Air Fryer Fish and Chips

Air Fryer Fish and Chips is a delicious way to enjoy this classic British favourite at home, with crispy golden fish and perfectly cooked chips using much less oil than traditional deep-frying. Made with flaky white fish, a crunchy breadcrumb coating, and homemade potato chips, this easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed Friday-night meal. Serve it with tartar sauce, mushy peas, and a squeeze of fresh lemon for the ultimate fish and chips experience!

Key Ingredients

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make homemade air fryer fish and chips. The secret is choosing the right fish, preparing the potatoes properly, and using a light coating of oil to help everything turn golden and crispy.

Ingredients for the Fish

• 2 white fish fillets: Cod, haddock, or pollock are excellent choices. Choose boneless fillets of similar thickness so they cook evenly.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: Helps the egg and breadcrumb coating stick to the fish.
• 1 large egg: Beaten with a tablespoon of water or milk to create a coating for the breadcrumbs.
• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs: Panko creates a light, crunchy exterior. Regular breadcrumbs also work.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds colour and mild flavour.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Gives the coating a savoury taste.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavour of the fish.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little warmth.
• Olive oil spray: Helps the breadcrumb coating become golden and crisp.

Ingredients for the Chips

• 2 medium-large potatoes: Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes are excellent choices for traditional British-style chips. Russet potatoes also work well.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the chips crisp up in the air fryer.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Season to taste.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Optional, for extra flavour.
• ½ teaspoon paprika or garlic powder: Optional, if you enjoy seasoned chips.

Optional Ingredients for Serving

• Fresh lemon wedges
• Tartar sauce
• Mushy peas
• Malt vinegar
• Fresh parsley
• Ketchup or mayonnaise

Ingredient tip: If you want your chips to be fluffy inside and crispy outside, choose a floury potato variety. For the fish, fresh or completely thawed fillets work well, provided they are patted dry before coating.

How to Make Fish and Chips in the Air Fryer

This recipe uses a simple breadcrumb coating for the fish and freshly cut potatoes for the chips. Because fish cooks faster than potatoes, you’ll start cooking the chips first and add the fish later.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and peel the potatoes if desired. Cut them into evenly sized chips, approximately ½ inch (1–1.5 cm) thick.

Place the chips in a bowl of cold water and soak for 20–30 minutes. This helps remove some of the surface starch, which can improve crispness.

Drain the potatoes and pat them thoroughly dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture is essential for crispy chips.

Step 2: Season the Chips

Place the dried chips in a bowl and toss them with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings.

Make sure the chips are lightly coated rather than soaked in oil. Too much oil can make them greasy instead of crisp.

Step 3: Start Cooking the Chips

Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 minutes, if recommended by your appliance manufacturer.

Arrange the chips in the basket in a reasonably loose layer. If necessary, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Air fry for approximately 15–22 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes. The exact time depends on the thickness of the chips and your air fryer.

When the chips are starting to become golden and tender, move on to preparing the fish. They can continue cooking while you coat the fillets.

Step 4: Prepare the Fish

Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Removing surface moisture helps the coating adhere and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Set out three shallow bowls:

• In the first bowl, add the flour.
• In the second bowl, whisk the egg with a tablespoon of water or milk.
• In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Coat each fish fillet in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, then press it gently into the seasoned breadcrumbs until fully coated.

For a crispier finish, make sure the breadcrumbs cover the sides and edges of each fillet.

Step 5: Add the Fish to the Air Fryer

Once the chips are nearly cooked, transfer them to one side of the basket if there is enough room, or briefly remove them and finish them separately.

Place the coated fish fillets in the basket in a single layer. Leave space around each piece so the hot air can circulate.

Lightly spray the breadcrumb coating with olive oil spray. This helps the surface turn golden without requiring deep-frying.

Step 6: Air Fry the Fish

Cook the fish at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 8–12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

For even cooking, check the fish near the halfway point. Thin fillets may cook faster, so avoid relying on time alone.

The fish is ready when the coating is golden and crisp, the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

If your air fryer basket is too small to fit the fish and chips together comfortably, cook them separately. You can keep the finished chips warm while the fish cooks.

Step 7: Finish the Chips

Check that the chips are golden, crisp on the outside, and tender in the middle. If they need extra colour, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for another 2–3 minutes, watching closely.

Season with a little extra salt while they are hot.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the crispy fish and chips on plates and serve immediately with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, and mushy peas.

For a traditional British touch, add a splash of malt vinegar to the chips. You can also serve the meal with ketchup, mayonnaise, or homemade garlic sauce.

Important cooking tip: Air fryer models vary, and cooking times depend on the size of the food and the amount in the basket. Check the fish and chips separately for doneness rather than assuming they will finish at exactly the same time.

Leftovers and Reheating

Air fryer fish and chips taste best when freshly cooked, but leftovers can still be delicious if stored and reheated properly.

How to Store Leftover Fish and Chips

Allow the fish and chips to cool briefly, then transfer them to separate airtight containers.

Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking and use within 3–4 days. Keeping the fish separate from the chips helps prevent moisture from the fish from softening the potatoes.

For the best quality, avoid stacking the fish while it is still hot, as trapped steam can soften the breadcrumb coating.

How to Reheat Fish in the Air Fryer

The air fryer is an excellent way to bring back some of the crispness in leftover breaded fish.

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), if recommended.
2. Place the fish in a single layer in the basket.
3. Heat for approximately 3–6 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
4. Check that the centre is thoroughly hot before serving.

If the coating begins to brown too quickly, lower the temperature slightly and continue heating until the fish is hot throughout.

How to Reheat Chips in the Air Fryer

To reheat leftover chips:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350–375°F (175–190°C).
2. Spread the chips in a single layer.
3. Cook for approximately 3–5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. Add another minute or two if needed to restore their crispness.

Avoid overcrowding the basket, as the chips may warm through without becoming crispy.

Can You Freeze Leftover Fish and Chips?

You can freeze cooked fish and chips, although the texture may change after thawing and reheating. For the best quality, cool the food promptly, package it in freezer-safe containers, and freeze it as soon as possible.

Reheat from frozen only if your appliance and reheating method allow it, adding time as needed and checking that the centre is thoroughly hot. Do not leave cooked fish at room temperature to thaw.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook fish and chips together in an air fryer?

Yes, if your air fryer has enough space and the basket allows good air circulation. However, chips usually take longer to cook than fish. Start the chips first and add the fish later, or cook them separately for the best results.

What temperature is best for air fryer fish and chips?

For this recipe, start the chips at 380°F (193°C) and cook the breaded fish at 400°F (200°C). Adjust the temperature and timing according to the thickness of the food and your air fryer model.

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

Breaded white fish fillets generally take around 8–12 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Thinner fillets may cook faster, while thicker pieces may need more time. Fish should reach 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.

How long do homemade chips take in the air fryer?

Freshly cut chips usually take around 15–22 minutes at 380°F (193°C), depending on their thickness and the type of potato. Shake the basket regularly and cook for a few extra minutes if needed.

Which fish is best for air fryer fish and chips?

Cod and haddock are classic choices because they have a mild flavour and flaky white flesh. Pollock is another good option and is often more affordable. Choose fillets of similar thickness for more even cooking.

Do I need to soak potatoes before air frying chips?

Soaking is recommended but not essential. Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for 20–30 minutes helps remove some surface starch, which can improve crispness. Always drain and dry them thoroughly before adding oil.

How do I make the fish extra crispy?

Pat the fish dry before coating it, use panko breadcrumbs, and lightly spray the coating with oil. Avoid overcrowding the basket, and cook until the breadcrumb crust is golden and the fish reaches a safe internal temperature.

Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, but the best method depends on whether the fish is raw, breaded, or already cooked. For this homemade breadcrumb recipe, completely thawed, raw fish fillets are easiest to coat evenly. If using frozen ready-breaded fish, follow the package instructions and check that it is thoroughly cooked.

Can I make air fryer fish and chips without breadcrumbs?

Yes. You can coat the fish in seasoned flour for a simpler crust, although the result will be different from a breadcrumb coating. For a gluten-free version, use suitable gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Why are my air fryer chips soggy?

The potatoes may be wet, the basket may be overcrowded, or too much moisture may be trapped between the chips. Soak them if possible, dry them thoroughly, use a light coating of oil, and cook in batches when necessary.

What should I serve with air fryer fish and chips?

Traditional options include mushy peas, tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and malt vinegar. You can also serve the meal with coleslaw, a green salad, roasted vegetables, or homemade curry sauce.

How do I keep the fish and chips warm while cooking in batches?

Place the finished food on a wire rack in a warm oven while the remaining batches cook. Avoid covering the fish tightly, as trapped steam can soften the crispy coating.

Is air fryer fish and chips healthier than deep-fried fish and chips?

Air frying usually requires much less added oil than deep-frying, which can reduce the amount of fat used in cooking. The overall nutritional value still depends on the fish, coating, potatoes, oil, and portion size.

Air Fryer Fish and Chips is an easy way to enjoy a British classic at home. With crispy homemade chips, flaky seasoned fish, and your favourite traditional sides, it’s a satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or a homemade Friday-night treat.

Air Fryer Fish & Chips Recipe

Print Recipe

This Air Fryer Fish and Chips recipe comes out crispy and delicious every time. Golden, flaky white fish is paired with homemade fries for an easy air fryer meal that’s made with with less oil than traditional frying. 

• Author: Julia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 5
• Category: Main
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the chips

• 3 russet potatoes, about 1 1/2 pounds, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch long slices
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the fish

• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour, divided
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 8-10 ounces beer, I used a light lager
• 1 pound cod fish, about 5 filets, the smaller the filets the better, patted dry with paper towels VERY WELL

Instructions

1. Soak the potatoes in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes, and up to 3 hours. If soaking for longer than 30 minutes, change the water at least once during the soak time.
2. To make the homemade fries, drain the water from the potatoes and dry them very well with a towel. Spray the basket of your air fryer generously with cooking oil spray. Place the fries in the basket and spray the tops with more oil.
3. Air fry the potatoes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 7 minutes. Toss, then fry again for 7 more minutes or until the fries are golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Remove to a serving dish and cover with aluminum foil to keep warm.
4. To make the fish, whisk ½ cup of the flour and all of the cornstarch together in a shallow bowl. In a separate large bowl, stir together the remaining 1 cup of flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and baking soda. Pour in the beer and whisk to combine.
5. Dredge each piece of fish in the flour mixture, then submerge each in the batter, dripping off any excess batter. Place the fish pieces back in the flour mixture and sprinkle with more flour to fully coat, shaking off excess.
6. Place a sheet of parchment paper in the basket of your air fryer and generously spray it with cooking oil spray. Carefully place the coated fish into the basket. The fish pieces can be touching but not overlapping.
7. Spray the tops of the fish VERY WELL with cooking oil spray (you want them to be thoroughly coated) then air fry at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 minutes. Open the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking time and spray the fish again very well, then finish air frying.
8. Serve the fish and chips with freshly minced parsley and lemon slices for garnish, along with tartar sauce and ketchup for dipping, if desired.
9. *Make sure to read all of the tips below!