Air Fryer Fish and Chips — Calling all fish and chip lovers!  Tired of greasy takeout or complicated oven recipes?  

Then grab your air fryer and dive into perfectly crispy fish and fluffy chips, all made in the comfort of your kitchen!

_Air Fryer Fish and Chips
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Dive into a classic British pub favorite reimagined for the modern kitchen with Air Fryer Fish and Chips. This beloved dish brings the crispy, golden deliciousness of perfectly cooked fish and potatoes right to your table, minus the deep frying. Using an air fryer makes this meal healthier by significantly reducing oil usage.

It ensures a quick and easy cooking process without compromising the crunch and flavor that make Fish and Chips irresistible.

Ideal for a comforting dinner, a casual weekend lunch, or whenever the craving for this classic dish strikes, Air Fryer Fish and Chips promises all the satisfaction with a fraction of the calories. Enjoy a guilt-free version of this timeless meal that will become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

air fryer fish and chips

Air Fryer Fish and Chips

Here’s what awaits you in this air fryer revolution:

  • Golden Perfection: Say goodbye to soggy fish and limp chips! The air fryer delivers crispness, tenderness, and juiciness on the inside, perfect for both elements.
  • Effortless Cooking: Ditch the mess and stress of deep-frying. This simple and fuss-free recipe gives you more time to relax or tackle other tasks.
  • Customizable Fun: Want a spicy kick to your fish? Go for it! ️ Feeling cheesy? Load it up!  This recipe is your blank canvas for flavor exploration.
  • Healthier Indulgence: The air fryer uses less oil than traditional methods, making your fish and chips a guilt-free indulgence.
  • Ready to experience the magic? This intro post is just the beginning! Stay tuned for the full recipe, complete with:
  • Easy-to-follow instructions for both the fish and the chips.
  • Pro tips and tricks for guaranteed crispy perfection.
  • Flavor variations to satisfy every taste bud.

Craving seafood? You aren’t alone! Be sure to try our Air Fryer Tilapia Tacos, Air Fryer Miso Salmon, Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets, and Air Fryer Tuna Melt Wrap.

Air-Fried Fish And Chips

Why You Will Love Air-Fried Fish And Chips

Fish and chips are a classic comfort food beloved by many. But traditional frying often leaves us drowning in grease and guilt. Enter the Air Fryer Fish & Chips, a game-changer that delivers all the crispy, flavorful goodness without the mess and extra calories!

Here’s why you’ll love this air-fried twist:

  • Crispy Perfection, No Guilt: Skip the deep fryer! The air fryer’s magic hot air creates a light, golden crunch on the fish and chips without the oil overload. Enjoy the satisfying texture without the greasy aftertaste.
  • Faster & Easier Than Ever: Ditch the preheating and lengthy frying process. Air-frying gets you crispy fish and chips in record time, perfect for busy weeknights or quick cravings.
  • Flavor Explosion, You Control: Customize your experience! Experiment with different fish seasonings, batters, and chip spices. Add a spicy kick or a cheesy drizzle, or go classic – it’s your choice!
  • Healthier Indulgence: Compared to traditional deep-frying, air-frying uses significantly less oil. This translates to fewer calories and a lighter feeling without sacrificing flavor.
  • Perfect for All: Whether you’re a seafood fanatic, a fry enthusiast, or just looking for a healthier comfort food option, air-fried fish and chips have something for everyone. It’s kid-approved, party-friendly, and endlessly adaptable.
  • Beyond the Basics: This isn’t just a “one-size-fits-all” recipe. We’ll share tips and tricks on finding the perfect fish, achieving the crispiest results, and exploring exciting flavor variations.

Ready to dive into the world of air-fried fish and chips? Stay tuned for the full recipe and unlock a world of delicious possibilities!

Fish and chips  air fryer

Ingredients for Air Fryer Fish and Chips

Indulge in a classic British favorite made healthier with the Air Fryer Fish and Chips, offering a crispy, golden exterior on the fish and chips without deep frying.

This recipe brings the beloved pub staple into your kitchen, ensuring a deliciously crispy outcome with significantly less oil.

Perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week, this air fryer version maintains the traditional flavors and textures that make fish and chips irresistible.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Fish and Chips

​Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

  • All-Purpose Flour: Serves as the base for the batter, giving it structure and crispness, and is also used for dredging to ensure the batter sticks to the fish.
  • Cornstarch: Added to the batter to lighten its texture and contribute to a crispier finish on the fish.
  • Baking soda: Reacts with the acid in beer or water to create bubbles, making the batter light and airy.
  • Beer or water: Beer adds a subtle flavor, and the carbonation makes the batter lighter. Water is a non-alcoholic alternative that also works to create a smooth batter.
  • Large egg: Binds the batter ingredients together, ensuring they adhere well to the fish.
  • Kosher salt: Seasons the batter and the fish, enhancing their natural flavors. Additional salt can be sprinkled on the finished dish to taste.
  • Black pepper: Adds a slight heat and depth of flavor to the batter, complementing the fish.
  • Paprika: Provides a mild, sweet note and a beautiful color to the batter.
  • Garlic powder: Infuses the batter with a savory, aromatic quality that pairs well with the mild taste of cod.
  • Cod fillets: A mild, flaky white fish ideal for fish and chips, offering a tender texture that contrasts nicely with the crispy batter.
  • Cooking spray: Used to coat the air fryer basket lightly and the battered fish to ensure a golden, crispy finish without deep frying.
  • Steak fries for serving: A hearty, satisfying side that complements the lightness of the battered fish, making for a complete meal, any of your favorite frozen fries, or homemade fries. 
  • Lemon wedges for serving: Adds a bright, acidic contrast to the rich flavors of the dish, enhancing the overall taste.
  • Homemade Tartar Sauce for serving: Offers a creamy, tangy element that pairs perfectly with the crispy fish, elevating the dish to classic fish and chips perfection.

Together, these ingredients create a Fish and Chips meal that’s easy to prepare in the air fryer, offering a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version without compromising taste or texture.

How to Make Air Fryer Fish and Chips – Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Fish and Chips in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version, providing a crispy exterior and tender interior without all the oil. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this classic dish in your air fryer:

dredging station for air fried fish

Step 1: Prepare The Batter

Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees F. In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of the flour, the cornstarch, baking soda, beer or water, and the egg until smooth; set aside. In another medium-sized bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup of flour, the salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, and set aside. 

air fryer fish and chips

Step 2: Coat The Fish

Use a paper towel and dry the fish. Place the cod, one piece at a time, into the batter. Let any excess batter drip off and place it into the flour mixture. Coat it in the flour and press it in. Spray the air fryer basket well with cooking oil spray, or use a parchment paper liner. Place the fish into the basket. You can add multiple pieces, but make sure they are not touching. Spray generously with cooking spray. 

air fryer fish and chips

Step 3: Air Fry Fish

Preheat the air fryer for a couple of minutes. Then, place the pieces of fish into the air fryer basket. Set the cooking time for 10-12 minutes; halfway through, spray again with more cooking spray; there is no need to flip. It is done when the fish is a golden brown color. Immediately sprinkle with more salt to taste. Serve with steak fries, lemon wedges, and tartar sauce for dipping.  

If you love seafood, check out some of my other easy air fryer fish recipes

air fryer fish and chips

Recipe Variations

Exploring variations of Air Fryer Fish and Chips can introduce new flavors and textures to this classic dish, making each meal an exciting experience. Here are some delightful twists to try:

  • Beer Batter Fish: Instead of a breadcrumb coating, dip your fish fillets in a beer batter made from flour, beer, salt, and a pinch of baking powder for a traditional British touch. The beer adds a lightness and a slight tang to the batter, perfect for air frying to achieve a crispy finish.
  • Keto or Low Carb Version: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour. You can also use pork rinds for a crispy coating. 
  • Sweet Potato Chips: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes to add a sweet, nutritious twist to your chips. Sweet potatoes offer a colorful alternative and pair wonderfully with savory fish.
  • Seasoned Cornflake Crust: For an extra crunchy fish coating, use crushed cornflakes mixed with a bit of cajun seasoning instead of panko breadcrumbs. This variation offers a unique texture and a spicy kick.
  • Lemon Herb Chips: Toss your potato wedges with olive oil, fresh lemon zest, and chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme before air frying. This adds a refreshing and aromatic flavor to the chips.
  • Cajun-Style Fish and Chips: Add Cajun seasoning to the fish coating and the potato wedges for a spicy, flavorful twist. The bold spices complement the mild fish and crispy potatoes perfectly.
  • Parmesan Crusted Fish: Mix grated cheese into the breadcrumb mixture to coat the fish. The cheese adds a deliciously crispy texture and a rich, savory flavor to the fillets.
  • Curry-Spiced Chips: Season your potato wedges with curry powder, or old bay seasoning, and turmeric before air frying for an Indian-inspired version. The spices add warmth and depth to the chips, creating a flavorful side.

Each of these variations on Air Fryer Fish and Chips allows you to customize the dish to fit your taste preferences or explore new flavor combinations, ensuring this classic meal remains a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

Making Fish and Chips in an air fryer

Pro Tips

Achieving the perfect Air Fryer Fish and Chips requires a balance of technique and timing. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out deliciously crispy and flavorful every time:

  • Choose the Right Fish Type: Opt for firm, white fish like cod or haddock for the best texture and flavor. Ensure the fillets are not too thick for even cooking.
  • Cold Ingredients: Use room temperature or slightly chilled beer or water to make the batter. This helps create a lighter, crispier crust when cooked.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until combined to avoid developing gluten, making the coating tough.
  • Dry Before Dipping: Pat the fish dry with paper towels before dredging in flour. This helps the batter stick better.
  • One at a Time: Dip and coat each fillet individually to ensure a uniform layer of batter.
  • Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat the air fryer for a few minutes to get a consistent cooking temperature, which is crucial for achieving that golden crispiness.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the fish in batches if necessary to allow air circulation around each fillet, promoting an even and crispy texture.
  • Flip Gently: Use a spatula to carefully flip the fish halfway through cooking to ensure it browns evenly on both sides.
  • Season Well: Toss your potato wedges with oil and seasonings before air frying to enhance flavor and achieve a golden exterior.
  • Serve Immediately: Air fryer fish and chips are best enjoyed fresh. Serve immediately after cooking with lemon wedges, lemon juice, and tartar sauce for added zest and creaminess.
  • Keep Warm: If cooking in batches, keep the cooked fish and chips warm in an oven at a low temperature while you finish the rest.
  • Easy Cleanup: To make cleanup easier, you can line the air fryer basket with parchment paper cut to size, ensuring it doesn’t cover all the ventilation holes.

By following these pro tips, your Air Fryer Fish and Chips will not only be healthier than the traditional deep-fried version but also irresistibly crispy and bursting with flavor, making it a meal that’s sure to impress.

Air Fryer Fish and Chips

Faq’s

Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets; thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating them with batter or breadcrumbs. This ensures the best texture and flavor.

Do I need to flip the fish during cooking? While not all air fryer models require flipping food to cook evenly, it’s a good practice to flip the fish halfway through cooking gently. This helps achieve a uniform golden crust on both sides.

What type of fish is best for air fryer fish and chips? This dish is ideal for firm white fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia. They have the right texture and mild flavor that pairs well with the crispy batter or breadcrumb coating.

Can I make the chips at the same time as the fish? For best results, cook the fish and chips separately. This allows each component to cook evenly and avoids overcrowding, which can lead to soggy results. You can keep one batch warm in the oven while the other cooks.

How can I prevent the batter from sticking to the air fryer basket? To prevent sticking, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray before adding your fish. Additionally, ensure the batter isn’t too wet, and consider placing parchment paper with holes in the bottom for easier removal.

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer? Yes, preheating your air fryer ensures the cooking environment is immediately hot and ready, contributing to a crispy texture on the fish and chips.

How do I know when the fish is cooked through? The fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F (63°C), and the coating is golden and crispy. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Can I use beer in the batter? Absolutely! Beer adds light to the batter and a subtle flavor that complements the fish. Ensure the beer is at room temperature to interact properly with the other batter ingredients.

How can I make my chips extra crispy? Soaking the potato wedges in cold water for at least 30 minutes before cooking removes excess starch, helping them crisp up better. Please make sure they’re dry before seasoning and air frying.

How to store leftover fish and chips: Let the fish cool to room temperature, then place them into an airtight container. 

Can I add seasonings to the batter or chips? Yes, feel free to customize the seasonings to your taste. Adding herbs, spices, or Parmesan cheese to the batter or chips can enhance the flavor profile of your dish.

air fryer fish and chips

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_Air Fryer Fish and Chips

Air Fryer Fish and Chips

3.85 from 32 votes
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Description

There is nothing better than a plate of homemade air fryer fish and chips, perfectly seasoned and cooked up in minutes in your air fryer!

Ingredients 

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour, divided
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/3 cup room temperature beer or water
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 12 oz cod filets, thawed
  • 1 large lemon, serving
  • 1 cup steak fries, serving
  • 1/4 cup homemade tartar sauce, serving
  • 1/8 cup malt vinegar, serving

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees F, air fryer setting. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of the flour, the cornstarch, baking soda, beer or water, and egg until smooth. Set aside.
  • In another medium-sized bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup of flour, the salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Set aside.
  • Place the cod, one piece at a time, into the batter. Let any excess batter drip off and place into the flour mixture. Coat it in the flour and press it in. Spray the air fryer basket well with cooking spray or use a piece of parchment paper. Place the fish into the basket, making sure that the fish is not touching each other. Spray generously with cooking spray.
  • Air Fry for 10 to 12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking process, spray again with more cooking spray. There is no need to flip. It is done when the fish is golden brown. Sprinkle with some salt to taste.
  • Plate, serve, and enjoy! Serve with steak fries, lemon wedges, and tartar sauce for dipping.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Notes

Serve this crispy fish with potatoes of any form and you’ll have an easy dinner ready in no time!

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 435kcalCarbohydrates: 57gProtein: 40gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 155mgSodium: 847mgPotassium: 889mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 240IUVitamin C: 32mgCalcium: 68mgIron: 4mg

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