Can I Cook Frozen Fish in the Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can cook frozen fish in the air fryer—no thawing needed—for a quick, crispy, and healthy meal. With minimal prep and cook times under 15 minutes, the air fryer delivers perfectly flaky fish every time. Just season, place in the basket, and let the air fryer work its magic for delicious results straight from frozen.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook frozen fish in the air fryer—no thawing needed for quick, crispy results.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and optimal texture every time.
• Lightly oil the basket to prevent sticking and enhance browning during cooking.
• Cook in a single layer for consistent heat circulation and perfectly cooked fish.
• Adjust time and temperature based on thickness—start at 375°F for 10–15 minutes.
• Flip halfway through to achieve uniform crispiness on both sides effortlessly.
• Check internal temperature to ensure it reaches 145°F for safe, flaky fish.

Can I Cook Frozen Fish in the Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

Let’s be honest: we’ve all been there. You’re standing in front of the freezer at 6 p.m., staring at a bag of frozen fish fillets, wondering if there’s any way to turn them into a delicious, crispy dinner without thawing, without the mess of oil, and without waiting an hour. That’s when the air fryer—our modern kitchen superhero—steps in. But can you really cook frozen fish in the air fryer? The short answer: yes, and it’s easier than you think.

I remember the first time I tried it. I had a bag of frozen tilapia fillets and zero time. I popped them straight into the air fryer, set it to 380°F, and crossed my fingers. Ten minutes later, I pulled out flaky, golden-brown fish with a satisfying crunch—no thawing, no greasy stovetop, and no stress. That moment changed my weeknight dinners forever. If you’ve ever wondered whether your air fryer can handle frozen fish, you’re not alone. This guide is for anyone who wants quick, healthy, and flavorful meals with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who hates waiting for food to defrost, this is your go-to resource.

Why the Air Fryer Is Perfect for Frozen Fish

You might be thinking, “Wait, can you really cook something straight from the freezer?” The truth is, air fryers are designed for this kind of convenience. Unlike traditional ovens or stovetops, they use rapid hot air circulation to cook food quickly and evenly. This makes them ideal for frozen foods—especially delicate items like fish.

How Air Fryers Work (Without the Science Lecture)

Think of your air fryer as a mini convection oven. A powerful fan circulates hot air around the food, creating a crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist. This process, called the Maillard reaction, is what gives your fish that golden, restaurant-style crust. Because the air moves so fast, it can cook frozen items faster than a regular oven, which often requires preheating and longer cook times.

Benefits of Cooking Frozen Fish in the Air Fryer

• No thawing required: Skip the 30-minute wait (or the risk of forgetting to thaw overnight).
• Faster cooking time: Most frozen fish fillets cook in 10–15 minutes.
• Less mess: No oil splatter or greasy pans. Cleanup is usually just a wipe-down.
• Healthier results: You can achieve a crispy texture with little to no oil—perfect for low-fat diets.
• Energy-efficient: Air fryers use less power than ovens and heat up instantly.

I’ve tried this with everything from cod and salmon to breaded fish sticks and even frozen shrimp. The consistency? Impressive. One time, I forgot to take my salmon out of the freezer, and instead of panicking, I just air-fried it. It came out tender inside with a light, flaky crust—no one could tell it was frozen.

Best Types of Frozen Fish to Cook in the Air Fryer

Not all frozen fish are created equal—and some work better than others in the air fryer. The key is knowing which types are designed for quick, high-heat cooking. Here’s a breakdown of what works (and what might need a little extra care).

Fillets (Skin-On or Skin-Off)

Frozen fish fillets—like cod, haddock, halibut, or tilapia—are your best bet. They’re uniform in thickness, so they cook evenly. I prefer skin-on fillets when possible because the skin crisps up beautifully, adding texture and flavor. But if you don’t like skin, no problem—skin-off fillets work great too.

Pro tip: If your fillets are stuck together, don’t force them apart. Cook them in a single layer, and they’ll usually separate as they cook. Just give them a gentle nudge with tongs halfway through.

Breaded or Battered Fish

Love fish sticks or frozen fish nuggets? The air fryer is your new best friend. These are already seasoned and coated, so they crisp up perfectly with minimal oil. I’ve made store-bought breaded cod fillets in under 12 minutes, and they tasted better than the ones I’ve had at casual seafood chains.

Example: I tried a brand of frozen panko-crusted cod. I sprayed them lightly with avocado oil (about 1/2 tsp per fillet), air-fried at 375°F for 10 minutes, flipped them, and cooked another 5 minutes. The result? Crispy, golden crust with juicy, flaky fish inside—no sogginess.

Salmon (Skin-On Preferred)

Frozen salmon can be tricky if it’s too thick, but most 6-ounce portions work great. Skin-on salmon is ideal because the skin acts like a barrier, preventing the fish from drying out. I’ve found that wild-caught salmon holds up better than farmed in the air fryer due to its leaner texture.

Tip: If your salmon is thicker than 1 inch, consider slicing it in half lengthwise before cooking to ensure even doneness.

Fish Steaks (Like Swordfish or Tuna)

Thicker cuts like swordfish or tuna steaks can work, but they need more time. I recommend cutting them into smaller pieces (about 1-inch thick) or cooking at a slightly lower temperature (360°F) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frozen Shrimp (Bonus!)

While not fish, frozen shrimp cook beautifully in the air fryer. Just make sure they’re not coated in a thick batter (like tempura), as that can burn. Plain or lightly seasoned shrimp? Perfect. Cook at 375°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.

Caution: Avoid frozen fish with thick, heavy coatings (like tempura or extra-breaded varieties) unless you’re okay with a slightly softer crust. The air fryer can’t replicate deep-frying, but it gets close!

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Frozen Fish in the Air Fryer

Now that you know what works, let’s get to the fun part—cooking! This method is so simple, you’ll wonder why you ever waited to thaw your fish.

Step 1: Prep Your Air Fryer

No need to preheat, but if your model has a preheat setting, go for it. Otherwise, just make sure the basket is clean and lightly oiled (if needed). I use a light spray of avocado or olive oil on the basket for breaded fish to prevent sticking. For plain fillets, it’s usually not necessary.

Step 2: Arrange the Fish

Place the frozen fish in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd! Air needs to circulate for even cooking. If you’re cooking multiple fillets, you might need to do two batches. Overcrowding leads to steaming, not crisping—and nobody wants soggy fish.

Example: I have a 5.8-quart air fryer, and I can fit three 6-ounce cod fillets comfortably. Four is pushing it, so I save the fourth for the next batch.

Step 3: Lightly Oil (Optional but Recommended)

For breaded or seasoned fish, a light spray or brush of oil helps achieve that golden, crispy crust. For plain fillets, you can skip it or use a tiny bit (1/2 tsp) to enhance browning. I like using avocado oil because it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor.

Step 4: Set Temperature and Time

This is where it gets flexible. Here’s a quick reference:

Fish Type	Temperature	Cook Time	Notes
Plain fillets (cod, tilapia)	375–380°F	10–12 minutes	Flip halfway
Breaded/battered fillets	375°F	10–12 minutes	Flip halfway; spray with oil
Salmon (skin-on)	375°F	12–15 minutes	Flip halfway; skin side down first
Fish sticks/nuggets	380°F	8–10 minutes	Shake basket halfway
Shrimp (frozen, plain)	375°F	6–8 minutes	Flip halfway

Step 5: Flip and Check

After half the time has passed, open the basket and flip the fish with tongs or a spatula. This ensures even browning. If the fish looks too pale, you can add 1–2 more minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: fish should reach 145°F internally. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Fish loses its crispiness fast, so serve it right away. I love pairing it with a quick lemon-dill aioli, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, try a mango salsa or garlic butter drizzle.

Pro tip: If you’re cooking for picky eaters, let them customize their plate. My kids love air-fried fish sticks with ketchup and sweet potato fries—all cooked together in the air fryer!

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Even the best air fryer users make mistakes. Here are the most common ones—and how to fix them.

Overcrowding the Basket

This is the #1 error. When fish is piled up, it steams instead of crisps. The result? Soggy, unevenly cooked fish. Always use a single layer, even if it means cooking in batches. Trust me, the wait is worth it.

Skipping the Flip

Air fryers cook from all sides, but flipping ensures both sides get that golden crust. I’ve made the mistake of not flipping and ended up with one pale, undercooked side. Now I set a timer to remind me.

Using Too Much Oil

It’s tempting to drench the fish, but too much oil can drip and smoke. A light spray or brush is all you need. If your fish is already breaded, it usually doesn’t need extra oil.

Setting the Wrong Temperature

Too high, and the outside burns before the inside cooks. Too low, and it’s mushy. Stick to 375–380°F for most fish. For thicker cuts, go lower (360°F) and cook longer.

Not Checking for Doneness

Frozen fish can be deceiving. The outside might look done, but the center could still be icy. Always use a meat thermometer or cut a small piece to check. Remember: 145°F is the safe internal temperature.

Ignoring the Brand of Fish

Not all frozen fish is equal. Some brands have more water or thicker coatings. If your fish is coming out soggy, try a different brand. I’ve had great luck with Sea Cuisine and Blue Horizon for breaded fillets, and Trader Joe’s for plain fillets.

Creative Ideas and Flavor Boosts

Once you master the basics, it’s time to get creative. The air fryer isn’t just for plain fish—it’s a flavor playground.

Seasoning Before Cooking

Even frozen fish benefits from a little seasoning. Sprinkle with:

• Old Bay (great for cod and salmon)
• Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika
• Lemon pepper (perfect with tilapia)
• Smoked salt and dill (for a Scandinavian vibe)

I like to mix my seasonings with a tiny bit of oil and brush it on before cooking. It helps the spices stick and adds moisture.

Marinades (Yes, Even for Frozen Fish!)

You can marinate frozen fish before air frying. Just place it in a ziplock bag with your marinade (lemon juice, soy sauce, herbs, etc.) and let it sit for 15–30 minutes at room temperature. Don’t marinate too long—the acid can start to “cook” the fish.

Example: I once marinated frozen salmon in a mix of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and honey. After 20 minutes, I air-fried it at 375°F for 14 minutes. The result? A sticky, savory glaze with crispy edges—like a mini Asian-inspired feast.

Toppings and Sauces

Don’t stop at cooking. Add flavor after:

• Drizzle with melted garlic butter
• Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro
• Add a squeeze of lemon or lime
• Top with a spoonful of tartar sauce, remoulade, or chimichurri

Pairing with Sides

The air fryer is great for sides too! Cook frozen fish alongside:

• Frozen french fries or tater tots (cook together at 380°F)
• Frozen veggies (add 3–5 minutes to fish cook time)
• Frozen corn on the cob (wrap in foil and cook with fish)

I love making a “seafood basket” with fish, shrimp, and scallops—all cooked together at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. Just flip halfway!

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can—And You Should!

So, can you cook frozen fish in the air fryer? Absolutely. It’s fast, easy, and consistently delicious. Whether you’re cooking a simple weeknight dinner or impressing guests with crispy fish tacos, the air fryer delivers.

From my own kitchen experiments, I’ve learned that this method works best with uniform, medium-thickness fillets. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution for every frozen fish product, but for 90% of what you’ll find in the freezer aisle, it’s a game-changer. The key is paying attention to time, temperature, and spacing—and not being afraid to experiment.

And here’s the best part: you don’t need to be a chef. You just need a few frozen fillets, an air fryer, and a little confidence. The next time you’re staring at your freezer, wondering what to make, remember: you’ve got this. Pop that fish in, set the timer, and enjoy a meal that’s crispy, flaky, and ready in minutes—no thawing, no fuss, no stress.

Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook frozen fish in the air fryer without thawing?

Yes, you can cook frozen fish directly in the air fryer—no thawing required. This method saves time and often yields crispy, evenly cooked results when done at 375–400°F (190–200°C).

How long does it take to cook frozen fish in the air fryer?

Most frozen fish fillets or portions take 12–18 minutes in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C), flipping halfway through. Cooking time varies slightly based on thickness and the air fryer model.

Do I need to adjust the air fryer settings for frozen fish?

Yes, for best results, preheat the air fryer and cook frozen fish at 375–400°F (190–200°C). Increase cooking time by 2–4 minutes compared to fresh fish to ensure it’s fully cooked and flaky.

Can I use the air fryer to cook breaded frozen fish?

Absolutely! The air fryer is perfect for breaded frozen fish like fish sticks or battered fillets. Spray lightly with oil for extra crispiness and cook for 10–14 minutes, flipping once.

Is cooking frozen fish in the air fryer healthier than frying?

Yes, air frying frozen fish uses little to no oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying. It retains moisture while achieving a crispy texture with fewer calories and less fat.

What type of frozen fish works best in the air fryer?

Thinner fillets (like tilapia, cod, or salmon) and pre-breaded options (fish sticks, popcorn shrimp) cook well in the air fryer. Thicker cuts may need slightly longer cook times to avoid dryness.