Air Fryer Fish and Chips – The Best 9-Step Crispy Recipe

Air fryer fish and chips are the perfect answer when you’re craving a crispy, satisfying meal without the mess and calories of deep-frying. This healthier take on the British classic uses minimal oil while delivering maximum flavor, crunch, and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just want a quick weeknight treat, this guide shows you how to master the art of air-frying fish and fries to golden perfection.

Inside, you’ll discover everything you need—from choosing the best fish and potatoes, to step-by-step cooking methods, seasoning tricks, common mistakes to avoid, and even gluten-free variations. We’ll also answer the most common questions about cooking frozen options, getting that restaurant-style crispy batter, and serving ideas that turn this dish into a complete meal.

Now, let’s get into why air fryer fish and chips are quickly becoming a staple in modern kitchens across America.

Why Air Fryer Fish and Chips is the Ultimate Comfort Food Makeover

What Makes This Dish a Healthier Alternative to Deep-Fried Fish and Chips

Traditionally, air fryer fish and chips are seen as the lighter answer to a deep-fried favorite. Fish and chips are often cooked in oil, absorbing hundreds of calories in the process. Air frying delivers the same golden crunch and juicy center—without the excess oil, slashing fat content by as much as 75%. That means less guilt and more bites! You’re cooking with a whirlwind of hot air instead of dunking your food in greasy oil baths. This results in fewer saturated fats and cholesterol, making it a smart swap for health-conscious food lovers.

Also, fewer oils mean no greasy kitchen cleanup. Your air fryer basket is way easier to wash than a pot full of leftover oil, which is one of the top reasons home cooks are switching to air fryer fish and chips regularly.

Here’s a quick comparison table:

Air Fryer vs Deep Fryer: Comparing Texture, Taste, and Nutrition

One of the most common questions is: Can air fryer fish really match that pub-style crunch? Absolutely. The key lies in the breading or batter. Air fryers deliver an incredible crispy texture when you use panko, cornflakes, or even a light batter, and spray oil evenly.

In blind taste tests, many people couldn’t even tell the difference—and some preferred the lighter, flakier version that comes from the air fryer. Nutrition-wise, the air fryer wins hands down. You still get the same bold, savory flavor, especially when seasoning is done right.

Next up, we’ll talk about how to pick the best fish and potatoes to make your air fryer fish and chips shine every time.

Air Fryer Fish and Chips – The Best 9-Step Crispy Recipe

Recipe by LeoCourse: fish recipesCuisine: British-American FusionDifficulty: Easy

Servings

2

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

A healthier take on the classic British dish! These air fryer fish and chips come out crispy, flaky, and golden—without the grease. Quick to prep, fun to cook, and easy to customize for any dietary need.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless cod fillets

• 2 large russet potatoes

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 eggs, beaten

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

• Olive oil spray

• Lemon wedges and tartar sauce (optional for serving)

Directions

• Prep the potatoes: Peel (optional), cut into ½” fries, and soak in cold water for 30 minutes. Pat dry.
• Season and bread the fish: Pat fish dry. Coat with flour mix (flour + paprika + garlic powder + salt & pepper), dip in egg wash, then press into panko.
• Air fry the chips: Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Toss fries with a little oil and seasoning. Cook for 18–22 minutes, shaking halfway.
• Air fry the fish: Increase temp to 400°F. Add breaded fish. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray with oil for crispiness.
• Serve: Plate hot with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and a side of coleslaw or mushy peas.

Notes

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Replace russet potatoes with turnips for a low-carb option.
• Fish is done when internal temperature reaches 145°F and flakes easily.
• Don’t overcrowd your air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed.
• Frozen fish? Add 2 extra minutes of cook time.

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Fish and Chips

Best Fish for Air Frying: Cod, Haddock, or Tilapia?

When it comes to making truly mouthwatering air fryer fish and chips, choosing the right type of fish is half the battle. You need a white fish that’s mild, flaky, and firm enough to hold up during cooking. The most popular options are:

• Cod – This is the classic choice. It has a clean flavor, large flakes, and holds batter well. It’s what you’ll find in most traditional UK fish shops.
• Haddock – Slightly sweeter than cod and just as flaky, haddock is another fantastic pick.
• Tilapia – An eco-friendly, budget-conscious option, tilapia offers a delicate taste and is easy to find year-round. However, it’s slightly thinner, so watch your cook times.
• Pollock or Whiting – Budget-friendly options that still give a satisfying result in the air fryer.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Always opt for fresh or properly thawed fillets to avoid a soggy finish. If you’re using frozen fish, pat it dry before seasoning or breading.

Selecting the Perfect Potatoes: Russet, Yukon Gold & Cutting Techniques

The “chips” part of air fryer fish and chips deserves just as much love as the fish. The goal? Perfectly crisp on the outside, irresistibly light and airy within.

Your top potato choices are:

• Russet Potatoes – High in starch and low in moisture, they’re the best for crispy fries.
• Yukon Gold – Creamier and richer in flavor, but they don’t get quite as crispy. Great for a softer fry.
• Red Potatoes – Not ideal for chips due to their waxy texture, but still usable in a pinch.

Once you’ve chosen your potato, the way you cut and prep it matters just as much:

• Cut evenly: Stick to ¼” or ½” thickness for even cooking.
• Soak in cold water: At least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps the chips crisp up.
• Dry thoroughly: Grab a fresh kitchen towel or some paper towels to keep things neat and dry. Wet potatoes = soggy chips.
• Toss in a little oil and seasoning: Paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, or even cayenne for a kick.

If you’re using frozen fries, make sure they’re pre-cooked (par-fried) and adjust the timing since they often cook faster than raw potatoes.

Prepping the Fish – Marinating, Seasoning & Breading

Secrets to a Flavorful Marinade and Dry Brine

Before your fish even touches the air fryer basket, flavor starts with a good marinade—or, in some cases, a dry brine. Both methods help keep your fish juicy and flavorful while enhancing that golden crust.

Dry Brine (Recommended for Air Frying):
A dry brine is super simple and works especially well for cod or haddock.

• Pat the fish dry.
• Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a hint of paprika.
• Let it sit uncovered in the fridge for 15–30 minutes. This helps release extra moisture and gives the fillet a firmer, more satisfying texture.

This simple technique is a game-changer if you’re aiming for restaurant-style air fryer fish and chips at home—crispy outside, flaky inside, and loaded with flavor.

Optional Wet Marinade (if you want extra bold flavor):
Mix lemon juice, a little olive oil, and your favorite seasonings like dill, Old Bay, or Cajun spice. Let the fish soak for 10–15 minutes, then pat dry before breading.

Just remember, excess moisture can sabotage your coating. A good pat-down ensures your air fryer fish and chips will brown beautifully.

Avoid overly wet marinades right before breading. Wet fish = soggy coating in the air fryer.

How to Make Crispy Battered Fish in the Air Fryer

The key to crispy air fryer fish and chips lies in the coating. Unlike deep frying, where a thick batter clings naturally, you’ll need a lighter, more structured breading for air frying success.

1. Three-Layer Coating System:

• First: Dip the fish in seasoned flour (flour + paprika + garlic powder).
• Second: Coat in an egg wash made from one beaten egg mixed with a touch of milk or water.
• Third: Press into panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Add seasoning here too for extra flavor.

This gives your fish that iconic crunch without the need for deep oil. It’s the foundation for top-notch air fryer fish and chips every time.

2. Optional Batter Hack:

Want a classic battered look? Whisk together:

• ½ cup flour
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• ½ tsp baking powder
• Seasoning to taste

Gradually mix in water or sparkling water until the batter is smooth, light, and easily pourable.

Coat the fish, place it on parchment paper or foil (lightly oiled), and air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

For a true air fryer fish and chips texture, make sure the batter is not too thick or heavy. Lighter equals crispier.

3. Spray Oil = Crispy Magic:

Always spray the coated fish lightly with cooking spray. This promotes golden browning and recreates that crave-worthy deep-fried crunch. No spray = dry patches.

For best results, lightly coat your air fryer basket too—this helps prevent sticking and enhances the finish of your air fryer fish and chips, giving you that golden crunch without the grease.

Preparing the Chips for Air Frying

How to Cut, Soak & Season Chips for Perfect Crispiness

In air fryer fish and chips, the crispy “chips” are just as much the star as the fish itself. To get that signature pub-style fry—crispy outside, soft inside—you need the right prep.

Here’s a foolproof process:

1. Cutting Matters:

Slice your potatoes into even sticks, roughly ¼ to ½ inch wide, for consistent cooking and crispiness. Chunkier fries need more time to cook but reward you with extra-soft, pillowy insides.

2. Soak to Remove Starch:

Soaking is a must. Place the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours is better). This helps remove surface starch that can make fries stick together or turn gummy.

3. Dry Thoroughly:

After soaking, drain and pat dry completely with paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. Moisture is the arch-nemesis of crispiness when it comes to air frying.

4. Season Before or After:

Toss your dry fries with 1–2 teaspoons of olive oil, salt, and any seasonings you like—smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or a little cayenne for heat.

Want them extra crunchy? Add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch to the seasoning mix.

Homemade Fries vs Frozen Chips: Which Works Better in the Air Fryer?

Both work well, but there are pros and cons depending on your needs.

Homemade Fries:

• Pros: Fully customizable, healthier, better texture if prepped correctly.
• Cons: Require more prep time (cutting, soaking, drying).

Frozen Chips:

• Pros: Super convenient—just toss them in and cook.
• Cons: Typically flash-fried in oil and loaded with sodium. Texture can vary depending on brand.

If you’re making a complete air fryer fish and chips dinner, timing matters. Start the fries first, as they typically take longer to cook than the fish. You can cook them separately or together, depending on your air fryer size.

Here’s a quick air fryer timing chart:

Whether you go homemade or frozen, don’t overcrowd the basket—space equals crispness. You can always batch cook and keep finished fries warm in the oven at 200°F.

Cooking Instructions – Perfect Timing and Temperature Settings

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Fish and Chips in the Air Fryer

Making air fryer fish and chips isn’t complicated, but timing and order matter. Follow this easy step-by-step guide to get your fish flaky and your fries crispy—all without using a drop of deep fryer oil.

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer at 400°F for 3 to 5 minutes to get it nice and hot. A hot start gives you a better crisp and reduces cooking time. This step is essential to the perfect batch of air fryer fish and chips.

2. Start with the Chips

Place seasoned fries (homemade or frozen) in the basket. Make sure they’re in a single layer for even air circulation. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.

If you’re using homemade fries, start with 375°F and extend cooking time to 18–22 minutes.

3. Add the Fish

Once fries are halfway done or close to finished, gently add your breaded or battered fish fillets. Keep space between each piece so air can circulate and crisp the coating.

• Cook Temperature: 400°F
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Flip halfway through for even browning

Spray both sides of the fish with a light coat of oil before cooking for best results. Doing this enhances the golden, crunchy texture people expect from air fryer fish and chips.

4. Batch Cooking? Keep It Warm

If your air fryer can’t handle everything at once, cook in batches. Place cooked items on a baking tray in a 200°F oven to keep warm while the next batch finishes. That way, both the fish and chips come out hot and crisp, ready to enjoy at the same time.

How Long to Cook Frozen Fish and Chips in the Air Fryer

No time to prep? Frozen fish and fries can be just as tasty—just tweak the cooking time to match. You can still make delicious air fryer fish and chips without thawing a thing.

Frozen Fish Fillets:

• Cook Temp: 400°F
• Cook Time: 12–14 minutes
• Flip halfway and check for doneness
• Internal temperature should reach 145°F

Frozen Chips (thick-cut or steak fries):

• Cook Temp: 400°F
• Cook Time: 14–18 minutes
• Shake halfway for even crisping

Here’s a quick air fryer timing chart:

You’ll know your air fryer fish and chips are done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and the chips are golden brown and crisp. Nothing beats the satisfaction of crispy fries paired with tender, golden fish cooked right in your kitchen.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you perfect every batch of air fryer fish and chips with confidence.

Top Pitfalls to Dodge When Cooking Air Fryer Fish and Chips

Why Fish Turns Out Soggy: Fixing Common Air Fryer Errors

Soggy fish is one of the most disappointing outcomes when making air fryer fish and chips, but it’s almost always preventable. The main culprit? Excess moisture.

Here’s how to fix it:

• Pat the fish completely dry before seasoning or breading.
• If using frozen fish, thaw it fully and drain any water that releases.
• Avoid over-marinating or using a wet batter without proper air circulation.
• Don’t forget to spray the breading with oil. This mimics the crisping effect of deep-frying.

Another issue? Too low a temperature. If the air fryer is set below 375°F, you won’t get that golden crunch you’re aiming for. Always aim for 375–400°F for fish.

And yes—overcrowding the basket traps steam. Give the fish and fries room to breathe, or moisture builds up and ruins the crisp.

Packed Baskets Lead to Uneven Results: Tips to Ensure Even Air Frying

Trying to save time by throwing in too much at once? That’s a surefire way to mess up your air fryer fish and chips.

If your food overlaps, the hot air gets blocked—leading to uneven cooking and less crispiness:

• Uneven cooking
• Pale, limp coating
• Undercooked centers

Here’s how to fix it:

• Cook in batches. It’s faster than you think, and your results will be way better.
• For larger air fryers, use a rack insert to stack without blocking airflow.
• Shake the fries or flip the fish halfway through to avoid hot spots and sticking.

It’s tempting to cram it all in, especially if you’re feeding a crowd—but resist. The crisp is worth the wait.

Even simple mistakes can derail the experience. But once you know what to avoid, making incredible air fryer fish and chips becomes second nature.

Delicious Sides and Sauces to Serve with Fish and Chips

Homemade Tartar Sauce, Garlic Aioli, and Other Dip Options

What elevates air fryer fish and chips from great to unforgettable? The right sauces. A crispy piece of fish almost begs for a bold, tangy dip—and we’re not just talking about ketchup.

Here are the top dipping sauces to try:

1. Classic Tartar Sauce

A must-have! Combine mayo with diced pickles or relish, a squeeze of lemon, briny capers, and a hint of dill for a zesty blend. It’s creamy, zesty, and the perfect companion for crispy fish.

2. Garlic Aioli

For a richer flavor, blend mayo with roasted garlic, lemon, and olive oil. This silky sauce pairs beautifully with both fish and chips.

3. Spicy Mayo

Kick it up a notch with sriracha, chili powder, or smoked paprika added to mayo. It delivers a bold heat that enhances the crunch of your air-fried fish and chips beautifully.

4. Malt Vinegar & Lemon Wedges

Keep it traditional with a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon. It brightens every bite, especially when served with thick chips.

5. Curry Sauce or Remoulade

For a twist on the traditional, dip your fish into a warm curry sauce or a creamy Cajun remoulade. Great for themed nights or guests who love bold flavors.

Best Side Dishes: Mushy Peas, Coleslaw, and Pickled Onions

No air fryer fish and chips meal is complete without some satisfying sides—and there’s no need to stick to just fries.

Here are some classic and creative ideas:

1. Mushy Peas

A UK staple, mushy peas are made from marrowfat peas, a touch of mint, and butter. They’re soft, savory, and balance out the crispness of the fish.

2. Coleslaw

A crisp slaw adds a refreshing, creamy balance to the warmth and crunch of your main dish. Go for a traditional creamy mayo mix or switch it up with a zesty vinegar and mustard twist.

3. Pickled Onions or Gherkins

Sharp, briny pickled veggies add a punch of flavor and cut through the richness of fried food. Serve chilled.

4. Baked Beans or Corn on the Cob

For a comforting, Southern-style twist, pair your fish and chips with smoky baked beans or sweet, buttery corn.

5. Dinner Rolls or Garlic Bread

Yes, carbs on carbs—but when done right, it works. Let them swipe up every bit of sauce for a deliciously satisfying finale.

The key is to keep your sides balanced—something creamy, something tangy, and something a little hearty. With the right combo, air fryer fish and chips becomes a complete and satisfying meal for any night of the week.

Storage, Reheating, and Meal Prep Tips

How to Store Leftover Fish and Chips Without Losing Crunch

If you’ve made a big batch of air fryer fish and chips, don’t worry—leftovers can still taste amazing with proper storage. But storing them incorrectly is the fastest way to lose all that crisp.

Follow these steps:

1. Cool Completely First

Let your fish and chips come to room temperature before storing. Trapping steam in a container causes sogginess.

2. Use Paper Towels

Place a paper towel at the bottom of your container to soak up any leftover moisture and keep things crisp. If stacking, add a layer of parchment or paper in between to keep things crisp and separate.

3. Airtight = Yes, But Not Tight

Opt for an airtight container with some ventilation—avoid sealing it too snugly to prevent sogginess. A little airflow helps retain crispness.

4. Fridge Storage Time:

• Fish: Up to 2 days
• Chips: Best within 24 hours

Reheating Fish in the Air Fryer Without Drying It Out

Reheating air fryer fish and chips is easy, but you’ve got to be strategic or the fish dries out and the fries turn limp.

Here’s the foolproof method:

For Fish:

• Preheat air fryer to 350°F
• Place fish fillets in a single layer
• Heat for 4–6 minutes, flipping once
• Spray lightly with oil if it looks dry

For Fries:

• Preheat to 375°F
• Reheat for 5–8 minutes, shaking halfway through

Avoid microwaving. While convenient, it destroys the texture you worked so hard to achieve. Warming them up in the air fryer brings back that fresh-from-the-fryer crunch with impressive accuracy.

Pro Tips for Meal Prepping Fish and Chips

Yes, you can meal prep air fryer fish and chips—and still keep the texture and flavor.

1. Pre-Coat and Freeze the Fish

Bread or batter your raw fish, then freeze individually on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. No sticking, no mess.

2. Pre-Cut and Soak Potatoes

Cut your fries and soak them in water overnight. Store in the fridge in a sealed container, then drain and dry before cooking.

3. Label and Portion Ahead

Portion fish and chips into meal-prep containers with sauces and sides separated. This makes weeknight dinners faster and tastier.

With these tips, your next batch of air fryer fish and chips can be as easy as heat and eat—with no soggy surprises.

Nutritional Info and Dietary Variations for Every Lifestyle

Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, and Dairy-Free Options

One of the greatest benefits of making air fryer fish and chips at home is that you can customize it to fit almost any diet. Whether you’re watching your carbs, avoiding gluten, or skipping dairy, there are easy swaps to make this meal work for you.

Low-Carb Version:

• Swap out traditional breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• Instead of potatoes, use turnip fries, rutabaga fries, or zucchini spears.
• Air fry at the same temperatures, just reduce time slightly for softer vegetables.

Gluten-Free Version:

• Use gluten-free panko or cornflake crumbs for the coating.
• For batter, choose gluten-free flour blends made from rice, chickpea, or tapioca flour.
• Always double-check frozen fish or fries for hidden wheat-based additives.

Dairy-Free Version:

• Avoid batters using milk; substitute with unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or oat).
• For sauces, use dairy-free mayo and dips made with coconut yogurt or cashew bases.

These changes allow you to enjoy a full plate of air fryer fish and chips without sacrificing texture or taste.

Caloric Breakdown and Macro Counts for Air Fryer Fish and Chips

Cooking at home also makes it easier to manage your macros and nutrition. Here’s a general breakdown per serving, assuming 1 piece of breaded cod and 1 cup of air-fried potato fries:

These numbers will vary depending on the oil spray used, thickness of your coating, and portion sizes. To lower fat, use less oil spray or skip sauces. To reduce sodium, choose no-salt seasoning blends and skip salted fries.

For fitness-focused eaters, air fryer fish and chips can be a well-balanced meal. The fish brings lean protein, while the fries (especially if made from sweet potatoes or turnips) add fiber and complex carbs.

Looking to boost nutrition? Serve it with a side of steamed greens or a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a delicious, healthier version of a classic comfort food, air fryer fish and chips is the answer. It’s fast, simple, and offers all the flavor and crunch without the grease. With the right fish, properly prepped potatoes, and a few expert tricks, anyone can make this dish like a pro—no pub visit required.

Whether you’re going for traditional cod and chunky fries or gluten-free, low-carb alternatives, air frying opens up new possibilities for customization, convenience, and guilt-free indulgence.

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