This Air Fryer Monkfish recipe delivers tender, flaky fish with a lightly crisp exterior and bold, buttery flavor. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home. It’s the perfect way to cook up monkfish fillets, serve with freshly cut lemon slices, and some fresh herbs, for the perfect dinner!
If you love your air fryer, who doesn’t you might want to try cooking monk fish in the air fryer, it’s easy and it’s absolutely delicious!
I love the summer weather and during the summer season, I usually get a lot of seafood, and cooking seafood in the air fryer, is quick and delicious!
Whether you cook up monkfish fillets without a breading, and just use a simple seasoning mix, such as lemon pepper, and butter, or try your hand at breading monkfish for the air fryer, this easy air fryer monkfish recipe is amazing!
If you love seafood as much as I do, try my recipe for Air Fryer Clam Casino, Air Fryer Shrimp Foil Packets, or Olive Garden Salmon Bruschetta Recipe.
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Healthy seafood option – A lean source of protein without deep frying.
- Restaurant-quality results – Crispy outside, tender and flaky inside.
- Perfect for weeknights – Simple ingredients and fast cleanup.
- Versatile serving options – Great with veggies, rice, or a fresh salad.
Recipe Ingredients
- Monkfish fillets – Firm, meaty white fish with a mild flavor
- Olive oil – Adds richness and helps crisp the fish
- Garlic powder – Infuses savory depth into each bite
- Paprika – Adds smoky color and a warm flavor
- Salt and pepper – Enhances all the seasoning and fish flavor
- Lemon wedges – Brightens and balances with citrusy freshness
How To Make Air Fryer Monkfish
Step One: Preheat your air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Brush the monkfish with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step Two: Arrange the fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Step Three: Set cook time for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the fish is flaky and cooked through. Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges on the side.
Substitutions and Variations
- Monkfish → Substitute with cod, halibut, or sea bass for similar texture and mild flavor.
- Olive oil → Use avocado oil or melted butter for a slightly different taste.
- Garlic powder → Swap with fresh minced garlic or garlic paste for a bolder flavor.
- Paprika → Try smoked paprika or chili powder for a smoky or spicy twist.
- Lemon wedges → Use lime wedges or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a different finish.
- Bread Air Fryer Monkfish: Crispy Coating: Lightly coat the fillets in panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning blend.
- Citrus Marinade: Marinate the monkfish in lemon juice and zest for 30 minutes before cooking for added brightness.
Air Fryer Monkfish Recipe Faqs
Can I cook frozen monkfish in the air fryer? Yes, but it’s best to thaw the monkfish first for even cooking. If cooking from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the cook time and make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
How do I know when monkfish is done cooking? Monkfish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
What does monkfish taste like? Monkfish has a firm texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor, often compared to lobster or scallops.
Can I marinate the monkfish before air frying? Absolutely! A quick marinade of lemon juice, herbs, and olive oil can add extra flavor. Just be sure to pat it dry before seasoning and air frying.
Can you fry monkfish if you don’t have any air fryer? Yes, you can pan-fry or oven-bake monkfish if you don’t have an air fryer—just adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
What To Serve With Air Fried Monkfish
Air fried monkfish pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes that complement its firm texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor.
For a light and balanced meal, serve it with roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts. A fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a bright contrast, while garlic mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf provide heartier options.
For a Mediterranean twist, pair it with couscous and a dollop of tzatziki or serve it over a bed of creamy polenta with grilled tomatoes on the side.
Storing & Reheating Monkfish In Air Fryer
Storing Monkfish: Store leftover monkfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Reheating Monkfish in Air Fryer: Reheat monkfish in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid overheating to keep the fish tender and prevent dryness.
More Easy Air Fryer Seafood Recipes
Air Fryer Frozen Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Air Fryer Hawaiian Shrimp Kabobs
Air Fryer Honey Orange Firecracker Shrimp
Don’t Forget To Pin!
Follow me on Instagram @forktospoon, Facebook at Fork To Spoon TikTok @forktospoon or Pinterest at @forktospoon and let me know how you liked this recipe and my other recipe
Air Fryer Monkfish Recipe
Description
Ingredients
- 1 pound monkfish fillets
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Coat the monkfish with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the fillets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
- Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Nutrition
Share this recipe
We can’t wait to see what you’ve made! Mention @forktospoon or tag #forktospoon!
