Air Fryer Fish Fingers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Air Fryer Fish Fingers recipe because it’s simple, healthier than deep-fried versions, and ready in minutes. The air fryer gives them a perfect crunch without the mess or calories of frying. They’re freezer-friendly, budget-friendly, and pair wonderfully with tartar sauce, fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

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

• White fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia)
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs, beaten
• Bread crumbs (plain or panko for extra crunch)
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper
• Olive oil spray or cooking spray
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and cut them into finger-sized strips.
3. Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs mixed with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Coat each fish piece in flour, dip in egg, and then roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
6. Arrange the fish fingers in a single layer in the basket (do not overcrowd).
7. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
8. Remove and serve immediately with lemon wedges and dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking takes 10 minutes, for a total of 20 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix.
• Herb Flavor: Mix in dried parsley, dill, or thyme for a fragrant twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs and flour.
• Parmesan Crust: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the bread crumbs for a cheesy coating.
• Different Fish: Try salmon, pollock, or mahi-mahi for a unique flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover fish fingers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes until hot and crispy. To freeze, arrange uncooked fish fingers on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Air fry directly from frozen for 12–14 minutes at 400°F (200°C), flipping halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before coating.

What kind of fish is best for fish fingers?

White, firm fish like cod, haddock, pollock, or tilapia works best.

Can I use panko bread crumbs?

Absolutely—panko gives extra crunch and texture.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Yes, preheating helps achieve even crispiness.

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Spray lightly with cooking oil before air frying and use panko bread crumbs.

Can I freeze cooked fish fingers?

Yes, cool completely and freeze in a single layer. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.

What sauces go well with fish fingers?

Tartar sauce, ketchup, honey mustard, or a spicy mayo are great choices.

Can I use an egg substitute?

Yes, dip the fish in milk or a mixture of milk and mustard instead of eggs.

Are air fryer fish fingers healthier than fried ones?

Yes, they use minimal oil and are much lower in fat while staying crispy and delicious.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Fish Fingers are a quick, crispy, and satisfying meal that delivers all the flavor of traditional fried fish without the grease. They’re easy to prepare, perfectly golden, and ideal for both kids’ lunches and adult dinners. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce and sides for a light, wholesome meal everyone will love.

Air Fryer Fish Fingers

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Air Fryer Fish Fingers are crispy, golden, and perfectly tender on the inside—a healthier version of the classic fried favorite. Made with flaky white fish coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust, these easy fish fingers are a family-friendly meal ready in minutes.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

• 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup bread crumbs (panko or plain)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Olive oil spray or cooking spray
• Lemon wedges, for serving

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Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. Pat the fish fillets dry and cut into finger-sized strips.
3. Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs mixed with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Coat each fish strip in flour, dip in egg, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
6. Arrange the coated fish fingers in a single layer in the basket, avoiding overcrowding.
7. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
8. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

• Use panko bread crumbs for extra crunch.
• Preheating the air fryer ensures even crisping.
• Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed.
• Frozen uncooked fish fingers can be air fried directly for 12–14 minutes.
• Pair with tartar sauce, ketchup, or spicy mayo for dipping.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg