Love seafood but not the fuss? You’re in luck! Air frying frozen fish is an absolute game-changer. It’s the easiest way to get perfectly crispy, delicious fish without all the oil and mess of deep frying. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight meal, a healthy lunch, or a family favorite, your air fryer turns frozen fish into a golden-brown delight in minutes.
But with so many options in the freezer aisle, how do you pick the best frozen fish for air fryer cooking? Don’t worry, we’ve done the legwork for you! We’ve rounded up some of the top contenders that truly shine in an air fryer, making your healthy seafood dreams a reality. Get ready for convenience, crunch, and amazing flavor!
Why Air Fry Frozen Fish?
Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, mimicking the results of deep frying with far less oil. For frozen fish, this means:
- Unbeatable Crispiness: Say goodbye to soggy fish! The hot air makes breading and batter incredibly crisp.
- Faster Cooking: Most frozen fish cooks up much quicker in an air fryer than a traditional oven.
- Healthier Option: Less oil means fewer calories and less fat, making it a guilt-free pleasure.
- Easy Cleanup: Minimal mess compared to pan-frying or deep-frying.
Ready to dive into our top picks for the best frozen fish for air fryer cooking? Let’s get started!
The 7 Best Frozen Fish for Air Fryer Options
1. Gorton’s Crunchy Breaded Fish Fillets, 19 oz
Gorton’s has been a household name for generations, and their Crunchy Breaded Fish Fillets uphold that legacy beautifully, especially when air fried. Made from wild-caught Alaskan Pollock and coated in savory panko breadcrumbs, these fillets achieve an incredible crispiness that’s tough to beat. They’re a fantastic choice for a quick, wholesome meal that truly satisfies.
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Key Features:
- Made from high-quality, wild-caught Alaskan Pollock.
- Coated with panko breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch.
- Flash-frozen at peak freshness to lock in nutrition.
- No fillers, artificial colors, flavors, or hydrogenated oils.
- Natural source of Omega-3s and protein.
- Explicitly states “cook in an air fryer for a crunchier bite.”
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Pros:
- Achieves exceptional crispiness in an air fryer.
- Excellent source of protein and Omega-3s.
- Free from artificial additives.
- Trusted brand with a long history of quality.
- Convenient and mess-free.
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Cons:
- Breading can sometimes come off if handled roughly.
- Can be high in sodium.
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User Impressions: Customers consistently praise these fillets for their consistent quality and how perfectly crispy they become in an air fryer. Many say it’s their go-to for a quick and easy fish dinner that kids and adults alike enjoy.
2. Louisiana AIR FRYER Seasoned Coating Mix for FISH
While not frozen fish itself, this Louisiana AIR FRYER Seasoned Coating Mix is an absolute must-have if you’re looking to elevate your homemade frozen fish or fresh fish for the air fryer. This mix is specifically formulated to create that ideal crispy texture and infuse your fish with a delicious, authentic Cajun-inspired flavor without needing excessive oil. It’s the secret weapon for turning plain fish into a golden, flavorful masterpiece in your air fryer.
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Key Features:
- Specifically designed for air fryer cooking.
- Promises crisp results with minimal oil.
- Adds a savory, seasoned flavor to fish.
- Easy to use – just coat and cook.
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Pros:
- Enhances crispiness of any fish cooked in the air fryer.
- Adds a robust, well-balanced flavor profile.
- Very easy to apply and use.
- A great way to customize your frozen fish.
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Cons:
- Not a standalone food item; requires fish to go with it.
- Flavor might not appeal to everyone.
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User Impressions: Users rave about how this coating mix truly transforms their fish, giving it a much better texture and taste than cooking without it. Many mention how it makes their frozen fish taste almost like restaurant quality.
3. 365 Everyday Value Wild Caught Breaded Fish Fillets
From Whole Foods Market, the 365 Everyday Value Wild Caught Breaded Fish Fillets offer a high-quality, sustainably sourced option for your air fryer. Made from wild-caught Pollock from the USA, these fillets are a great choice for those seeking a more mindful approach to their seafood. They cook up beautifully, providing a satisfying and wholesome meal that aligns with quality standards.
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Key Features:
- Whole Foods Market brand, ensuring quality standards.
- Made from wild-caught Pollock from the USA.
- Sustainably sourced and Certified Sustainable Seafood.
- Contains 185mg Omega-3 per serving.
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Pros:
- High-quality, wild-caught, and sustainably sourced.
- Good source of Omega-3 fatty acids.
- Cooks well in an air fryer for a crispy exterior.
- Reliable choice for health-conscious consumers.
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Cons:
- May be less widely available outside of Whole Foods stores.
- Can be slightly more expensive than conventional brands.
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User Impressions: Shoppers appreciate the quality and ethical sourcing of these fillets. They report good crispiness from the air fryer, making them a staple for quick, healthy dinners.
4. 365 Everyday Value Wild Caught Breaded Fish Squares
If you loved the fillets, you’ll be happy to know that 365 Everyday Value also offers Wild Caught Breaded Fish Squares. These are essentially the same great quality and sustainable sourcing as their fillets but in a fun, kid-friendly square shape. Perfect for little hands or for creating fish stick-style meals, they cook up just as wonderfully crispy in the air fryer, making them a fantastic addition to any family’s freezer.
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Key Features:
- Whole Foods Market brand quality.
- Made from wild-caught Pollock from the USA.
- Sustainably sourced and Certified Sustainable Seafood.
- Contains 130mg Omega-3 per serving.
- Kid-friendly “square” shape.
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Pros:
- Great for kids and quick snacks.
- Maintains the same high quality and sustainable sourcing as the fillets.
- Achieves good crispiness in the air fryer.
- Good source of Omega-3s.
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Cons:
- Smaller pieces might dry out faster if overcooked.
- Lower Omega-3 content compared to the fillet version.
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User Impressions: Parents particularly love these for their kids due to the convenient shape and reliable quality. They praise how quickly and crisply they cook in the air fryer, making them an easy, healthy option for picky eaters.
5. Gorton’s Crunchy Breaded Fish Sticks, 19 oz
Gorton’s Crunchy Breaded Fish Sticks are a timeless classic, and for good reason! These aren’t just for kids; they’re a perfectly convenient and tasty option for anyone looking for a quick bite. Made with wild-caught Alaskan Pollock and coated in their signature panko breading, they get incredibly crunchy and golden in the air fryer. Plus, they come in a resealable bag, ensuring freshness every time you reach for them.
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Key Features:
- Family favorite, made from wild-caught Alaskan Pollock.
- Panko breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch.
- Flash-frozen for peak freshness and nutrition.
- No fillers, artificial colors, flavors, or hydrogenated oils.
- Natural source of Omega-3s and protein.
- Explicitly states “cook in an air fryer for a crunchier bite.”
- Tested mercury safe and comes in a resealable bag.
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Pros:
- Reliably crispy and delicious when air fried.
- Convenient for snacks, appetizers, or quick meals.
- Resealable bag helps maintain freshness.
- Trusted brand with a long-standing reputation.
- Good source of protein and Omega-3s, mercury safe.
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Cons:
- Smaller portions might require more pieces for a full meal.
- Easy to overcook if not careful due to smaller size.
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User Impressions: A true crowd-pleaser! Reviewers often highlight how the air fryer takes these classic fish sticks to a new level of crispiness, making them taste even better than oven-baked. They’re a perfect quick fix for any craving.
6. Gorton’s Crispy Battered Fish Portions, 24.5 oz
If you prefer a rich, crispy battered finish over a breaded one, Gorton’s Crispy Battered Fish Portions are an excellent choice for your air fryer. These flaky, white fish portions are enveloped in a delightful crispy batter that browns beautifully, offering a different texture profile. They’re perfect for creating a fish-and-chips-style meal at home with minimal effort and no messy oil splatters.
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Key Features:
- Flaky, white fish portions in a delicious crispy batter.
- Great for kids and family meals.
- Made with 100% real fish, no fillers.
- No MSG, artificial colors, or flavors.
- Natural Omega-3 content.
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Pros:
- Achieves a satisfying crispy batter in the air fryer.
- Offers a different texture experience from breaded options.
- Made with real fish and no undesirable additives.
- Good for family dinners.
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Cons:
- Batter can be heavier than breading.
- Might be slightly higher in calories due to the batter.
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User Impressions: Many customers enjoy these for their classic “fish and chips” feel. They note that while the batter is different from breading, it gets wonderfully crispy in the air fryer, making for a comforting and easy meal.
7. Van de Kamp’s Beer Battered 100% Whole Fish Fillets
For a true pub-style experience right in your kitchen, Van de Kamp’s Beer Battered 100% Whole Fish Fillets are a fantastic pick for your air fryer. These fillets bring a delicious, savory beer-battered crunch without the need for deep-frying. Made with 100% real fish and packing a good protein punch, they’re perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner when you’re craving that classic taste.
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Key Features:
- Beer battered for a distinct, savory flavor.
- Made with 100% whole fish fillets.
- Contains 7 grams of protein per serving.
- Convenient frozen format for quick meals.
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Pros:
- Authentic beer-battered taste.
- Cooks up crispy in the air fryer.
- Made with whole fish, not processed pieces.
- Good source of protein.
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Cons:
- The beer batter flavor might not appeal to everyone.
- Batter can be prone to getting soggy if not cooked correctly or left out too long.
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User Impressions: Fans of traditional fish and chips absolutely love these. They highlight how the air fryer delivers on the promise of crispy beer batter, making it an easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Air Frying Frozen Fish
Q1: Why should I air fry frozen fish instead of baking or pan-frying?
A1: Air frying offers superior crispiness with significantly less oil than deep-frying or even pan-frying. It’s also often faster and more convenient than oven baking, giving you a delicious, healthy seafood option with minimal cleanup.
Q2: What’s the ideal temperature and cooking time for frozen fish in an air fryer?
A2: Most frozen breaded or battered fish cooks best at 380-400°F (195-205°C). Cooking times vary by product and thickness, but generally range from 12-20 minutes. Always check the package instructions first, and flip the fish halfway through for even crispiness.
Q3: Do I need to preheat my air fryer before cooking frozen fish?
A3: While not strictly necessary for all models, preheating for 3-5 minutes at your desired cooking temperature can help the fish cook more evenly and achieve a crispier exterior faster.
Q4: Can I put parchment paper or foil in my air fryer when cooking fish?
A4: You can use air fryer-specific parchment paper liners, which have holes for air circulation. Avoid using regular parchment paper or foil that blocks airflow, as this can prevent the fish from getting crispy and may even be a fire hazard in some models. Ensure any liner doesn’t touch the heating element.
Q5: How do I prevent my frozen fish from sticking to the air fryer basket?
A5: Lightly misting the air fryer basket with cooking spray (non-aerosol is best for air fryers) before adding the fish can help prevent sticking. Also, don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in a single layer to allow air to circulate properly.
Q6: Is air-fried frozen fish a healthy meal option?
A6: Yes, it can be! Air frying significantly reduces the amount of oil needed compared to traditional frying methods, making it a healthier alternative. Many frozen fish products are also good sources of protein and Omega-3s. Pair them with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Q7: Can I cook multiple pieces of frozen fish at once in my air fryer?
A7: Yes, as long as you arrange them in a single layer without overcrowding the basket. Overlapping pieces will result in uneven cooking and less crispiness. If you have a lot of fish to cook, it’s better to do it in batches.