1. Prepare the Fish Fillets

Start by patting the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial to ensure that the panko breadcrumbs adhere properly and that the fish crisps up evenly during cooking.

If your fillets have skin, you can choose to remove it or leave it on, depending on your preference. Skinless fillets tend to be easier to eat, while fillets with skin offer added flavor and texture.

Next, cut the fillets into the desired portion sizes, if necessary. If you are using large fillets, you may want to cut them into smaller, more manageable pieces for easier cooking and serving.

2. Prepare the Dredging Station

In three shallow bowls, set up your dredging station:

• Bowl 1: Place the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This dry mixture will help the egg wash adhere to the fish.
• Bowl 2: Beat the egg in a separate bowl. This will act as the binder for the breadcrumbs.
• Bowl 3: Place the panko breadcrumbs. If you prefer an extra-crispy coating, you can also mix in a bit of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and texture.

Make sure the bowls are wide enough to easily dip the fish fillets into each mixture.

3. Dredge the Fish Fillets

Take each fish fillet and coat it in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour, then dip the fillet into the beaten egg. Allow any excess egg to drip off before transferring the fillet to the panko breadcrumbs.

Press the fillet into the breadcrumbs to ensure an even coating, making sure all sides of the fish are covered. The panko breadcrumbs will create the signature crispy coating once the fish is air-fried.

Repeat this process with all the fillets until they are all coated in flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the fish fillets cook evenly and get that crispy, golden brown texture.

If your air fryer does not have a preheat function, simply let it run for about 3-5 minutes before adding the fish fillets.

5. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the fish fillets from sticking. You can also use a parchment paper liner designed for the air fryer to make cleanup easier.

If you’re cooking in batches, make sure to leave enough space between the fillets in the basket to allow for proper air circulation, which will help them cook evenly.

6. Air Fry the Fish Fillets

Place the dredged fish fillets in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-18 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Flip the fillets halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides become golden brown and crispy.

The fish fillets are done when they are crispy on the outside and easily flake apart with a fork. If you’re unsure whether the fish is fully cooked, use a food thermometer. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C).

7. Check for Doneness and Serve

Once the fish fillets are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. If desired, you can garnish the fish fillets with freshly chopped parsley or serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Serve the crispy fish fillets immediately with your favorite sides.