Air Fryer Fish Bites: Dinner, Simplified
Ingredients
- 1 pound white fish fillets (cod, halibut, haddock, or tilapia), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray or neutral cooking spray
Method
Prep your coating.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat the fish.
- Pat fish pieces dry. Dredge each in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the coating sticks.
Preheat and spray.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil.
Cook the bites.
- Arrange in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Serve.
- Serve warm with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or a lemon-dill yogurt dip.
Notes
Helpful Tips
- Make-ahead: Freeze uncooked bites and air fry straight from frozen for 10–12 minutes
- Extra crisp: Lightly mist the tops with olive oil before cooking.
- Time saver: Use pre-cut fish or fillet portions to skip the prep.
- Kid-friendly: Pair with baked fries, veggie sticks, or a side of rice.
- Dinner win: Works for weeknights, snack boards, or casual entertaining.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to bring back the crunch.