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Air Fryer Mahi Mahi

Name: Air Fryer Mahi Mahi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 2 fillets mahi mahi (about 4 ounces each); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted); 2 teaspoons garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon lemon zest

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Air Fryer Mahi Mahi — If you are looking for an easy dinner recipe, or what a great taco recipe Tuesday, try my recipe for Air Fryer Mahi Mahi Tacos! Perfect for the whole family, and nothing is easier than a quick dinner or lunch.

Deliciously Simple Air Fryer Mahi Mahi Recipe!

Air fryers have become a kitchen staple for those seeking a healthier and more convenient way to cook their favorite dishes. If you’re a seafood lover, you’re in for a treat with this easy and delectable Air Fryer Mahi Mahi recipe.

You can enjoy perfectly cooked, tender mahi mahi fillets with a delightful, crispy exterior in just a few minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer pro or just starting, this recipe will become a go-to for quick and satisfying seafood dinners. Let’s dive in and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish that will impress your taste buds.

What is Mahi Mahi?

Mahi Mahi, also known as dolphinfish or dorado, is a fish in warm ocean waters worldwide. It’s known for its distinctive appearance and vibrant colors, including bright blues and greens on its back and sides. Mahi Mahi has a mild and slightly sweet flavor, making it a popular choice for seafood dishes. It has a firm texture, which holds up well to various cooking methods, including grilling, baking, and, as in this recipe, air frying. Due to its versatility and delightful taste, Mahi Mahi is often used in fish tacos, salads, and other seafood dishes.

Can You Cook Mahi Mahi In Air Fryer?

Yes, you can cook mahi mahi in an air fryer. Air frying is a convenient and healthy way to prepare this delicious fish. It helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and moist. With the right seasonings and cooking time, you can make flavorful and perfectly cooked mahi mahi in your air fryer.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Mahi Mahi

Air frying is a fantastic method for preparing Mahi Mahi, a flavorful and flaky fish that pairs well with various seasonings and sides. This quick and easy recipe will guide you through creating perfectly cooked and succulent mahi mahi using your trusty air fryer.

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.

Mahi Mahi fillets – Fresh or frozen fillets work.
Olive oil – For brushing the fillets.
Seasonings – Use a blend of your choice, such as garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper, for added flavor.
Lemon wedges – Optional for garnish and a hint of citrusy freshness.
Fresh herbs – Like parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional).
Cooking spray – To prevent sticking to the air fryer basket.

How To Cook Mahi Mahi In Air Fryer

With a few simple steps, you can make this easy air fryer recipe in your air fryer; who doesn’t love Mahi Mahi Fish?

Preheat Your Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C) for 1-2 minutes.
Prepare the Mahi Mahi: Pat the Mahi Mahi fillets dry with a paper towel. Brush them lightly with olive oil to help the seasonings adhere.
Season the Fillets: Sprinkle the fillets with your desired seasonings. You can keep it simple with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, or get creative with your favorite spice blend.
Place in the Air Fryer: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the seasoned Mahi Mahi fillets in a single layer in the basket.
Cook: Set cook time for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets and the specific air fryer model, so keep an eye on them.
Check for Doneness: The Mahi Mahi is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If needed, you can extend the cooking time by a few minutes, but be cautious not to overcook, as Mahi Mahi can become dry.
Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and squeeze lemon juice if desired. Serve your air-fried Mahi Mahi fillets hot with your favorite sides.

This air fryer method ensures your Mahi Mahi stays moist and flaky while developing a lovely, crispy exterior. Enjoy your delicious and healthy fish dish!

How Long To Cook Mahi Mahi In Air Fryer?

Spray your basket with cooking spray, add your fish (either fresh or frozen), spray the fish with cooking spray, and air fry for 10-12 minutes. Once the fish flakes easily, remove it from the air fryer basket. To plate, spoon the sauce over the fish.

Pro Tips For Cooking Mahi Mahi In Air Fryer

Here are some pro tips for cooking Mahi Mahi in an air fryer to achieve the best results:

Use Fresh Mahi Mahi: Start with fresh Mahi Mahi fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that are firm, moist, and have a mild ocean-like scent.
Pat Dry: Before seasoning, pat the Mahi Mahi fillets dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasonings adhere better and promotes a crispy exterior.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer to the recommended temperature ensures that your Mahi Mahi cooks evenly and with a nice sear.
Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the Mahi Mahi fillets with olive oil. This adds flavor, helps the seasonings stick, and aids in creating a crispy outer layer.
Season Generously: Season mahi mahi fillets with your favorite seasonings. Don’t be shy with the spices or herbs; Mahi Mahi can handle a variety of flavors. Some of my favorite seasonings to use on white fish are onion powder, chili powder, and spice rub. Different seasonings work well, such as the delicious white fish, as a mild flavor, or melted garlic butter over the fish fillets.
Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange the fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring some space between them. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
Flip Halfway Through: Flip the Mahi Mahi fillets halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides are evenly cooked and have that desirable crispy texture.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the Mahi Mahi. It should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. Avoid overcooking, as Mahi Mahi can dry out quickly.
Serve Fresh: Serve the air-fried Mahi Mahi immediately after cooking to enjoy it at its best. Top with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
Experiment with Seasonings: Mahi Mahi pairs well with various seasonings, so feel free to experiment with different spice blends, citrus zest, or herb combinations to create a unique flavor profile.

With these tips, you’ll be able to prepare perfectly cooked and flavorful Mahi Mahi in your air fryer, making it a quick and delicious option for a healthy seafood dinner.

Can I cook frozen Mahi Mahi in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen Mahi Mahi in an air fryer, but it’s recommended to thaw it first for even cooking and better results. If cooking from frozen, adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What temperature should I set the air fryer for Mahi Mahi?

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for cooking Mahi Mahi. This temperature allows for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender.

How long should I cook Mahi Mahi in the air fryer?

The cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. On average, cook Mahi Mahi in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use batter or breading for Mahi Mahi in the air fryer?

Yes, you can use a light batter or breading to coat the Mahi Mahi before air frying. Just be mindful of excess moisture, as it can affect the crispiness of the coating. You may want to lightly spray the coated fillets with cooking spray for added crispiness.

What are some recommended seasonings for Mahi Mahi in the air fryer?

Mahi Mahi pairs well with a variety of seasonings, including lemon pepper, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, dill, thyme, and rosemary. Citrus zest and a drizzle of olive oil also enhance its flavor.

Can I cook Mahi Mahi with the skin on in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook Mahi Mahi with the skin on in the air fryer. Make sure to score the skin lightly with a knife before cooking to prevent it from curling up.

How do I prevent the Mahi Mahi from sticking to the air fryer basket?

To prevent sticking, lightly grease the air fryer basket or use parchment paper or a non-stick cooking mat. This will make it easier to remove the fillets after cooking.

What side dishes go well with Mahi Mahi in the air fryer?

Mahi Mahi pairs beautifully with side dishes like roasted vegetables, quinoa, couscous, a fresh salad, or steamed rice. You can also serve it with a light sauce or salsa for added flavor.

Store:

Let the Mahi Mahi cool to room temperature, and then place fillets into an airtight container placed in the refrigerator; the fish will last for 3-4 days.

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