Air Fryer Crispy Fish Sandwiches — Are you looking for a tasty, easy way to enjoy items from the sea? Look no further than your air fryer! This kitchen appliance can easily turn humble fish filets into delicious meals in minutes.

Air Fryer Crispy Fish Sandwiches
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Forget long waits and soggy results—air fryers are the new affordable shortcut to creating crispy fish sandwiches that rival some of the best eateries around town. Serve with my recipe for homemade tartar sauce, and you will have an amazing lunch or dinner!

The Best Crispy Fish Sandwich

The Best Crispy Fish Sandwich is a favorite among seafood lovers and for a good reason. This delicious sandwich features a crunchy and flavorful fried fish fillet, topped with lettuce, tomato, onions, and tartar sauce and served on a toasted bun. 

This classic dish is easy to prepare at home and can be customized in many ways. For a lighter and healthier version, we air-fried it. This is a family favorite, and you can change the type of fish to whatever you have on hand. You can use any type of firm white fish, such as cod or halibut – make sure to season it generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices before cooking. 

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Crispy Fish Sandwiches

Fish sandwiches are one of the most popular lunch and dinner items, but if you’re looking for a delicious fish sandwich with a deliciously crispy exterior, then an air fryer is the way to go. Crispy on the outside yet tender in the center, air fryer fish sandwiches make for an incredibly tasty meal any night of the week. All you need are some simple ingredients to create this flavorful meal:

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Crispy Fish Sandwiches

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed instructions are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page, as well as the nutritional information. 

  • Fish: Use firm, mild white fish such as cod fillets, haddock, or halibut.
  • Egg: Use a large, room-temperature egg
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Use regular bread crumbs or panko bread crumbs. 
  • Seasonings and Spices: Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, and Old Bay Seasoning
  • Serving: Hamburger Roll, Cheese Slices, Tomatoes, Lettuce, Red Onions, Lemon Slices, Tartar Sauce, etc.

How To Make A Great Fish Sandwich In Air Fryer

Are you looking for a quick and easy way to make a delicious fish sandwich at home? Look no further because, with an air fryer, you can make the perfect fish sandwich in minutes! Forget fighting with hot oils and pans – this method is super simple – pop your ingredients into the air fryer and let it do the work for you.

Get everything prepped in 10 minutes or less, then relax as your tasty meal comes together without fuss or mess. Below, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to cook up a great fish sandwich using an air fryer that’s sure to become one of your go-to favorites. So let’s get started!

How To Make A Great Fish Sandwich In Air Fryer

Step One: Prepare Your Dredging Stations

Add the breadcrumbs (panko) and Old Bay Seasoning to a shallow dish. In another bowl, add your egg, and beat the egg with a fork.

Crispy fish sandwich in air fryer

Step Two: Batter The Fish

Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the fish. Dip your fish into the egg on both sides and then dip it into the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat with the remaining fish. 

Crispy fish sandwich in air fryer

 Step Three: Air Fry The Fish

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, or line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. As you bread your fish, place them into the greased basket in a single layer. Spray the breaded fish with cooking spray, or brush with olive oil, which will help crisp the breadcrumbs up.

Set the temperature to 350 degrees F, air fryer setting, set the cooking time for 12-15 minutes, flip the fish halfway, and then respray the fish with cooking spray.

Check the internal temperature before removing the fish, which should have a 145 degrees F reading. Remove the fish when it’s fully cooked. (Cooking times are to depend on what air fryer you own and how thick your fish is)

Crispy fish sandwich in air fryer

Step Four: Toast Your Hamburger Rolls

Add your hamburger rolls to the air fryer basket, and air fry for 2-3 minutes at 320 degrees F; remove once toasted.

Step Five: Assemble Your Fish Sandwich

Assemble the sandwich, place the tartar sauce on the bottom bun’s bottom, then place the Crispy Fish Fillet on top, add a piece of American Cheese, and cover with the top bun. If you want to melt your cheese, add the sandwich back into the air fryer and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sandwich has melted cheese.

Crispy fish sandwich in air fryer

Tips For Cooking Breaded Fish In Air Fryer

Cooking breaded fish in an air fryer is a great way to achieve a crispy, delicious result without excessive oil. Here are some tips to help you cook perfect breaded fish in your air fryer:

  • Preheat the air fryer: Preheating your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the breaded fish will ensure it cooks evenly and turns crispy.
  • Use a light oil coating: While you don’t need as much oil as you would for traditional frying, a light oil coating will help the breading stick and create a crispy texture.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are light and airy and help create a crunchy crust on your breaded fish. Mix spices or herbs with your panko breadcrumbs for even more flavor before breading your fish.
  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Leave enough space between each piece of breaded fish in the basket to allow for even cooking and crispy results. It’s better to cook in batches than to overcrowd the basket.
  • Flip the fish halfway through: Flipping the breaded fish halfway through cooking will ensure that both sides cook evenly and turn out crispy.
  • Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the fish has reached 145°F. This will ensure that the fish is cooked through and safe to eat.
  • Serve immediately: For the crispiest results, serve the breaded fish immediately after cooking. If you need to hold it briefly, place it on a wire rack in a warm oven to keep it crispy.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly crispy and delicious breaded fish in your air fryer every time!

Crispy air fryer fish

What Is The Best Fish For Fish Sandwiches

Fish sandwiches are a classic favorite among seafood lovers. But what is the best fish for them? The answer depends on your tastes, but here are a few top contenders to help you create an amazing sandwich.

  • Tilapia: This mild-tasting freshwater fish is readily available and is one of the most popular for sandwiches. It has a light, flaky texture and can be cooked in various ways, making it an excellent choice for novice and experienced cooks alike.
  • Cod: A mild fish, cod is perfect for those traditional battered fish sandwiches that are enjoyed all over the world. Its firm texture holds up well in frying, making it an excellent choice for fish and chips.
  • Salmon: This popular fish has become an increasingly popular choice among many sandwich makers due to its rich flavor and health benefits. It is also high in Omega-3 fatty acids, providing extra nutrition to your meal.
  • Tuna: A saltwater fish, tuna is ideal for sandwiches thanks to its firm flesh and mild flavor. It can be cooked either canned or fresh for varying intensity levels, making it an excellent choice for those looking for something with more substance than other white fish varieties.

No matter which type of fish you choose, a delicious sandwich can be created with almost any variety. The key is to find the one that best suits your taste and make sure to cook it properly for optimal results.

Best Toppings For Fish Sandwiches

Fish sandwiches are a delicious and versatile meal, and there are many toppings you can use to make them even more flavorful and satisfying. Here are some of the best toppings for fish sandwiches:

  • Tartar sauce: Tartar sauce is a classic condiment for fish sandwiches and for a good reason. Its creamy and tangy tartar sauce and pairs perfectly with the flavor of the fish.
  • Lettuce and tomato: Adding lettuce and tomato to your fish sandwich will give it a fresh, crisp texture and a pop of color. You can also use other greens like arugula or spinach for added flavor.
  • Pickles: Pickles add a zesty, tangy flavor to fish sandwiches and can help cut through the richness of the fish.
  • Red onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a bit of crunch and a mild, sweet flavor to your fish sandwich.
  • Coleslaw: Coleslaw is another classic accompaniment to fish sandwiches. It’s creamy and crunchy, adding some sweetness to the dish.
  • Avocado: Sliced avocado adds a creamy, buttery flavor and texture to your fish sandwich, as well as some healthy fats.
  • Sriracha mayo: If you like a bit of spice, add some sriracha to your mayo for a kick of flavor that pairs perfectly with fish.
  • Cheese: Add cheddar or Swiss cheese to your fish sandwich for some melty, gooey goodness if you’re a cheese lover.

By experimenting with different toppings, you can create a fish sandwich that’s tailored to your taste buds and preferences. Try mixing and matching different ingredients until you find your perfect combination!

fish sandwich on plate

What To Serve With Fish Sandwiches

Fish sandwiches are a tasty and satisfying meal on their own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal or add some variety, here are some great choices for what to serve with them:

  • Air Fryer French fries: French fries are a classic accompaniment to any sandwich, including fish sandwiches. They’re crispy and salty, and go perfectly with the rich flavor of the fish.
  • Air fryer Sweet potato fries: For a healthier twist on French fries, try serving your fish sandwiches with sweet potato fries. They’re still crispy and delicious but have a sweeter flavor and are packed with nutrients.
  • Coleslaw: Coleslaw is a refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with fish sandwiches. Its creamy, tangy flavor and crunchy texture add variety to the meal.
  • Salad: If you want a lighter side dish, serve your fish sandwiches with a fresh garden salad.
  • Air Fryer Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots are a flavorful and healthy side dish that complements the fish’s flavor.
  • Corn on the cob: Corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish that pairs well with fish sandwiches. It’s sweet and juicy and adds color and variety to the meal.
  • Air Fryer Baked beans: Baked beans are a hearty, filling side dish that goes well with fish sandwiches. They’re rich, flavorful, and packed with protein.

Pairing your fish sandwiches with a tasty side dish can make the meal even more satisfying and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for something light and healthy or hearty and filling, plenty of options exist!

How To Store Leftover Fish Sandwiches

If you have leftover fish sandwiches, storing them properly is important to ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat. Here are some tips for storing leftover fish sandwiches:

  • Storing: Let them cool: Before storing your leftover fish sandwiches, cool them to room temperature. This will help prevent condensation from forming inside the container and making the bread soggy. Wrap them in foil or plastic wrap: Wrap each sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap to prevent air from drying the bread. If you’re using plastic wrap, ensure it’s microwave-safe if you plan to reheat the sandwich later.
  • Refrigerate promptly: Put the container or bag of sandwiches in the refrigerator as soon as possible after wrapping them. Fish is a perishable food, so keeping it at a safe temperature is important to prevent bacterial growth.

By following these tips, you can store and reheat your leftover fish sandwiches safely and effectively and enjoy them for another meal!

Air Fryer Crispy Fish Sandwiches

How To Reheat Fish Sandwiches In Air Fryer

Reheating fish sandwiches in an air fryer is a great way to achieve a crispy and warm result that’s almost as good as the original. Here are some steps to follow for reheating your fish sandwich in an air fryer:

  • Preheat your air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Remove the sandwich from the refrigerator: Remove the sandwich from the refrigerator and remove any wrapping or foil.
  • Spray the basket with cooking spray: Lightly spray the air fryer basket to prevent the sandwich from sticking. Place the sandwich in the air fryer: Place the sandwich in the basket, ensuring it’s not touching the sides or other items.
  • Reheat for 4-5 minutes: Depending on the size and thickness of the sandwich. Check the sandwich halfway through the cooking time to ensure it’s not getting too crispy or burnt.
  • Once the sandwich is heated, please remove it from the air fryer and enjoy it immediately.

More Air Fryer Recipes

Air Fryer Crispy Fish Sandwiches

Air Fryer Crispy Fish Sandwiches

3.34 from 3 votes
Author: ForkToSpoon.com
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2 Servings

Description

Air Fryer Crispy Fish Sandwiches — Are you looking for a tasty, easy way to enjoy items from the sea? Look no further than your air fryer! This kitchen appliance can easily turn humble fish filets into delicious meals in minutes.

Ingredients 

  • 2 6 ounces white fish fillets
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 teaspoons Old bay seasoning
  • 2 slices American cheese, optional
  • 2 hamburger buns
  • 2 teaspoons tartar sauce, optional

Instructions

  • Add the breadcrumbs (panko) and Old Bay Seasoning to a shallow dish. In another bowl, add your egg, and beat the egg with a fork.
  • Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the fish. Dip your fish into the egg on both sides and then dip it into the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat with the remaining fish. 
  • Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, or line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. As you bread your fish, place them into the greased basket in a single layer. Spray the breaded fish with cooking spray, or brush with olive oil, which will help crisp the breadcrumbs up.
  • Set the temperature to 350 degrees F, air fryer setting, set the cooking time for 12-15 minutes, flip the fish halfway, and then respray the fish with cooking spray.
  • Check the internal temperature before removing the fish, which should have a 145 degrees F reading. Remove the fish when it’s fully cooked. (Cooking times are to depend on what air fryer you own and how thick your fish is)
  • Add your hamburger rolls to the air fryer basket, and air fry for 2-3 minutes at 320 degrees F; remove once toasted.
  • Assemble the sandwich, place the tartar sauce on the bottom bun's bottom, then place the Crispy Fish Fillet on top, add a piece of American Cheese, and cover with the top bun. If you want to melt your cheese, add the sandwich back into the air fryer and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sandwich has melted cheese.
  • Plate, serve, and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 311kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 14gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 115mgSodium: 743mgPotassium: 164mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 395IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 344mgIron: 3mg

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