Love crispy fish but not the mess and oil of deep frying? An air fryer is a game-changer for preparing perfectly cooked seafood, giving you that delightful crunch with significantly less fat. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best air fryer for fish that truly delivers?
We’ve reeled in the top contenders, looking for features that matter most when it comes to delicate fish fillets, whole fish, or even fish sticks. Think precise temperature control, even cooking, easy cleanup, and enough capacity for your catch of the day. Let’s dive in and find your kitchen’s new best friend!
Why an Air Fryer is Perfect for Fish
Air frying works by circulating super-heated air around your food, creating a crispy exterior similar to deep frying, but with just a fraction of the oil. For fish, this means:
* Crispy Skin, Flaky Interior: Achieving that perfect balance is easier than ever.
* Healthier Meals: Enjoy your favorite fried fish guilt-free.
* Faster Cooking: Many fish types cook up incredibly fast.
* Less Mess: No splattering oil to clean up afterward.
* Odor Control: Much less lingering fish smell compared to pan-frying.
Ready to discover the best air fryer for fish to elevate your seafood game? Let’s check out our top picks!
1. Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity, Air…
This Ninja Air Fryer Pro is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to achieve perfectly crispy fish without sacrificing counter space. Its signature Air Crisp Technology ensures that delicate fish fillets get that desired golden-brown finish while staying moist and flaky inside, all with minimal oil. It’s compact enough for smaller kitchens but boasts a decent 5-quart capacity, making it great for personal portions or small family meals. Plus, cleanup is a breeze, which is a big win when cooking fish!
Key Features:
– AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 400℉ superheated air surrounds food for hot, crispy results with little to no oil.
– LARGE CAPACITY: The 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate fit up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
– 4-in-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
– GUILT-FREE FRIED FOODS: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods.
– FROZEN TO CRISPY: Cook frozen foods in just minutes for an extra-crispy finish.
– SPACE SAVER: Ninja’s latest air fryer design allows you to save even more space on your countertop.
– EASY TO CLEAN: The basket and crisper plate are both nonstick for easy cleaning.
– WHAT’S INCLUDED: Air Fryer, 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate, chef-inspired 20 recipe book and cooking charts.
Pros:
– Excellent crisping performance for fish and other foods.
– Space-saving design fits well on most countertops.
– Easy to clean with nonstick, dishwasher-safe parts.
– Versatile with multiple cooking functions.
Cons:
– 5-quart capacity might be limiting for larger families or bigger batches of fish.
– No advanced smart features or dual zones.
User Impressions:
Users frequently praise this Ninja model for its reliability and consistent results. Many highlight how quickly it cooks food, especially frozen items, and love how easy it is to wipe down or pop in the dishwasher. For fish lovers, the crispy texture achieved without much oil is a consistent favorite.
2. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster…
If you’re a serious home cook or often entertain, the Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a multi-cooker powerhouse that goes beyond being just an air fryer. Its massive 26-quart capacity means you can cook a substantial amount of fish – multiple fillets, a whole roasted fish, or a big batch of fish and chips – all at once. The elegant French doors and interior light aren’t just for show; they let you monitor your delicate seafood without losing heat. Plus, with its dual-speed fan and 360º superheated air, your fish will get that perfectly golden-fried crisp every time.
Key Features:
– A VERSATILE AIR FRYER AND MULTI-COOKER COMBO: Elevates practically any meal, from air frying quick snacks to roasting for large gatherings.
– PERFECTLY DONE TOAST: Oven turns off automatically when the toast countdown timer ends.
– 25 COOKING PRE-SETS: Provide a variety of cooking methods: Ribs, Defrost, Bake, Toast, Chicken, Pizza, Pastry, Slow Cook, Roast, Reheat, and Keep Warm.
– DUAL-SPEED FAN: Golden fried crisping at its finest with 360º superheated air circulation.
– 26-QUART CAPACITY: Suitable for preparing food for 4–6 people with capacity to rotisserie a 6-lb chicken, bake a 12” pizza.
– STAINLESS STEEL EXTERIOR: A beautiful aesthetic to any kitchen, and elegant French doors open with a single pull.
Pros:
– Extremely large capacity, ideal for families or entertaining.
– Highly versatile with 25 presets and multi-cooker functions.
– Dual-speed fan ensures excellent air circulation for even crisping.
– Elegant design with French doors and interior light.
Cons:
– Takes up a significant amount of counter space due to its size.
– More complex controls than a basic air fryer due to numerous functions.
User Impressions:
Customers rave about the Emeril Lagasse’s versatility and ample space, often remarking on its ability to handle full meals. While it’s a larger appliance, users appreciate the convenience of its many functions and the solid, even cooking results, especially for things like crispy wings and, of course, fish.
3. COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Fast Turbo…
The COSORI 9-in-1 Air Fryer is a standout if you prioritize precise cooking and efficiency for your seafood. Its innovative TurboBlaze Technology, with a powerful 3600 rpm fan and temperatures up to 450℉, ensures that your fish achieves beyond-crispy, juicy perfection. The unique 5-fan speed system gives you professional-grade control over delicate textures, which is crucial for perfect fish fillets. Plus, it operates at a whisper-quiet less than 53 dB, meaning you won’t disrupt your household while cooking up a delicious fish dinner.
Key Features:
– 𝙏𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology delivers a powerful 3600 rpm fan speed and temperatures up to 450℉.
– 𝙏𝙚𝙭𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Advanced airflow and precise temperature control deliver evenly cooked side dishes with perfectly balanced texture.
– 𝙋𝙧𝙤 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Cosori’s unique 5-fan speed system and precise 90°–450°F temperature control deliver professional-grade versatility.
– 𝙏𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: TurboBlaze Technology helps speed up cooking to save time.
– 𝘾𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: The 6-quart square basket offers a wider, deeper design for family meals.
– 𝙀𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Operates at less than 53 dB even on high fan speed, delivering whisper-quiet performance.
– 95% 𝙇𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙊𝙞𝙡: Enjoy the same crispy textures as traditional deep frying with up to 95% less oil.
– 𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙧-𝙎𝙖𝙛𝙚: The nonstick cooking basket and detachable accessories make cleaning a breeze.
– 𝘾𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙯𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙋𝙧𝙚𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙁𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣: Enjoy flexibility with the Preheat function.
– 𝘿𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙈𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙊𝙪𝙩 𝙀𝙣𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙥𝙚: Included user manual, chef-created 30-recipe cookbook with pictures, cooking charts.
Pros:
– Exceptional crisping and even cooking with TurboBlaze technology.
– Very quiet operation, great for open-concept homes.
– Large 6-quart square basket fits more food efficiently.
– Precise temperature and fan speed control for delicate items like fish.
– Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts.
Cons:
– Higher price point compared to basic models.
– The customizable preheat function might require a slight learning curve for new users.
User Impressions:
Many users commend the COSORI for its lightning-fast cooking and ability to produce incredibly crispy results. The quiet operation is a huge plus, and people appreciate the generous capacity and the fact that the basket is so easy to clean. It’s often recommended for those seeking a high-performance air fryer.
4. Ninja Foodi 10QT 6-in-1 DualZone Smart XL Air Fryer, 2…
The Ninja Foodi DualZone Smart XL Air Fryer is a true kitchen innovation, especially if you love cooking complete meals. Its standout feature is the DualZone Technology, allowing you to cook two different foods in two separate baskets, at two different temperatures, and have them finish at the same time. Imagine air frying your salmon fillets in one zone and crispy asparagus in the other, all perfectly cooked and ready simultaneously! The integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer also takes the guesswork out of cooking fish to your preferred doneness, ensuring a consistently delicious result. This is undoubtedly a strong contender for the best air fryer for fish if you often cook for a crowd or want to tackle main courses and sides simultaneously.
Key Features:
– 2 FOODS, 2 WAYS, AT THE SAME TIME: Eliminating back-to-back cooking with 2 independent XL air fryer baskets.
– SMART COOK SYSTEM: Achieve the perfect doneness with the integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer—no guesswork required.
– DUALZONE TECHNOLOGY: Smart Finish feature (cook 2 foods 2 ways that finish at the same time) or Match Cook feature (copies settings across zones for full 10-qt. capacity).
– IQ BOOST: Optimally distributes power across each basket for faster cooking.
– 6 VERSATILE COOKING PROGRAMS: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
– XL 10-QT. CAPACITY AND 2 BASKETS: Cook a main and a side at the same time for quick, large family meals, or cook up to 8 -lbs. of chicken wings.
– 2 INDEPENDENT 5-QT. XL ZONES: They have their own cooking baskets, cyclonic fans, and rapid heaters.
– FASTER COOKING: Cooks two 6-lb. chickens up to 30% faster than a traditional oven. Frozen-to-crispy meals in 30 minutes.
– EASY TO CLEAN: Includes nonstick cooking baskets and dishwasher-safe crisper plates.
– WHAT’S INCLUDED: Ninja Foodi Dual Zone Air Fryer, Foodi Smart Thermometer, (2) 5 Quart Baskets, (2) Nonstick Crisper Plates & 15-Recipe Guide.
Pros:
– Revolutionary DualZone technology for cooking complete meals simultaneously.
– Smart Thermometer ensures perfect doneness for fish every time.
– Huge 10-quart capacity with two independent zones.
– Cooks faster than traditional ovens.
– Dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup.
Cons:
– Larger footprint, requires significant counter space.
– Higher price point than single-basket models.
User Impressions:
Users are consistently impressed with the DualZone feature, calling it a “game-changer” for family meals. The smart thermometer is a particular favorite for ensuring perfectly cooked meats and fish. While it’s a larger appliance, its efficiency and convenience often outweigh the size concern for many.
5. Ninja Air Fryer, Roast, Bake, Air Fry, Roast, Broil,…
This compact Ninja Air Fryer is an excellent entry-level option or a perfect fit for smaller households. While more modest in size at 4 quarts, it still packs a punch with Ninja’s renowned air crisping technology, allowing you to enjoy your favorite fried fish with up to 75% less fat. Its wide temperature range (105°F-400°F) offers versatility beyond just air frying, letting you gently dehydrate fish jerky or quickly roast a fillet. If you’re looking for a straightforward, efficient, and easy-to-clean air fryer specifically for smaller portions of fish, this is a solid pick.
Key Features:
– LESS FAT: Air fry with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods.
– WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: 105°F-400°F allows you to gently remove moisture from foods or quickly cook and crisp foods with convection heat.
– FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket and crisper plate fit 2 lbs of French fries.
– 4-IN-1 VERSATILITY: Includes 4 versatile cooking programs: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
– DEHYDRATE: Create flat, chip-like dehydrated foods for fun, homemade snacks.
– EASY-TO-CLEAN: Dishwasher safe parts including the basket, and crisper plate.
– WHAT’S INCLUDED: Shark Air Fryer, 4 Quart Nonstick Basket, Crisper Plate, and 20 Recipe Booklet.
Pros:
– Compact size ideal for small kitchens or single/double households.
– Delivers excellent crispy results with significantly less oil.
– Easy to use and clean with dishwasher-safe components.
– Wide temperature range adds versatility.
Cons:
– Smaller capacity means cooking in batches for larger meals.
– Fewer advanced features compared to other Ninja models.
User Impressions:
Customers love this air fryer for its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s often praised for its ability to crisp up food perfectly and for being incredibly easy to clean. Many consider it a great value for its price, especially if they don’t need a super-large capacity or advanced features.
How to Choose the Best Air Fryer for Fish
When picking the perfect appliance for your seafood, consider these factors:
- Capacity: How many people are you typically cooking for? A 4-quart unit is great for 1-2 people, while 6-10 quarts are better for families or entertaining.
- Temperature Control: Fish can be delicate. Look for models with precise temperature settings to prevent overcooking.
- Versatility: Do you want just an air fryer, or a multi-cooker that can also roast, bake, or dehydrate?
- Ease of Cleaning: Fish can leave behind odors and residue. Nonstick, dishwasher-safe baskets and plates are a huge plus.
- Footprint: How much counter space do you have? Larger models offer more capacity but take up more room.
- Smart Features: Features like integrated thermometers or dual zones can make cooking fish even easier and more convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions about Air Frying Fish
Q1: What’s the best temperature to air fry fish?
A: Generally, a temperature between 375°F (190°C) and 400°F (200°C) works best for most fish fillets. This allows the exterior to crisp nicely while the inside cooks through without drying out.
Q2: Do I need to preheat my air fryer for fish?
A: Yes, preheating is highly recommended for fish. It ensures a more even cook and that coveted crispy exterior from the moment the fish hits the hot basket. Most air fryers take about 3-5 minutes to preheat.
Q3: How long does it take to cook fish in an air fryer?
A: Cooking times vary depending on the thickness and type of fish. Thin fillets (like cod or tilapia) might take 8-12 minutes, while thicker cuts (like salmon or tuna steaks) could take 12-18 minutes. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q4: How do I prevent fish from sticking to the air fryer basket?
A: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil or a non-aerosol olive oil mister before placing the fish. You can also coat the fish lightly in a small amount of oil or use parchment paper liners specifically designed for air fryers.
Q5: Can I cook frozen fish in an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! Air fryers are fantastic for cooking frozen fish fillets or fish sticks. You’ll typically need to add about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time compared to fresh fish. No need to thaw first!
Q6: What types of fish cook best in an air fryer?
A: Fish with a firm texture like salmon, cod, haddock, tilapia, and mahi-mahi are excellent choices. Breaded or battered fish also turns out incredibly crispy.
Q7: How do I clean my air fryer after cooking fish?
A: After cooking, let the basket cool down. Most modern air fryer baskets are nonstick and dishwasher-safe. For stuck-on bits, soak the basket in warm, soapy water for a few minutes before scrubbing gently. Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth.
Q8: Can I cook whole fish in an air fryer?
A: If your air fryer has a large enough capacity (like the Emeril Lagasse or Ninja Foodi DualZone), you can certainly cook smaller whole fish. Just ensure it fits comfortably and has room for air to circulate around it.
Reeling It In
Choosing the best air fryer for fish really comes down to your individual needs – whether you’re a solo diner craving a quick, healthy meal or a family hosting a seafood feast. From compact efficiency to dual-zone mastery, there’s an air fryer out there ready to transform your fish dishes from good to “oh my cod, that’s amazing!” Happy air frying!