How to Cook Air Fryer Frozen Fish Fillets: Perfect Results in 15 Minutes

Consistent Results Every Time

Perhaps the most satisfying aspect of cooking frozen fish filets in an air fryer is the consistently excellent results you achieve. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, cooking it evenly and quickly  This circulation creates that perfect combination of a crispy exterior while maintaining a moist, flaky interior .

For optimal texture, the air fryer produces fish that’s crispy on the outside yet remains juicy inside . This consistent cooking method works particularly well with frozen fish because the air fryer’s efficiency allows the fish to defrost and cook through at the same rate the breading crisps up .

The air fryer also maintains the freshness and integrity of the fish’s nutrients, which can be lost through longer cooking methods . This preservation of quality applies to both breaded and non-breaded varieties, giving you versatility with consistently excellent results regardless of the type of frozen fish filets you prefer.

By switching to an air fryer for your frozen fish filets, you’re not just choosing convenience—you’re opting for a healthier, faster, and more reliable cooking method that delivers professional-quality results right in your home kitchen.

Preparing Your Frozen Fish for the Air Fryer

Preparing frozen fish filets for air frying is surprisingly straightforward, with fewer steps than conventional cooking methods. I’ve discovered several key techniques that ensure the best results every time.

Do You Need to Thaw First?

One of the greatest advantages of cooking frozen fish filets in an air fryer is that there’s absolutely no need to thaw them first. In fact, the fish goes directly from freezer to air fryer with excellent results. Essentially, the air fryer allows the fish to defrost and cook simultaneously, creating perfectly crispy exteriors while maintaining moist, flaky interiors.

Contrary to what you might expect, keeping the fish frozen until cooking actually produces better outcomes. The frozen state helps the fish retain moisture throughout the cooking process, resulting in juicier filets. Furthermore, this approach saves considerable time, letting you skip the 10-15 minutes typically needed for thawing in cold water or the hours required for refrigerator thawing.

Removing Excess Ice

When dealing with ice crystals on frozen fish filets, you might initially think removing them would help. However, multiple sources specifically advise against rinsing off ice glaze from frozen fish. This counterintuitive technique is actually supported by evidence – rinsing can result in fish with a waterlogged texture once cooked.

For the best texture, simply place the fish directly into the air fryer basket in its frozen state. The ice naturally melts and evaporates during the cooking process, actually helping to maintain the moisture level within the fish. This hands-off approach not only yields better results but also simplifies your preparation process.

Adding Oil and Seasonings

Prior to cooking, gather these essential materials:

• Your frozen fish filets
• Cooking spray
• Olive oil (or avocado oil for higher heat tolerance)
• Salt and pepper
• Your favorite seasonings
• A brush for applying oil
• A spatula for serving

First, spray the inside of your air fryer basket generously with cooking spray. This crucial step prevents sticking, which is especially important since we’re not thawing the fish first. Without adequate oil, the fish might adhere to the basket during cooking.

Once your basket is prepared, place the fish filets in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. If you have skin-on filets, position them skin-side down. Afterwards, brush the exposed surface with a thin layer of olive oil. The oil begins to freeze slightly when it contacts the frozen fish, creating a tacky surface that helps seasonings adhere better.

Finally, sprinkle salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings over the fish. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper or experiment with garlic powder, paprika, dill, or lemon pepper. The seasoning sticks well to the oil-brushed surface, even without thawing.

Remember not to crowd the air fryer basket – space between pieces allows the hot circulating air to reach all sides of the fish, ensuring even cooking and optimal crispiness. Should you need to cook multiple portions, it’s preferable to work in batches rather than overcrowding.

Step-by-Step Air Fryer Cooking Instructions

Now that your fish is properly prepared, let’s dive into the precise cooking instructions for air fryer frozen fish filets. Following these exact steps ensures perfectly cooked fish every time—crispy outside and flaky inside.

Preheating Your Air Fryer

Preheating is an essential first step when cooking frozen fish filets. This crucial preparation step ensures even cooking from the moment your fish enters the basket.

Most professional chefs recommend preheating your air fryer to 370°F-400°F before cooking ⁴. For optimal results, allow your air fryer to preheat for approximately 10 minutes ². Some models have a dedicated preheat button that simplifies this process ¹.

Even if your air fryer doesn’t have a specific preheat function, simply set the temperature and run it empty for a few minutes. This preliminary step creates that perfect cooking environment for your fish filets.

Setting the Right Temperature

The ideal temperature for cooking frozen fish filets typically falls between 370°F and 400°F. Yet, selecting the exact setting depends on several factors:

For breaded fish filets, 370°F works exceptionally well . This slightly lower temperature prevents the breading from burning before the fish cooks through.

For non-breaded filets, you can use higher temperatures—390°F to 400°F . These higher temperatures help seal in moisture while creating a nice exterior.

Subsequently, if you find your fish needs more crispiness at the end of cooking, you can increase the temperature to 400°F for the final two minutes .

Determining Cooking Time

Cooking times for frozen fish filets generally range from 8-15 minutes, depending primarily on thickness. Generally, follow these guidelines:

1. Thinner filets (like flounder or tilapia): 8-10 minutes total
2. Medium filets (like cod): 11-13 minutes
3. Thicker filets (like halibut): 12-15 minutes

Above all, remember that every air fryer model performs differently. Therefore, the first time you cook frozen fish, check it 2 minutes before the recommended time ends .

For perfectly cooked fish, the internal temperature should reach 145°F . A digital thermometer provides the most accurate reading.

When to Flip Your Fish

Flipping your fish halfway through the cooking process guarantees even cooking on both sides ⁹. For example, if you’re cooking for 12 minutes total, flip at the 6-minute mark.

Yet, fish can be delicate and prone to breaking. Hence, use a non-stick spatula rather than tongs when turning the filets ¹. This gentle approach prevents the fish from falling apart during flipping.

After flipping, this presents the perfect opportunity to add a light spray of oil to the newly exposed side, which helps achieve that golden-brown finish .

Once cooking is complete, allow the fish to rest in the air fryer for about one minute before removing ⁶. This brief resting period helps the fish retain its moisture as the proteins settle.

Different Types of Frozen Fish for Air Frying

The variety of frozen fish filets available for air frying gives you endless meal possibilities with minimal preparation. Selecting the right type can make a significant difference in taste, texture, and cooking requirements.

Breaded vs. Non-Breaded Options

Breaded frozen fish filets provide that satisfying crunch without deep frying. The air fryer excels at creating a crispy exterior while keeping the fish inside moist and flaky. These typically require cooking at 400°F for about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can make your own breading by brushing frozen filets with olive oil and sprinkling with seasoned panko breadcrumbs.

Non-breaded options offer a healthier alternative with fewer calories. These plain filets cook beautifully in the air fryer, developing a nice exterior while maintaining their natural flavor. Although they lack the crispy texture of breaded varieties, non-breaded filets allow you to appreciate the fish’s authentic taste. They typically finish cooking a few minutes faster than their breaded counterparts.

Best Fish Varieties for Air Frying

White fish varieties tend to perform exceptionally well in the air fryer:

• Cod: Offers a mild flavor with a firm, flaky texture
• Tilapia: Cooks quickly and has a delicate flavor profile
• Pollock: Commonly used in breaded products with excellent results
• Haddock: Slightly sweeter than cod with a firm texture
• Halibut: More premium option with a robust texture

Salmon filets have also proven successful in the air fryer, developing a crisp exterior while maintaining their omega-rich moisture inside.

Store Brands That Work Well

Trader Joe’s breaded cod filets consistently receive high ratings for air fryer cooking, featuring sizable portions coated in well-seasoned breadcrumbs that remain flaky rather than spongy. Gorton’s offers several excellent options, including their Beer Battered Crispy Fish Filets, which uniquely maintain actual beer flavor, and their innovative Potato Crunchy Breaded Fish Filets that combine the concept of fish and chips in one bite.

Other reliable brands include Van de Kamps, Mrs. Paul’s, and many grocery store generic options. Costco’s frozen breaded cod filets have likewise earned positive reviews for their air fryer performance. Consequently, you have numerous quality options regardless of your shopping preferences or budget constraints.

How to Tell When Your Fish Filets Are Perfectly Cooked

Determining when air fryer frozen fish filets are perfectly cooked makes the difference between a disappointing meal and a delicious one. Once you master these simple testing methods, you’ll never serve undercooked or dried-out fish again.

Visual Indicators of Doneness

When checking your fish visually, look for these reliable signs:

• Color change – As fish cooks, it transforms from translucent to opaque. Properly cooked fish displays a consistent opaque appearance throughout.
• Interior color – The inside should turn whitish rather than remaining clear or translucent.
• Surface appearance – The exterior should appear golden and slightly firm, yet not excessively browned or hardened.

Visual cues work best with non-breaded filets where you can clearly see the fish’s texture. For breaded varieties, you’ll need to rely on additional testing methods.

Using a Meat Thermometer

For absolute certainty, a meat thermometer provides the most accurate assessment:

According to the FDA, fish is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) ¹⁰. To measure correctly:

1. Insert the thermometer probe into the thickest part of the filet
2. Wait for the reading to stabilize
3. Verify the temperature has reached 145°F

Thermapen ONE and DOT thermometers work exceptionally well with air fryers . Indeed, many cooks routinely use meat thermometers when preparing air fryer fish to eliminate guesswork.

The Fork Test for Flakiness

The fork test remains the most traditional and reliable method for checking fish doneness:

1. Insert the tines of a fork into the thickest portion at a 45-degree angle
2. Gently twist the fork and pull upward
3. Observe how the fish responds

Perfectly cooked fish will flake easily with minimal resistance . The flakes should separate cleanly along natural seams without pushing or tugging. Undercooked fish, conversely, appears translucent and resists flaking.

This test works wonderfully for all varieties of fish filets, regardless of breading. Remember that fish continues cooking briefly after removal from heat, so perform your tests just before you expect it to be done.

Conclusion

Air fryer frozen fish filets offer a perfect solution for quick, healthy meals without compromising taste or quality. The ability to cook directly from frozen saves precious time, while the air fryer’s precise temperature control ensures restaurant-quality results right at home.

After testing countless frozen fish varieties and methods, I can confidently say that air fryer cooking stands out as the most reliable approach. The consistent results – crispy exterior and flaky interior – make this method particularly appealing for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without extensive preparation.

Remember these key points for success: preheat your air fryer properly, maintain the recommended temperature between 370°F and 400°F, and check doneness using either a meat thermometer or the fork test. Master these simple techniques, and you’ll serve perfectly cooked fish filets every time.

FAQs

Q1. Can I cook frozen fish filets in an air fryer without thawing them first? Yes, you can cook frozen fish filets directly in the air fryer without thawing. This method actually produces better results, as it helps the fish retain moisture during cooking and saves time.

Q2. What temperature should I set my air fryer to for cooking frozen fish filets? The ideal temperature for cooking frozen fish filets in an air fryer is between 370°F and 400°F. For breaded filets, use 370°F, and for non-breaded filets, you can go up to 390°F-400°F.

Q3. How long does it take to cook frozen fish filets in an air fryer? Cooking times for frozen fish filets in an air fryer typically range from 8 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the filet. Thinner filets like tilapia may take 8-10 minutes, while thicker ones like halibut could take 12-15 minutes.

Q4. How can I tell if my air-fried fish filet is fully cooked? You can determine if your fish is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature has reached 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, you can use the fork test – if the fish flakes easily with a fork, it’s done.

Q5. Are there any health benefits to cooking fish in an air fryer compared to deep frying? Yes, cooking fish in an air fryer offers significant health benefits compared to deep frying. It reduces calorie intake by 70% to 80%, uses less oil, and lowers the formation of harmful compounds like acrylamide. Air frying also helps retain more of the fish’s natural nutrients.