A lighter take on a classic favorite, this air fryer fish and chips recipe delivers crispy golden fish and perfectly tender fries without deep frying. It’s simple, satisfying, and ideal for a quick homemade meal that still feels indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe gives you all the crunch and flavor of traditional fish and chips with much less oil. The air fryer makes the process faster and cleaner, while still achieving a crisp exterior and flaky interior. It’s a great option for weeknight dinners, and you can easily customize the seasoning to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on texture or taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the fish:
2 large white fish fillets (such as cod or haddock), about 150–180 g each
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
1 tablespoon olive oil spray
For the chips:
3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into thick fries
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional for serving:
lemon wedges
tartar sauce
Directions
Start by preparing the chips. Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 20 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat them completely dry using a clean towel. Toss the fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C. Place the fries in the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
While the fries are cooking, prepare the fish. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour mixed with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; one with beaten eggs; and one with breadcrumbs.
Pat the fish fillets dry, then coat each piece in the seasoned flour, followed by the egg mixture, and finally the breadcrumbs. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and place the breaded fish inside. Spray the tops of the fish with a little more oil. Cook at 200°C for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is crisp and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Once everything is cooked, serve the fish alongside the fries with lemon wedges and tartar sauce if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 2 to 3 people. Preparation time is about 25 minutes, including soaking the potatoes. Cooking time is approximately 25–30 minutes total, depending on your air fryer size and how many batches you cook.
Variations
You can switch up the fish by using tilapia, pollock, or even salmon for a richer flavor. For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
Add extra seasoning to the breadcrumbs, such as dried herbs, chili flakes, or grated parmesan for a more intense flavor. Sweet potatoes can be used instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter and more nutritious option.
If you prefer a lighter coating, skip the breadcrumbs and simply season the fish before air frying.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover fish and chips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 180°C for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the coating soggy. If freezing, wrap the cooked fish individually and store for up to one month. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 180°C for about 10–12 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks properly.
Why are my fries not crispy?
This usually happens if the potatoes are too wet or overcrowded in the air fryer. Make sure to dry them well and cook in batches if needed.
Do I need to flip the fish?
Yes, flipping halfway through ensures even cooking and crispiness on both sides.
Can I make this without breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can skip breadcrumbs for a lighter version, though the texture will be less crispy.
What type of potatoes work best?
Russet or other starchy potatoes are ideal for crispy fries.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can bread the fish ahead and refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking.
How do I know the fish is done?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of about 63°C.
Can I add spices to the fries?
Absolutely, paprika, garlic powder, or even a pinch of chili powder can enhance the flavor.
Is this recipe healthy?
It’s healthier than deep-fried versions because it uses much less oil.
Can I cook fish and fries together?
It’s better to cook them separately to ensure both cook evenly and get crispy.
Conclusion
Air fryer fish and chips is a simple, delicious way to enjoy a classic dish with less oil and effort. With its crispy coating and tender interior, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family, it’s a reliable and satisfying meal that’s easy to make again and again.
Crispy air fryer fish and chips with golden breaded fish and tender fries, offering a lighter version of the classic dish with less oil and full flavor.
Ingredients
For the fish:
2 large white fish fillets (cod or haddock)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko)
Olive oil spray
For the chips:
3 large potatoes, cut into fries
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For serving:
Lemon wedges (optional)
Tartar sauce (optional)
Instructions
Soak cut potatoes in cold water for 20 minutes, then drain and dry.
Toss fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Preheat air fryer to 200°C.
Cook fries for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Prepare breading station with flour mixture, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
Coat fish in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
Spray air fryer basket and place fish inside.
Cook fish at 200°C for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
