Air Fryer Frozen Fish Fillets: Crispy & Easy Recipe
Air Fryer Frozen Fish Fillets are one of the easiest ways to get dinner on the table fast—and the best part is, they turn out perfectly crispy every single time. Whether you’re cooking air fryer fish fillets straight from the freezer or experimenting with lightly seasoned air fryer fish fillets frozen, the air fryer makes the process simple and foolproof. In just 10–15 minutes, you’ll have golden, crunchy fish on the outside with tender, flaky layers inside. It’s the perfect solution for busy nights, quick lunches, or when you’re craving a healthier twist on classic fried fish without the hassle of deep frying. Once you try this method, you’ll never want to go back to soggy oven-baked fillets again!
Why Make Air Fryer Frozen Fish Fillets?
Cooking air fryer fish fillets frozen is a total game-changer, and here’s why you’ll love it:
- No thawing needed — straight from freezer to fryer.
- Super quick — dinner ready in under 15 minutes.
- Crispy perfection — golden outside, flaky inside.
- Healthier option — less oil than deep frying.
- Family-friendly — kids and adults both love it.
With the air fryer, you can enjoy the taste and texture of your favorite crispy air fryer fish fillets without the hassle of preheating the oven or waiting forever. It’s fast, convenient, and gives you that restaurant-style crunch right at home.
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Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer (any size works, but a basket-style is best).
- Tongs (for flipping the fish halfway).
- Kitchen thermometer (optional, to ensure fish hits 145°F / 63°C inside).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making crispy air fryer frozen fish fillets couldn’t be simpler—you really only need a couple of things:
- Frozen fish fillets (breaded or unbreaded – any brand works).
- Cooking spray (optional, for extra crispiness).
- Lemon wedges (for serving).
- Tartar sauce or dipping sauce (optional but highly recommended).
That’s it! The beauty of this recipe is how minimal it is. You don’t need fancy ingredients—just good-quality frozen fillets and your trusty air fryer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating helps the fish fillets cook evenly and get that crispy coating you’re after.
Step 2: Arrange the Fish Fillets
Place your air fryer frozen fish fillets in a single layer in the basket. Don’t overcrowd—air needs to circulate for maximum crispiness. If you like, give them a light spritz of cooking spray.
Step 3: Air Fry the Fish
Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Thicker fillets may need a couple more minutes. For extra crunch, add an extra 1–2 minutes at the end.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Once golden and crispy, remove the fillets and let them cool slightly. Serve with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or your favorite sides.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Fish Fillets
Want your air fryer frozen fish fillets to turn out golden and crispy every single time? Here are my best tips:
- Don’t overcrowd the basket — air needs to flow freely around the fillets for even cooking.
- Flip halfway — this ensures both sides of your air fryer fish fillets frozen come out crunchy.
- Check thickness — thinner fillets may cook in 8–10 minutes, while thicker ones could take up to 14.
- Add a spritz of oil — optional, but it helps the coating crisp up beautifully.
- Use parchment paper (with holes) — makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
- Always check doneness — fish should reach an internal temp of 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.
Following these little tricks means your fish fillets will come out flaky inside, crunchy outside, and never soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the basket – prevents even crisping.
- Skipping the flip – one side will be soggy.
- Not preheating – results in uneven texture.
- Refreezing cooked fish – ruins texture.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers: Store cooked fish fillets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer: Pop them back in at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
- Freezing not recommended: Once cooked, fish fillets don’t refreeze well — they tend to get soggy.
Variations to Try
- Spicy kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne, paprika, or chili powder before cooking.
- Cheesy twist: Top fillets with shredded parmesan in the last 2 minutes of air frying.
- Lemon herb style: Squeeze fresh lemon juice and sprinkle parsley before serving.
- Light & plain: Use unbreaded fish fillets for a lower-carb, gluten-free version.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
(based on one breaded fish fillet, may vary by brand)
- Calories: ~200
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
Tip: Always check the packaging of your specific frozen fish fillets for exact nutrition details.
Diet & Lifestyle Notes
- Pescatarian-friendly
- Can be made gluten-free with unbreaded or gluten-free breaded fillets.
- Works for low-carb diets if using plain fish fillets.
Safety Notes
Always ensure your fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe eating. Use a food thermometer if needed.
What to Serve With Air Fryer Fish Fillets
Crispy air fryer frozen fish fillets are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right sides and sauces takes the meal to the next level. Here are some tasty ideas:
- Classic fish & chips – serve with fries or potato wedges for that takeaway-style comfort food.
- Fresh salads – coleslaw, Caesar salad, or a simple green salad balance the crispiness of the fish.
- Dipping sauces – tartar sauce, spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or even sweet chili sauce all pair beautifully.
- Veggie sides – roasted broccoli, green beans, or air fryer zucchini fries make it a lighter option.
| Side Dish Idea | Why It Works Well |
|---|---|
| Crispy fries | Classic fish & chips combo |
| Coleslaw | Creamy crunch to balance |
| Caesar salad | Fresh and zesty contrast |
| Tartar sauce | Traditional dip for fish |
| Roasted veggies | Lighter, wholesome choice |
With these options, you can keep it casual for a weeknight dinner or dress it up for a family meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you cook frozen fish fillets in the air fryer?
Most air fryer frozen fish fillets take 10–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Flip halfway through for even crispiness.
Can you cook Gorton’s frozen fish fillets in an air fryer?
Yes! Gorton’s breaded fish fillets cook perfectly in the air fryer. Place them in a single layer and air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
How long does a fish fillet take in an air fryer?
Fresh or thawed fish fillets usually take 8–10 minutes, while frozen fish fillets take closer to 12–14 minutes, depending on thickness.
How long to cook Gorton’s frozen fish fillets?
To get that crispy, golden finish, cook Gorton’s frozen fish fillets in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes. Be sure to place them in a single layer and flip them halfway through so both sides crisp up evenly. If you prefer extra crunch, let them go for an additional 1–2 minutes. Always check that the fish is cooked through — it should be hot, flaky inside, and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) before serving.
Can you put battered fish in an air fryer?
Yes — but use pre-battered frozen fish. Homemade wet-batter recipes don’t work well in air fryers (the batter drips). For best results, stick to breaded or store-bought battered fish.
Can You Reheat Air Fryer Frozen Fish Fillets?
Yes! The air fryer isn’t just great for cooking frozen fish fillets — it’s also the best way to reheat leftovers while keeping them crispy.
Air Fryer Method (best): Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes until hot and crunchy.
Oven Method: Bake at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, though the texture won’t be as crisp.
Microwave (not recommended): It warms the fish but makes the coating soggy.
Pro tip: Don’t reheat more than once — fish dries out quickly.
Recipe
Air Fryer Frozen Fish Fillets Recipe
Crispy, golden air fryer frozen fish fillets made in just 15 minutes — no thawing required! Quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or a healthier take on fish and chips.
Ingredients
- 4 frozen fish fillets (breaded or unbreaded, e.g., Gorton’s)
- Cooking spray (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Tartar sauce or dipping sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange fish fillets in a single layer in the basket. Lightly spritz with cooking spray if desired.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add 1–2 minutes for extra crunch.
- Check doneness — fish should be flaky inside and reach 145°F (63°C).
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or your favorite sides.
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket — cook in batches if needed.
- Unbreaded frozen fish fillets also work; just lightly season before air frying.
- Reheat leftovers at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes in the air fryer to keep them crispy.
- Always follow safe cooking guidelines: fish should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1 fish filletAmount Per Serving:Calories: 200Total Fat: 9gSodium: 350mgCarbohydrates: 28gFiber: 1gProtein: 12g
Always check your packaging for the most accurate nutrition info.
Cooking air fryer frozen fish fillets is one of the easiest ways to enjoy a quick, crispy, and satisfying meal without the hassle of deep frying. In just 10–15 minutes, you’ll have golden fish fillets that are crunchy on the outside and flaky on the inside — straight from the freezer to your plate. Whether you’re using Gorton’s, another brand, or even plain frozen fish, the air fryer guarantees reliable results every time.
So next time you’re craving a simple dinner or a healthier twist on classic fish and chips, give these air fryer fish fillets (from frozen) a try. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments — I’d love to hear how yours turn out! And for more quick and easy air fryer recipes, follow me on Pinterest and Instagram @quickwhiskrecipes.
