Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy texture without the excess oil
- Mild, flaky haddock that’s family-friendly and nutritious
- Quick cooking time for busy days
- Versatile seasoning options for different flavor profiles
- Great alternative to takeout fried fish
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Haddock fillets (fresh or thawed if frozen)
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Salt and black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Optional breaded version:
- All-purpose flour
- Egg
- Panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes
- Optional: parmesan cheese, herbs, or spices for the breadcrumb mix
Directions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Pat the fish dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season the haddock: Rub both sides with oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- For a breaded version: Dip each fillet into flour, then egg, then coat with seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Place fillets in air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway if desired, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is golden brown. Internal temp should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or a side salad.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 2–3
- Prep time: 5–10 minutes
- Cook time: 8–10 minutes
- Total time: 15–20 minutes
Variations
- Blackened haddock: Use a Cajun seasoning blend instead of traditional spices
- Gluten-free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for coating
- Low-carb: Skip the breading and stick to simple spices and oil
- Lemon-herb: Add chopped dill, parsley, or thyme for a zesty, fresh touch
- Fish tacos: Flake the cooked haddock and serve in tortillas with slaw and sauce
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 3–5 minutes until warmed and crisp again
- Freezing: Not ideal after cooking, as texture may change—but you can freeze raw, breaded fillets before cooking
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen haddock?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking for best results.
2. How do I prevent the fish from sticking?
Brush or spray the air fryer basket with oil, or use parchment paper with holes.
3. Can I use other fish?
Absolutely. Cod, pollock, tilapia, or halibut work well with the same method.
4. Should I remove the skin?
Skin-on works, but for even cooking and easy crisping, skinless fillets are preferred.
5. What sides go well with air fryer haddock?
Try roasted veggies, fries, rice, coleslaw, or a green salad.
6. How do I know when it’s done?
The fish should flake easily and appear opaque throughout. Internal temp should be 145°F.
7. Is breading necessary?
No—haddock is delicious seasoned and cooked plain, especially for a low-carb or lighter option.
8. Can I marinate the fish beforehand?
Yes, but limit acidic marinades to 15–20 minutes to avoid mushy texture.
9. What dipping sauces pair well?
Tartar sauce, lemon aioli, garlic butter, or a drizzle of malt vinegar.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches. Avoid overlapping the fillets to maintain crispness.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Haddock is a foolproof way to enjoy a delicious, nutritious seafood meal with little effort and no grease. Whether breaded or simply seasoned, this dish is packed with flavor, texture, and versatility—perfect for busy evenings or a relaxed weekend dinner.
PrintAir Fryer Haddock
Air Fryer Haddock is a light, flaky white fish with a golden crisp coating, cooked quickly without deep frying. A healthy, family-friendly seafood option for easy weeknight meals.
- Prep Time: 5–10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: 15–20 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
Ingredients
- 2–3 haddock fillets (fresh or thawed)
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Optional breaded version:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes
- Optional: 2 tbsp grated parmesan, dried herbs, or extra spices
Instructions
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Pat haddock fillets dry with paper towels.
- Rub with olive oil and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Breaded version: Dredge each fillet in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs. - Arrange fillets in a single layer in air fryer basket, avoiding overlap.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway if desired, until golden brown and fish flakes easily. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or salad.
Notes
- Use parchment liners with holes to prevent sticking.
- Do not overcook—haddock is delicate and cooks quickly.
- Adjust seasoning or breading mix to match your preferred flavor profile.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g (unbreaded), 18g (breaded)
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg