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Weeknight • Seafood

Crispy Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Achieve perfectly crispy fish for tacos in the air fryer, paired with a zesty slaw for a quick and fresh meal.

Prep
15 min
Cook
15 min
Servings
4
Level
Weeknight
Crispy Air Fryer Fish Tacos

Craving fish tacos but don't want the mess of frying? Enter the air fryer! This recipe delivers exceptionally crispy, flaky fish with minimal oil, making your taco night healthier and easier. Pair it with a vibrant, zesty slaw, and you've got a fresh, satisfying meal everyone will rave about. Taco Tuesday just got an upgrade!

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

For the Crispy Fish

  • 1 lb firm white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi), cut into 1-inch strips
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 large egg, whisked
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil spray

For the Zesty Slaw

  • 3 cups pre-shredded coleslaw mix
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  • 8-12 small tortillas (corn or flour)
  • Lime wedges
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salsa or avocado slices (optional)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a shallow dish, combine flour, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another shallow dish, add the whisked egg. In a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.

  2. Step 2

    Dredge each fish strip first in the seasoned flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat generously in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.

  3. Step 3

    Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place fish in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd. Spray the tops of the fish with olive oil.

  4. Step 4

    Air fry for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown, crispy, and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Cook in batches if necessary.

  5. Step 5

    While fish cooks, prepare the slaw: In a medium bowl, combine coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, lime juice, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.

  6. Step 6

    Warm tortillas according to package directions. Assemble tacos with crispy fish, zesty slaw, a squeeze of fresh lime, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Add other desired toppings.

Tips

  • Don't skip spraying the panko-coated fish with oil; it helps achieve that perfect crispness.
  • Cut fish into uniform pieces for even cooking.
  • Corn tortillas can be quickly warmed in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side.

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