Best 8 Air Fryers for Fish According to 8 Points in 2023

Air frying is one of the easiest and quickest ways to cook fish. It allows you to make some tastier and healthier fish recipes without ever having to use too much oil. But you first need to find the best air fryer for fish to enjoy these and other benefits.

Any air fryer can cook fish, but the best ones will allow you to cook it at the right temperature. They also help you contain the fish odor. The air fryer should also be large enough to fit whole fish. Or at least large fillet cuts if you prefer to cook your fish in large chunks.

Choosing the right air fryer for fish can be a little hectic. There are just too many options. But we have already done the hard work for you. We asked 37 air fryer users from our Facebook forum to share their experiences with air frying fish. We have used this information, plus our extra research, to bring you a roundup of the best air fryer for fish.

First, let’s check the best 8 air fryers for the fish list, then we will show you a detailed guide about what to concern when choosing these air fryers, you can also get some delicious fish recipes at last.

Best 8 Air Fryers for Fish

Air FryerCore FeaturesRanking
COSORI Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo 58QT Max Xl Large CookerCustomizable & savable cooking functions
AdaptIQ Technology
1700W heating element
Best for custom cooking

Check the Price
Ninja-AF161-Max-XL-Air-FryerMax crisp technology
Ceramic coated basket
30% faster cooking
Best for crisping fish

Check the Price
NUWAVE Brio 8-Qt Air FryerIntegrated smart thermometer
100 presets plus
Wide temperature range
Best for cooking frozen fish

Check the Price
Ultrean Air Fryer XL 6 Quart 8-in-1 Electric Hot Air Fryer Oven Oilless CookerPreset for cooking fish
LED touch control panel
Easy-to-clean material 
Best for cooking fish fillet

Check the Price
GoWISE USA GW44800-O Deluxe 12.7-Quarts 15-in-1 Electric Air Fryer Oven with Rotisserie and DehydratorLarge 12.7-quart capacity
Versatile with 15 functions
Complete accessories
Best for a large family

Check the Price
CHEFMAN Large Air Fryer Max XL 8 QtCooks with 98% less fat
LED shake reminder
Spacious basket
Best for healthy cooking

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Instant-Vortex-Plus-Air-Fryer-OvenNo preheat required
EvenCrisp technology
Customizable programs
Best for speed cooking

Check the Price
Ninja-SP101-Digital-flip-up-Air-Fry-Countertop-toaster-OvenDigital crisp technology
60% faster cooking
Easy clean design
Best for roasting fish

Check the Price

1. Cosori Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo 

COSORI Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo 58QT Max Xl Large Cooker

The Cosori Pro II Air Fryer Oven Combo is perfect if you want something programmable. You can easily fine-tune the air fryer to suit all your favorite fish recipes. The air fryer also cooks faster than most other models.

Pros

  • Does not take up much counter space
  • Heats up well and cooks super fast
  • Includes an actual on/off button
  • Cleanup is a breeze

Cons

  • Housing is not scratch resistant
  • Can be a little loud

Key Features and Benefits

air fryer fish

The Cosori Pro II is built to ensure you have full control over your cooking. The air fryer has 13 customizable and savable functions. You can customize them to suit your favorite fish dish’s cooking time/temperature.

The 1700-watt air fryer heats up fast and will ensure you cook fast and evenly. It uses AdaptIQ Technology to heat food from all directions. It hence ensures food cooks evenly and gets crispier.

Operating the appliance should also be hassle-free. It has an optimized control panel that is super easy to use. The control panel ensures there is hardly any learning curve for most users.

Plus, the detachable basket has a nonstick coating and is dishwasher-safe. Cleaning up should hence be hassle-free.

Actual Cooking Performance

I have seen and used several air fryers over the years. But I must admit very few are as easy to use as this Cosori model. It has one of the most intuitive interfaces you can get. There is hardly any learning curve, even if you have never used an air fry.

I also love how well it cooks most fish dishes. There is enough room to fit a medium-sized red bass or tilapia whole. And you can also cook at least 4 fillets in one batch.

The best part is that all the fish dishes we tried cooked fast. Everything from whole fish to fish fingers and other snacks is cooked in under 15 minutes. Plus, the powerful heating element ensures the fish treats always get super crispy.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

Buy this air fryer if you want something super easy to use. This model is also your perfect bet if you prefer a highly customizable unit.

2. Ninja AF161 Max XL Air Fryer 

Ninja-AF161-Max-XL-Air-Fryer

If you love crispy battered fish or whole fish with extra crunchy skin, the Ninja AF161 will serve you well. The air fryer gets hotter. The high temperature and advanced cooking technology ensure you always get maximum crispiness, you can also check the best 10 ninja air fryers list.

Pros

  • Runs quietly
  • Attractive look with a glossy finish
  • No plastic smell even when new
  • Crisps foods nicely
  • Space-saving design

Cons

  • No presets for specific foods
  • Round basket is not always very practical

Key Features and Benefits

The sleek and glossy look is the first element that draws you to this Ninja air fryer. Still, it has many other features and benefits. For starters, it is a multifunctional model. It can bake, air fry fish, and even dehydrate other dishes.

The air fryer uses Max Crisp Technology. The tech delivers superheated air at 450°F. Other air fryers will get to 400°F. It allows the air fryer to cook up to 30% faster.

This model also cleans easily. The basket has a ceramic coating that prevents food from sticking. And it is also dishwasher-safe. Also, the sleek surfaces wipe easily and are more resistant to staining.

Another feature is the one-touch control panel. The one-touch buttons are highly responsive. They will make the appliance hassle-free to use.

Actual Cooking Performance

If you do not like spending a lot of time cooking, this air fryer is for you. Everything cooks to perfection in just a few minutes. Plus, the outcomes are also fantastic.

For instance, frozen fish fingers cook in just 12 to 15 minutes. Also, they always get super crunchy if you drizzle a little oil. I also love that they get a perfect golden brown color and that the inside always remains moist.

Just remember that cooking at 450°F means there is a higher risk of burning your fish. It is better to keep the temperature between 380°F and 400°F for most fish dishes.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

Buy this air fryer if you are looking for something more space-saving. It is also a good buy if most of your recipes entail cooking at high temperatures.

3. NuWave Brio 8-Qt Air Fryer 

NUWAVE Brio 8-Qt Air Fryer

The NuWave Brio is made for you if you cook a lot of frozen fish. The powerful air fryer lets you quickly cook frozen fish fillets and treats. And the best part is that you never have to waste any time thawing the fish, you can also check the best 10 Nuwave air fryers list.

Pros

  • Easier to use than anticipated
  • Comes with a detailed manual with several recipes
  • No loud beeps
  • Includes a window for monitoring food as it cooks
  • Large capacity

Cons

  • The basket can be a little hard to remove
  • No shake reminder

Key Features and Benefits

The NuWave Brio is one of the largest air fryers in this review. The 8-quart capacity makes it perfect for cooking whole fish. It can also hold several pounds of air-fried fish snacks like fish fingers.

The air fryer uses Linear T technology to allow you to set more precise cooking temperatures. It supports a wider temperature range (50°F-400°F). You can set your cooking temperature in 5°F increments. This is more precise than the majority of air fryers I have used. Most models allow you to adjust the temperature in 10°F increments. 

You can also easily keep track of the internal temperature when cooking. The appliance has a temperature probe. The probe allows you to control your fish’s doneness more precisely.

Plus, this air fryer has more presets. There are over 100 pre-programmed presets and 50 memory slots. You can hence save all your favorite cooking programs. This ensures you have an easier time cooking the foods you cook often. For instance, you can save your preferred whole fish cooking time and temperature.

Actual Cooking Performance

The NuWave Brio is one of the most powerful air fryers you can get out there. The 1800-watt model delivers enough heat to cook whole fish and fillets within just a few minutes. Plus, the high heat ensures the fish always get super crunchy.

The best part about this air fryer is its nice view window. I love that you can easily see the food as it cooks. This feature is handy when cooking delicate fish types that can easily burn or fall apart.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

This air fryer is the perfect choice for you if you cook lots of frozen fish. The powerful heating element will crisp your frozen fish without having to thaw it.

4. Ultrean XL 6 Quart 8-in-1 Electric Hot Air Fryer Oven 

Ultrean Air Fryer XL 6 Quart 8-in-1 Electric Hot Air Fryer Oven Oilless Cooker

The Ultrean XL 8-in-1 air fryer oven has a dedicated fish preset. The preset makes it easy to cook all your favorite fish recipes. The 1700-watt air fryer is also powerful enough. Plus, you get a decent cooking space for a medium size family.

Pros

  • Makes great tasting dishes
  • Easy to clean
  • Easily adjustable time and temperature
  • Variety of color options

Cons

  • Can only run for 30 minutes at a time

Key Features and Benefits

The 6-quart Ultrean air fryer is a feature-rich model. It is guaranteed to elevate your cooking. For starters, it is quite a versatile model. The air fryer oven supports 8 cooking functions. They include one dedicated to cooking all kinds of fish.

Operating the air fryer is also hassle-free, thanks to the LED control panel. The touch panel is highly intuitive and easy to figure out. There is also a knob for easily adjusting the time and temperature.

Other features include an easy-to-clean nonstick material and a matte finish. Plus, you can get the air fryer in several color options. Getting something to match your kitchen’s color theme should be more accessible.

Actual Cooking Performance

This air fryer makes some of the best-tasting salmon. And there is little you need to do to cook your salmon. Just season it and choose the fish preset, and your salmon will cook to perfection in 15 minutes.

The air fryer leaves the fish with nice crunchy skin. But the best part is that it will not dry out the salmon. Moreover, there is still enough space to throw in some veggies. You can add some green beans or asparagus to cook with the fish.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

Buy this air fryer if you want an easy-to-use model that makes cooking fish hassle-free. The air fryer is also ideal for a family of 3 to 5.

5. GoWise USA Deluxe 12.7-Quarts 15-in-1 Air Fryer Oven 

GoWISE USA GW44800-O Deluxe 12.7-Quarts 15-in-1 Electric Air Fryer Oven with Rotisserie and Dehydrator

The 12.7-quart GoWise USA Deluxe air fryer oven is built for a large family. The air fryer can hold enough fish portions for 8 to 10 people. Plus, it is one of the most versatile models on this list. You can use it to air fry, roast, or even bake your fish.

Pros

  • Easy-to-use control panel
  • The drip tray is highly useful
  • Versatile cooking functions
  • Well-designed to give users an easy time

Cons

  • Quite tall and will not fit under some cabinets
  • Shoots out hot air from the back when cooking

Key Features and Benefits

The large capacity is the main highlight of this air fryer. The 12.7-quart capacity means it can hold 2 to 4 whole fish, depending on the size. Also, you can cook several pounds of fish fingers, fish popcorn or fish cutlets.

This air fryer oven is also built for versatility. It supports 15 different cooking functions and has a preset for each to simplify cooking for you. There is even a built-in rotisserie to allow you to rotisserie your large meat cuts. And you will also get at least 10 accessories. They will ensure you have everything you need to make tasty homemade meals.

Actual Cooking Performance

We all love appliances that reduce our time in the kitchen. This model is one of the best for this. Its three cooking levels mean you can cook your meals in one batch. You can have your fillet on one rack, potatoes on another and veggies on the last one.

Everything will cook well and evenly. Also, it all cooks at the same rate. You will never have to worry about any food over or undercooking.

Another thing you will love is that this air fryer oven allows you to cook fish in several ways. You can roast your whole fish, air fry your fish fingers or bake your fish fillets.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

This air fryer is perfect for anyone who cooks for a large family or group. It is also a good choice if you want something highly versatile.

6. Chefman Large Air Fryer Max XL 8 Qt 

CHEFMAN Large Air Fryer Max XL 8 Qt

The Chefman Large Air Fryer has a large basket that can fit a large whole fish. The air fryer is also built for healthier cooking. It will allow you to cook with up to 98% less oil. You can hence make your fish recipes healthier, you can also check the best 10 Chefman air fryers list.

Pros

  • Heavy-duty overall build
  • Preheat and cook super fast
  • Food gets nice and crispy
  • Can cook a lot of food in one batch
  • Super easy cleanup

Cons

  • Silicon stop racks do not feel very safe for high-temperature cooking
  • Can sometimes be quite loud

Key Features and Benefits

The sleek stainless steel finish is the fast element that draws you to this air fryer. The clean finish will ensure it looks great in any kitchen. Also, it is more durable and makes the appliance easier to clean.

The spacious 8-quart basket is also perfect. It will allow you to cook whole fish and large fillets. Plus, this air fryer has dedicated presets for common dishes. There is even a preset for coking seafood that will be perfect for most of your fish recipes.

This air fryer is also built for healthier cooking. The appliance can cook your fish and other recipes with up to 98% less oil. Plus, you can always be sure of even cooking. There is a shake reminder to ensure you never forget to flip the fish.

Actual Cooking Performance

This air fryer makes some of the crispiest fish fingers and fish cutlets. Any other breaded fish recipe should also get super crispy. The only thing to remember is that you need to spray a little oil on your fish before air frying.

We also found this air fryer perfect for cooking frozen fish. The fish does not need any thawing. And you can cook it from frozen to crispy in 15 minutes. It will make delicious food and save you a lot of time.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

Buy this air fryer if you want to make healthier fish recipes. It will allow you to make your fish with almost zero oil without compromising the taste or texture.

7. Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1, 4QT Air Fryer Oven 

Instant-Vortex-Plus-Air-Fryer-Oven

The Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 is built to save you both time and space. Its super compact size ensures it hardly takes up significant kitchen space. Also, the little to no preheat time allows it to cook faster than other models.

Pros

  • Takes up little counter space
  • Cleans easily and does not stain
  • Heats up super fast
  • Gives food a nice crunch

Cons

  • Slides around as the base is not very heavy
  • The plastic smell when new

Key Features and Benefits

This 4-quart air fryer is one of the smallest in this review. But you will be surprised by how much food you can cook. You can easily fit 2 or 3 pounds of fish in there and still leave enough room for veggies.

The size should be enough for a couple or a small family. Besides the capacity, this air fryer also makes some delightful meals. It uses EvenCrisp technology to ensure your food is delicious and extra crunchy.

The 6-in-1 air fryer allows you to air fry, bake, and much more. You can hence cook your fish any way you like. Plus, there are 4 customizable smart programs. You can save cooking time and temperature for your favorite recipes.

This should also be a safer appliance. It features several built-in safety features. The safety features include auto shut-off and overheat protection.

Actual Cooking Performance

The Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 is one of the few air fryers that work as expected. For starters, you hardly ever have to wait for the appliances to get hot. There is little to no preheat time required, which reduces your total cooking time. Other models will take at least 15 minutes to cook fish fillet. This one will cook it in just 12 minutes.

You will also love that this air fryer leaves everything with a nice crunch. Your fish delicacies and snacks always get crisp outside, making them more delicious. And it will crisp the fish while leaving the inside moist and tender.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

Buy this air fryer if you want a model that can cook your fish super fast. This air fryer also makes a perfect option for smaller families.

8. Ninja SP101 Digital Air Fry Countertop Oven 

Ninja-SP101-Digital-flip-up-Air-Fry-Countertop-toaster-Oven

Roasting allows you to make your fish healthier. The Ninja SP101 will make roasting fish easier for you. It even has a dedicated air roast function. The air fryer is also built for user convenience. It has features like a removable crumb tray and a flip-away design.

Pros

  • Controls have a shorter learning curve
  • Heats up and cooks fast
  • Has a nice interior light
  • Great for making sheet pan meals

Cons

  • Seems to have some hot spots
  • Gets hot on the outside

Key Features and Benefits

The flip-away design is one of the best features of this air fryer. It lets you flip away the appliance for easy storage once you finish cooking. The design and features, like a removable back panel, make cleaning easier.

This air fryer also has digital crisp control technology. The technology lets you precisely control the heat source and temperature. This ensures you always get the best cooking outcomes. It also allows the air fryer to support more cooking functions. You can use the appliance to roast, toast and much more.

The air fryer is also made for fast cooking. It heats super fast and cooks most meals in under 20 minutes. Also, it has a large cooking surface. You can easily cook several whole fish and multiple portions of fish fillet. Plus, there are different rack levels. This allows you to cook different dishes in one batch.

Actual Cooking Performance

Even if you are not a fan of air frying, this air fryer oven can still serve you well. It allows you to cook your fish in other ways besides air frying. You can use it for baking or roasting your favorite fish types.

You should, however, note that the cooking outcomes depend on your recipe. Some simple recipes like baked fish always come out perfectly. Although the fish is not the crispiest, it cooks well and gets nice and flaky.

The controls are easy to figure out. Most people take under 5 minutes to figure out the right setting for their fish recipes.

Who Should Buy this Air Fryer?

Get this model if you want something that can both cook fish and toast bread. It is also perfect for those with limited counter space as it flips away for easy storage.

Buying Guide: 8 Things to Consider When Shopping for the Best Air Fryer for Fish

Ultimately, the best air fryer for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Still, consider the following points when shopping. This will ensure you make a more informed choice:

1. Capacity

Your air fryer should be large enough to hold your typical fish portions. It is important to consider the number of people you cook for when deciding the size to buy.

Also, do you intend to cook small fish cuts or whole fish? If you want to be able to cook a whole fish, you need an air fryer with a large capacity. From my experience, larger air fryers are always better for cooking fish. They allow you to a whole fish and make cooking things like fish fingers easier.

Something with at least a 4-quart capacity should be perfect for cooking fish. Choose a model with a 7 or 8-quart capacity if you have a larger family. You can still cook fish in a smaller model. But you must cut it into smaller pieces or cook it in several batches.

2. Wattage

Any air fryer you choose should be powerful enough. A powerful model will generate high and consistent heat. It will allow you to cook your fish faster. You hence spend less time in the kitchen.

The truth is that you do not need a very powerful air fryer to cook fish. I have cooked some wonderful fish recipes on smaller, 1200-watt models with no issues. Still, something rated at least 1500 watts is the best. Remember you will also want to use it for cooking other things.

A 1500-watt air fryer is powerful enough to cook all your favorite fish recipes. And it can cook most in under 20 minutes.

3. Odor Control

Fish has a strong smell. The odor will quickly fill your kitchen no matter how you cook it. Most of us hate the smell as it will lingers long after cooking the fish.

The good news is that some air fryers have odor-control mechanisms. The built-in technology helps to dissipate the fish smell super fast.

Look for a model with odor control if you have the smell of fish. If not, you need a good external system to help deal with the smell.

4. Cooking Temperature

You also need to consider the cooking temperature. A good air fryer should get hot enough to cook your fish recipes. Also, it should have an adjustable temperature to suit different recipes.

The best air fryers for fish should get to 400°F. This is the ideal temperature for cooking most fish recipes. Also, a model with a wide temperature range (like 50°F-400°F) is perfect.

5. Cooking Functions

An air fryer is a versatile appliance that allows you to try different recipes. Still, you need to check the specific cooking functions you get.

An air fryer for fish should support at least the following cooking functions:

  • Air fry
  • Bake
  • Roast
  • Reheat

You should be able to use the air fry to crisp your favorite fish snacks. It should also bake and roasts your fillets. A model with a reheat function is also perfect. The air fryer makes it easy to reheat your leftover fish dishes.

6. Ease of Use

Air fryers are typically straightforward to use. Still, a model with a dedicated cooking function or preset for fish will be the easiest to use. With such a model, you can cook fish recipes by pushing just one button.

Models that have an intuitive digital interface are also easier to use. These air fryers will be easier to use if they are programmable. A programmable model lets you fine-tune the appliance to suit your cooking needs.

Knobs and dials are also easy to use. But ensure they are clearly labeled. They should also be at the top of the appliance for intuitive operation.

7. Accessories

Most air fryers come with all the accessories you need to utilize the cooking functions. If you want something for cooking fish, ensure it has at least an air fry rack and a spacious basket.

That said, to get the best from your air fryer, a grill pan or a baking pan is better. Both provide a large and flat surface that will allow you to cook your fish fillets with ease.

The accessories should also be nonstick to ensure the fish does not stick. Nonstick accessories also make cleanup less hectic.

8. Ease of Cleaning

You need to give your air fryer and the accessories a thorough cleanup after cooking fish. Fish can be quite oily, and it also has a strong smell. If you do not clean the appliance properly, you can easily transfer the smell to other foods.

Air fryers with dishwasher-safe accessories are the easiest to clean. Also, models that have nonstick accessories and surfaces are easy to clean.

Pro Tip: Always clean your air fryer immediately after cooking fish. This makes the fish oil and smells easier to eliminate.

How to Cook Fish in Air Fryer

The exact process for cooking fish in an air fryer depends on your recipe. Still, you can follow some general steps to ensure the best outcomes:

air fryer grill chicken breast

Step 1: Prep the Fish

The first step is to prep the fish. If the fish is frozen, take it out a few hours before cooking to allow it to thaw. Once the fish is thawed, you should pat it dry.

Also, you can fillet the fish if it is whole. While still at it, you can prepare your breading or spice rub if you will not bread the fish.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Next, you should preheat the air fryer to 400°F. The exact temperature depends on your recipe. Also, most air fryers require anywhere from 3 to 10 minutes. Check your manual to determine the actual preheat time.

Step 3: Bread or Season the Fish

Next, you should bread the fish. If not breading, season both sides with salt and black pepper. The fish should be ready to cook now.

Step 4: Add the Fish and Cook for 15 minutes

The last step is to add the fish and set the timer to between 12 and 15 minutes. Remember to flip the fish at the 7 or 8-minute mark. Flipping ensures more even cooking.

Easy Air Fryer Fish Recipes

1. Fish fillets in the air fryer

Cooking fish fillets in the air fryer is easy. Also, it only takes a few minutes as there is nothing much to do. But the best part is that the fish fillet is always super crispy and delicious.

What you need

  • Frozen breaded fish fillets
  • Olive oil

Directions

  • Lightly spray the breaded fish fillets with the olive oil 
  • Arrange the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer
  • Preheat the air fryer to 380°F
  • Cook the fish fillet for 12 minutes, and remember to flip it after 6 minutes

Note: Do not thaw the fish fash. Also, you can skip oil to make your fish fillet even healthier.

2. Fish in an air fryer with no breading

If you do not have time to bread your fish. Or you do not have breaded fish in the fridge; you can still air fry your fresh fish. Some fish types, like tilapia, taste much better without breading. They will have a nice crispy exterior, and the inside will be tender and flaky. Plus, cooking the fish only requires you to season and place it in the basket.

What you need

  • Frozen or fresh tilapia fillets
  • Olive oil
  • Your favorite fish seasoning (lemon pepper, garlic, onion powders, etc)

Directions

  • Start by spraying the air fryer rack with oil to prevent the fish from sticking
  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F
  • Mix the seasonings in a bowl
  • Sprinkle the seasoning generously on both sides of the fish
  • Place the fillets on the rack and add it to the air fryer
  • Cook for 12 minutes and do not flip the fish as you would with other dishes. Tilapia is very delicate and can fall apart if you try to flip

3. Cooking whole fish in an air fryer

Whole fish in an air fryer will be highly flavorful. But the best part is that the fish will have that perfectly crisp skin you love. You can customize the flavor to suit your taste buds by using your favorite seasonings.

What you need

  • Whole red snapper, tilapia or sea bass
  • Olive oil
  • Kosher salt
  • Black pepper
  • Crushed garlic
  • Lemon slices
  • Any other fish seasoning or spice you love 

Directions

  • Pat the fish dry
  • Mix the seasoning in a bowl
  • Apply the seasoning generously on both sides of the fish and the inside
  • Place the thyme, lemon slices and garlic inside the fish
  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F
  • Add the fish and cool for 12 to 16 minutes or until the internal temperature is 165°F

4. Baked fish in the air fryer

Baked fish is one of my favorite recipes. I love the recipe because the fish is always moist and tender. Also, it is highly flavorful. And if you allow it to bake for a few extra minutes, the exterior gets super crispy.

What you need

  • Fresh or frozen fish fillets
  • Salt and pepper
  • Melted butter
  • Any other seasoning you like

Directions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F
  • Place the fish fillet on your greased baking pan
  • Sprinkle both sides of the fish with salt, pepper and your favorite fish seasoning. 
  • Drizzle the melted butter on the fish
  • Add fish to the air fryer and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until it gets flaky

5. Battered fish in the air fryer

An air fryer is your best bet if you want to enjoy the flavor of battered fish. Plus it does not have a lot of calories. Air-fried battered fish will have a light and crunchy exterior. And the interior will remain moist and flaky. Plus, the recipe is as easy as deep frying.

What you need

  • Skinless cod fillet
  • Thick wet batter
  • Cooking spray

Directions 

  • Pat dry the fish
  • Prepare the wet batter. You will need all-purpose flour, eggs, baking soda and your favorite seasonings. Add any spice you like, but ensure the batter is thick enough.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 390°F
  • Coat the basket with a generous amount of cooking spray
  • Coat the fish with the batter
  • Spray the exterior with oil
  • Cook for 13 minutes or until the exterior is golden brown

Best frozen fish for air fryer

You need to use the best quality fish when air frying. Although fresh fish is always the best, it might not always be available. The next best thing is high-quality frozen fish fillets. Something like Gorton’s Crispy Battered Fish Fillets should be perfect.

Gortons Crispy Battered Fish Fillets 19 oz Frozen

This frozen fish is perfect because it is made from 100% whole fish. It is not minced and does not contain any fillers. Also, the fish filet does not have artificial colors/flavors. Plus, it does not have hydrogenated oils like others.

You can hence be sure of enjoying the real fish taste you yearn for and a healthy meal. The batter is also top quality and with some amazing flavor. The fish will get super crispy while remaining moist inside when you air fry it. You can be sure of enjoying a delightful air-fried meal.

Is air-frying fish healthy?

Yes, air-fried fish is healthier than deep-fried or roasted fish. Air frying reduces most of the unhealthy oils added when deep frying. The fish will hence have relatively fewer calories.

In many instances, you do not even need to use any oil when air frying fish. For instance, you can air fryer battered frozen fish fillets without adding any oil. Your fish will have even fewer calories and less fat.

One serving or air-fried will have around 266 calories. A serving of deep-fried fish can have upwards of 400 calories.

Plus, air frying preserves most of the protein, nutrients and healthy fats in the fish. The fish will hence have more nutritional value for your body.

How Long Does It Take to Cook Fish in an Air Fryer

That largely depends on the fish’s size and thickness. Other factors, like the batter thickness, can affect the total time it takes to cook.

That said, thin slices of fresh fish fillest will cook in as little as 10 minutes. Battered fish will require between 12 and 15 minutes. Whole fish will take longer, especially if it is thick, but 15 to 20 minutes is still enough.

Final Thoughts: Which is the Best Air Fryer for Fish?

The best air fryer for fish largely depends on your specific needs. It also depends on the types of fish recipes you cook a lot. If you cook fillets and whole fish often, you need something with a large capacity. A smaller model can still work for fish treats like fish fingers and cutlets.

That said, every model on our list above should work well for you. You only need to choose what suits your budget, counter space and the recipes you cook often.

So which is your favorite air fryer for cooking fish? Why do you love it, and would you recommend it to others? Please share your feedback in the comments section.

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