyme) with breadcrumbs and press onto cod fillets. Cook at 375°F for 10 minutes. The herbs stay vibrant and fresh-tasting instead of burning like they sometimes do in the oven.
24. Sweet Chili Glazed Salmon
Brush salmon with sweet chili sauce before and during cooking. Air fry at 380°F for 10-12 minutes. The glaze caramelizes into this sticky, sweet, slightly spicy coating that’ll have you licking the plate. Not that I’ve done that. Multiple times.
25. Classic Fish and Chips
Save the best for last. Beer-battered fish with thick-cut fries, all in the air fryer. Cook the fish at 400°F for 10 minutes, the chips for 20 minutes (shaking every 5 minutes). Serve with malt vinegar and tartar sauce for the full British pub experience at home.
For those days when you need dinner ready yesterday, don’t miss these 10-minute air fryer dinners—several feature seafood options.
Kitchen Tools That Make Air Fryer Seafood Easier
After cooking hundreds of seafood meals in my air fryer, I’ve learned that having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are the essentials I reach for constantly:
Physical Products:
1. Digital Instant-Read Thermometer – The single best investment for perfect seafood every time. Fish should hit 145°F internally, and guessing is how you end up with dry, overcooked disasters. This one gives you a reading in 2 seconds.
2. Silicone Air Fryer Liners – These reusable liners are game-changers for cleanup, especially with flaky fish that likes to stick. They’re perforated so air still circulates, and you can just toss them in the dishwasher after.
3. Oil Mister Spray Bottle – Ditch the aerosol cans. Fill this with your own olive oil or avocado oil for a light, even coating on your seafood. You’ll use way less oil and it tastes better too.
Digital Resources:
1. Air Fryer Cooking Times Chart PDF – A downloadable quick-reference guide for every type of seafood, including temperature and timing. I keep mine printed and stuck to my fridge because I’m constantly checking it.
2. The Complete Air Fryer Seafood eBook – Goes way deeper than this article with 100+ recipes, troubleshooting guides, and seasoning blend recipes. Worth it if you’re serious about mastering air fryer seafood.
3. Meal Prep Template for Seafood Bowls – Printable weekly planning sheets specifically designed for batch-cooking seafood. Makes it stupidly easy to prep five days of lunches in one afternoon.
None of these are absolutely required, but they’ll save you time, money, and frustration. The thermometer especially—that’s the one I’d grab first if my kitchen caught fire.
Common Air Fryer Seafood Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Even with foolproof recipes, there are a few traps people fall into. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own trial and error:
Overcrowding the Basket
I know you’re hungry and want to cook everything at once, but cramming too much seafood in the basket blocks air circulation. The result? Steamed, soggy fish instead of crispy perfection. Cook in batches if you need to—your patience will be rewarded.
Skipping the Preheat
Would you throw a steak on a cold grill? Then don’t skip preheating your air fryer. Most models need 3-5 minutes to get up to temperature. This ensures even cooking from the moment your seafood goes in.
Not Checking for Doneness
Cooking times are guidelines, not gospel. Your air fryer model, the thickness of your fish, whether you remembered to preheat—all of these factors affect timing. Always check at the minimum recommended time and adjust from there.
Using Too Much Breading
A thick layer of breading might seem like a good idea, but it can actually prevent the fish from cooking through properly. Keep your coating thin and even for the best texture and taste.
If you want to expand your air fryer repertoire beyond seafood, these 5-ingredient chicken recipes use the same techniques and are equally foolproof.
Pairing Your Seafood with Perfect Sides
Great seafood deserves great sides, and luckily, you can often cook them right in the air fryer alongside your fish. Some of my favorite pairings include:
For white fish: Air-fried asparagus with lemon, roasted cherry tomatoes, or a simple arugula salad with vinaigrette. The lightness complements delicate fish without overwhelming it.
For salmon: Roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potato wedges, or quinoa pilaf. Salmon can handle heartier sides since it’s got such a robust flavor on its own.
For shrimp: Honestly, shrimp goes with everything. But I especially love pairing it with cilantro-lime rice, corn on the cob, or a fresh pineapple salsa for a tropical vibe.
You can cook most vegetables in the air fryer at 375°F for 10-15 minutes. Toss them with oil, salt, and pepper, give them a shake halfway through, and you’ve got a complete meal with minimal cleanup. Check out these simple air fryer sides for more ideas.
Making It Work for Meal Prep
Here’s something that changed my weekly routine: air fryer seafood is incredible for meal prep. I know, I know—reheated fish can be sketchy. But if you do it right, it stays moist and delicious all week.
The trick is to slightly undercook your seafood if you’re planning to reheat it. Cook it to about 140°F instead of 145°F. When you reheat it later in the air fryer (just 3-4 minutes at 350°F), it’ll come up to the perfect temperature without drying out.
I typically prep salmon bowls on Sunday: air-fried salmon, roasted vegetables, and quinoa portioned into containers. They last 4-5 days in the fridge and reheat beautifully. Way better than sad desk salads, and they actually keep me full until dinner.
For more meal prep strategies that don’t require a culinary degree, dive into these weekly meal prep ideas specifically designed for the air fryer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you cook frozen fish in an air fryer?
Absolutely, and it’s actually easier than thawing. Just add 3-5 minutes to the cooking time and start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark. The fish will come out just as good as fresh, and you don’t have to remember to defrost it the night before. Just pat off any ice crystals before seasoning.
Do I need to flip fish in the air fryer?
For most fillets under an inch thick, you don’t need to flip them—the circulating air cooks both sides evenly. Thicker cuts (over 1 inch) or whole fish benefit from a flip halfway through. Shrimp and scallops should definitely get flipped for even browning on both sides.
How do I prevent fish from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Three simple fixes: First, preheat your air fryer so the food starts cooking immediately on contact. Second, use a light spray of oil on both the basket and the fish itself. Third, let the fish cook undisturbed for the first few minutes—it’ll release naturally once it develops a crust. Trying to move it too early guarantees sticking.
What temperature should I cook fish in the air fryer?
Most fish cooks perfectly at 375-400°F. Delicate white fish like sole and tilapia do best at 375°F, while heartier fish like salmon and tuna can handle 400°F. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for safety, but honestly, I pull salmon at 140°F because it continues cooking from residual heat and I prefer it slightly medium.
Can I use foil or parchment paper in the air fryer with fish?
Yes, but with caveats. Parchment paper made specifically for air fryers (with holes) works great and helps with cleanup. Regular foil is fine but can block airflow if you cover the entire basket—use it sparingly. Never use wax paper (fire hazard) or regular parchment paper without holes, as it can blow around and potentially touch the heating element.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Air Fryer Seafood Tonight
I’ll be straight with you—when I first got an air fryer, I thought it was just going to be another kitchen gadget that would collect dust after two weeks. But it’s genuinely changed how I cook, especially seafood. The combination of speed, crispy results, and minimal cleanup is tough to beat when you’re juggling work, life, and trying to eat something that isn’t takeout.
These 25 recipes are just the starting point. Once you get comfortable with the basics, you’ll find yourself experimenting with different seasonings, trying new types of fish, and maybe even impressing yourself with how restaurant-quality your weeknight dinners look. The beauty of air frying is that the learning curve is basically nonexistent—if you can season food and set a timer, you can nail these recipes.
Start with something simple like lemon pepper tilapia or garlic shrimp. Get a feel for how your specific air fryer cooks. Then branch out to the more adventurous recipes like coconut shrimp or blackened salmon. Before you know it, you’ll be that person sharing air fryer recipes with your friends (guilty as charged).
The best part? You’re getting all the nutritional benefits of seafood—those omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and brain health—without the excess oil and calories. You’re essentially eating healthier by default, which is the kind of adulting I can get behind.
So dust off that air fryer, grab some fish from the store, and give it a shot. Worst case scenario, you’ve got dinner in 15 minutes. Best case? You discover your new favorite way to cook seafood and never look back. Either way, you’re winning.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a date with some honey sriracha salmon and absolutely zero regrets.
