I love this recipe because it delivers crispy fish with minimal effort and less oil. The air fryer does an amazing job creating a crunchy coating while keeping the fish tender and flaky inside. It’s fast, simple, and works well with different types of fish, making it a reliable go-to meal.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
1 cup dry bread crumbs ¼ cup vegetable oil 4 flounder fillets 1 egg, beaten 1 lemon, sliced
Directions
I start by preheating the air fryer so it’s ready to go. In a shallow bowl, I mix the bread crumbs and vegetable oil together until the mixture looks loose and evenly coated.
I dip each fish fillet into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off. Then I press the fillets into the crumb mixture, making sure each piece is fully and evenly coated.
I carefully place the coated fillets into the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them so they cook evenly. I air-fry the fish until the coating is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Once done, I remove the fish from the air fryer and garnish with fresh lemon slices before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time is about 10 minutes. Cook time is approximately 15 minutes. Total time comes to around 25 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes use different fish fillets like cod, haddock, or tilapia depending on what I have. For extra flavor, I mix spices like paprika, garlic powder, or black pepper into the bread crumbs. I’ve also added grated Parmesan to the crumbs for a richer coating.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I place it back in the air fryer for a few minutes so the coating stays crispy instead of soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, I use any firm white fish, adjusting the cooking time slightly if the fillets are thicker.
How do I keep the coating crispy?
I make sure the crumbs are mixed well with oil and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Do I need to flip the fish?
I usually don’t, but I check halfway through and flip if needed for even browning.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
I use gluten-free bread crumbs and it works just as well.
What if my crumbs look dry?
I add a little more oil until the mixture feels loose and crumbly.
Can I add seasoning?
I often season the crumbs with salt, pepper, or spices to suit my taste.
Is this recipe good for kids?
Yes, it’s mild, crispy, and kid-friendly.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
I bread the fish ahead and keep it chilled, then air-fry just before serving.
What should I serve with crumbed fish?
I serve it with salad, roasted vegetables, or fries for a complete meal.
How do I know when the fish is done?
I check that it flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through in the center.
Conclusion
This air-fried crumbed fish is a recipe I rely on when I want something crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. With simple ingredients and quick cooking, it’s a lighter take on a classic favorite that still delivers on taste and texture every time.
