Air Fryer Fish Tacos
Make crispy, flavor-packed air fryer fish tacos in just 30 minutes! This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or a fresh taco night twist.
Ingredients
For the Fish
- 1 to 1½ pounds white fish cod, tilapia, or mahi mahi
- Firm mild-flavored fish that crisps well in the air fryer.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning.
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Adds smoky depth.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Brings a mild kick.
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Earthy and warm great for taco seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- For rich savory flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Adds background flavor.
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Essential for balance.
For the Cilantro Lime Slaw
- 2 cups shredded cabbage green, purple, or a mix
- Adds crunch and freshness.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- Binds the slaw and adds creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice fresh
- Brightens the slaw with acidity.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- Adds herbal flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Enhances overall taste.
For Assembly
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas warmed
- Soft and pliable ready to wrap around the filling.
- Sliced avocado or guacamole optional
- Creamy and satisfying.
- Chipotle crema or sour cream optional
- Adds tangy richness.
- Lime wedges for serving
- A final squeeze lifts all the flavors.
Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the fish
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick and avoid excess moisture in the air fryer.
- Cut the fish into evenly sized strips or chunks for uniform cooking.
Step 2 – Season the fish
- In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the fish pieces and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the fish, gently rubbing it in so each piece is well coated.
Step 3 – Preheat the air fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. This helps the fish cook evenly and develop a crispy coating.
Step 4 – Air fry the fish
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket or spray it with oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the fish in a single layer in the basket—don’t overcrowd. Cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is crispy and flakes easily with a fork.
- Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 5 – Make the cilantro lime slaw
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and salt.
- Mix until well coated and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6 – Warm the tortillas
- Warm the flour or corn tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side, or microwave them in a damp towel for 20–30 seconds until soft and pliable.
Step 7 – Assemble the tacos
- Add a generous spoonful of cilantro lime slaw to each tortilla.
- Top with a few pieces of the crispy air fried fish.
- Finish with optional toppings like sliced avocado, chipotle crema, or fresh lime juice.
Notes
Nutrition Information
-
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugars: 2g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Calcium: 90mg
- Iron: 1.2mg