1. Prepare the Fish Fillets:
- Pat Dry:
- Use paper towels to pat the fish fillets dry. This helps the coating adhere better and ensures a crispy texture.
- Season:
- Season both sides of the fish fillets with a little salt and black pepper.
2. Prepare the Breading Station:
- Flour:
- Place the flour in a shallow dish.
- Egg Mixture:
- In another shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined.
- Breadcrumbs:
- In a third shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano or thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Bread the Fish Fillets:
- Dredge in Flour:
- Coat each fish fillet lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in Egg Mixture:
- Dip the floured fillet into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs:
- Coat the fillet evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Cook the Fish Fillets:
- Arrange Fillets:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded fish fillets in the basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook:
- Air fry the fish fillets at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The fish should be golden brown and crispy on the outside and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) when fully cooked.
6. Serve:
- Garnish:
- Optionally, garnish with fresh lemon wedges, chopped parsley, or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese.
- Serve:
- Serve the air fryer fish fillets with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of tartar sauce.
Conclusion
Air fryer fish fillets offer a crispy, golden exterior and a moist, tender interior with minimal oil. This method is not only quick and easy but also results in a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these fish fillets are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy your perfectly cooked fish and the delightful crunch of the air fryer!