Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it delivers all the delicious flavor and crunch of traditional fried fish tacos with a fraction of the oil. The air fryer gives the fish a crisp coating while keeping the inside tender and juicy. These tacos are quick to prepare, easy to customize, and full of bright, fresh flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• White fish fillets (such as cod, halibut, or tilapia)
• Olive oil spray or cooking spray
• All-purpose flour
• Egg
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt and black pepper
• Corn or flour tortillas, warmed
• Shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
• Fresh lime wedges

For the Sauce:

• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Lime juice
• Garlic powder
• Chili powder or cayenne pepper
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the coating: In one bowl, place flour seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In another bowl, whisk the egg. In a third, add the panko breadcrumbs.
3. Coat the fish: Cut fish into strips. Dredge each piece first in flour, then dip in egg, and coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs stick.
4. Air fry: Arrange fish pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with oil. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
5. Make the sauce: Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt in a small bowl. Chill until ready to serve.
6. Assemble tacos: Place a few pieces of crispy fish in each tortilla, top with shredded cabbage, drizzle with sauce, and finish with a squeeze of lime.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add cayenne or chipotle powder to the seasoning mix.
• Healthier twist: Use whole wheat tortillas and Greek yogurt in the sauce.
• Toppings: Try avocado slices, pico de gallo, or pickled onions.
• Low-carb option: Serve the fish and toppings in lettuce wraps.
• Different fish: Swap white fish for salmon or mahi-mahi.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover fish separately from tortillas and toppings in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes to crisp it back up. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the fish soggy. The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

FAQs

What kind of fish is best for Air Fryer Fish Tacos?

Mild, flaky white fish such as cod, halibut, haddock, or tilapia works perfectly.

Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before coating and air frying.

How do I keep the coating crispy?

Make sure the fish is dry before coating, and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.

Can I skip the breading?

Yes, you can season the fish and air fry it without breading for a lighter, gluten-free version.

What’s the best sauce for these tacos?

A creamy lime sauce or chipotle mayo complements the crispy fish beautifully.

Can I make these ahead of time?

The sauce and toppings can be prepped ahead, but the fish is best air-fried fresh for the crispiest texture.

Do I need to flip the fish in the air fryer?

Yes, flipping halfway through ensures even crisping on both sides.

Can I use the same method for shrimp?

Absolutely—shrimp air fry beautifully with the same coating and cook in about 6–8 minutes.

What sides go well with these tacos?

Try serving with Mexican rice, black beans, or a simple corn salad.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes and serve with corn tortillas.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Fish Tacos are a quick, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy this coastal classic at home. Crispy fish, tangy sauce, and fresh toppings come together for a meal that’s as fun to eat as it is easy to make. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting taco night, these light and crunchy tacos are sure to be a hit every time.

Air Fryer Fish Tacos

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Air Fryer Fish Tacos are a light, crispy, and flavorful take on the classic fish taco. Flaky white fish is air-fried to golden perfection and served in warm tortillas with fresh slaw and a zesty lime sauce for a healthy, crowd-pleasing meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

• 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, halibut, or tilapia)
• Olive oil spray or cooking spray
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 8 corn or flour tortillas, warmed
• 2 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
• Fresh lime wedges, for serving

For the Sauce:

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper
• Salt, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
2. Prepare three bowls: one with flour mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; one with beaten egg; and one with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Cut fish into strips. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in egg, and coat with panko, pressing gently to help crumbs adhere.
4. Place coated fish in a single layer in the air fryer basket and spray lightly with oil. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
5. Meanwhile, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt in a small bowl to make the sauce. Chill until ready to use.
6. Assemble tacos by placing crispy fish pieces in each tortilla, topping with shredded cabbage, drizzling with sauce, and finishing with a squeeze of lime.

Notes

• Use mild white fish for the best flavor and texture.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if needed.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and corn tortillas.
• Add toppings like avocado, pico de gallo, or pickled onions for variety.
• Reheat leftover fish in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 tacos
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 65mg