Air Fryer Fish Tacos feature light, flaky cod fillets seasoned with a touch of oil and Cajun spices, air-fried for a tender, non-greasy finish. This simple recipe requires minimal prep and just three main ingredients, plus tortillas and your favorite toppings, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Details on the ingredients
- Fish fillets – Use 1 pound of a white, flaky fish. Cod is used here, but tilapia, mahi mahi, snapper or haddock work well. One pound typically yields 3–4 fillet pieces depending on thickness.
- Oil – A small amount is enough to help the seasoning adhere and to promote even browning. Extra virgin olive oil is used here, but any neutral oil is fine.
- Seasoning – Cajun seasoning gives a bright, slightly spicy flavor. Use store-bought or make your own, or switch to another spice blend if preferred.
- Tortillas – Plan for about 6 medium flour tortillas; corn tortillas also work if you prefer.
How to air fry fish for tacos
- Preheat the air fryer if your model recommends preheating.
- Cut the fish into 3–4 pieces and pat dry with paper towels. Arrange on a plate or cutting board.
- Brush a thin layer of oil on both sides, then sprinkle Cajun seasoning and gently press it into the flesh so it adheres.
- Place the fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
- Transfer cooked fish to a plate, flake with a fork, and assemble the tacos with warmed tortillas and toppings.
What type of air fryer was this recipe tested in?
This method was tested in a Cosori 5.8-quart air fryer with a preheat function, which allowed cooking all the fish in one batch in about 8–10 minutes. Small or compact models may require smaller batches or slightly adjusted times and temperatures.
Toppings for fish tacos
- Jalapeño slaw: mix cabbage or broccoli slaw with a creamy jalapeño dressing for a bright, crunchy topping. A citrus slaw or store-bought coleslaw are easy alternatives.
- Pineapple salsa pairs beautifully with the spicy fish and adds a sweet, fresh contrast.
- Classic taco additions: guacamole, sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cilantro, or quick-pickled red onion.
- Optional dips: cashew queso or a smoky chipotle dip make great accompaniments, and air-fryer tortilla chips are a nice starter.
- Cheese is optional—these tacos are dairy-free as written, but grated cheddar, pepper jack, or crumbled feta can be added if desired.
Frequently asked questions
Any white, flaky fish is suitable. Cod, tilapia, mahi mahi, snapper or haddock are all good options.
Pat fish dry, brush with a little oil, sprinkle seasoning on one side and press it in, then repeat on the other side. Cajun seasoning works well, but use any spice mix you enjoy.
For even seasoning coverage, use fillets with the skin removed. You can buy skinless fillets or remove the skin yourself before cooking.
Cook time typically ranges from 8–12 minutes depending on fish thickness and your air fryer model. In testing, ½-inch thick pieces took about 8–10 minutes at 400°F after preheating.
Defrost frozen fish first so oil and seasonings adhere. Pat thawed fish dry to remove excess moisture before seasoning and cooking.
Substitutions and variations
- Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning if you prefer milder flavors, or add cayenne for extra heat.
- Try different seasonings: taco seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, chili-lime, Italian herbs, or simply salt, pepper and garlic.
- For crispy tacos, use an air-fryer panko-breaded cod preparation instead of just seasoned fillets.
Additional recipe tips
- Cut fillets to similar thickness for even cooking and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Cook fish to an internal temperature of 145°F; it should be opaque and flake easily. Avoid overcooking to keep the texture tender.
- This recipe yields about six medium tacos. To make more, double the ingredients and cook in batches.
More air fryer seafood recipes
- Air Fryer Crab Cakes
- Air Fryer Salmon Patties
- Air Fryer Salmon Fillets
- Air Fryer Scallops
- Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp
- Air Fryer Tilapia
If you make these fish tacos, please leave a comment to share how they turned out.
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📖 Recipe
Air Fryer Fish Tacos
Ingredients
- 1 pound cod fillets (or another white fish), about ½-inch thick
- 2 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 6 medium-sized flour tortillas
- Toppings of your choice (slaw, salsa, avocado, etc.)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer if required by your model.
- Cut the fish into 3–4 pieces and pat dry with paper towels. Arrange on a plate or cutting board.
- Brush both sides with oil and coat with Cajun seasoning, pressing it in gently.
- Place fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook time varies with thickness.
- Transfer the fish to a plate and flake with a fork. Warm tortillas, fill with fish and add desired toppings.
Notes
- Tested in a Cosori 5.8-quart air fryer. Smaller models may require batches and time adjustments.
- Keep fillet pieces similar in thickness for even cooking and avoid overcrowding the basket.
- Cook fish to 145°F until opaque and flaky.
Nutrition Facts per Serving
Carbohydrates: 16 g |
Protein: 16 g |
Fat: 6 g
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on ingredients and substitutions.