Lent season rolls around and suddenly everyone’s asking the same question: “Okay, but what are we eating for dinner?” If you’re tired of sad baked fish or pan-frying disasters that leave your kitchen smelling… aggressive, I’ve got you. These easy air fryer fish recipes are crispy, flavorful, and actually exciting—yes, even on a meatless Friday.
The air fryer does all the heavy lifting here. Less oil, faster cook times, and minimal cleanup. IMO, that’s already a win. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping for the week, or just trying not to order takeout again, these recipes make Lent feel less restrictive and way more delicious.
If you’re already in air fryer mode, you might as well make the most of it. Fish is just the beginning when it comes to meatless Fridays. If you’re craving something a little different (but still Lent-approved), check out my 12 Air Fryer Shrimp Recipes for Meatless Fridays—they’re fast, juicy, and honestly feel like cheating in the best way.
And if fish isn’t happening tonight, no stress. I also put together 15 Vegetarian Air Fryer Meals for Lent that are hearty enough to keep you full without missing the meat. Because let’s be real—nobody wants to be hungry an hour later.
Ready to make fish Fridays something you actually look forward to? Let’s eat. 🙂
1. Crispy Air Fryer Breaded Cod
Why it’s awesome: Golden, crunchy, and way better than frozen fish sticks (no offense to childhood nostalgia).
Ingredients
- Cod fillets
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Eggs
- Salt & pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat the cod dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Whisk eggs in one bowl; mix panko, parmesan, and spices in another.
- Dip cod in egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
Why You’ll Love It
This one nails that crispy-on-the-outside, flaky-on-the-inside vibe. I’ve served this to people who “don’t like fish,” and somehow they went back for seconds. Coincidence? I think not.
2. Air Fryer Lemon Garlic Tilapia
Why it’s awesome: Light, zesty, and ridiculously fast. Weeknight hero status.
Ingredients
- Tilapia fillets
- Fresh lemon juice
- Garlic (minced)
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and seasoning.
- Brush mixture over tilapia.
- Air fry at 380°F for 8–10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It
Bright, fresh flavors without feeling boring. FYI—don’t skip the lemon zest if you have it. I tried once, and yeah… noticeable regret.
3. Air Fryer Honey Mustard Salmon
Why it’s awesome: Sweet, tangy, and feels way fancier than it is.
Ingredients
- Salmon fillets
- Dijon mustard
- Honey
- Soy sauce
- Garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Whisk honey, mustard, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
- Brush over salmon.
- Air fry at 390°F for 10–12 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It
That glaze caramelizes just enough to make you feel like a pro. I once overcooked this while multitasking—still good, but don’t be me.
4. Cajun Air Fryer Catfish
Why it’s awesome: Bold, spicy, and full of Southern comfort vibes.
Ingredients
- Catfish fillets
- Cajun seasoning
- Cornmeal
- Olive oil spray
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Coat catfish lightly with oil.
- Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning and cornmeal.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping once.
Why You’ll Love It
Crunchy edges, tender middle, zero grease splatter. Add hot sauce if you’re brave. Or reckless.
Quick side note—if you’re loving these flavors but want to switch things up, salmon deserves its own moment. I rounded up 8 Air Fryer Salmon Recipes That Feel Gourmet, and yes, they sound fancy but stay very weeknight-friendly. Think crispy edges, flaky centers, and zero chef stress.
5. Air Fryer Fish Tacos (Lent Edition)
Why it’s awesome: Tacos on a Friday? Always yes.
Ingredients
- White fish (cod or pollock)
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Garlic powder
- Tortillas
- Cabbage slaw
- Lime crema
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season fish with spices.
- Air fry at 390°F for 8–10 minutes.
- Flake fish and assemble tacos with slaw and crema.
Why You’ll Love It
These taste like they came from a beachside food truck. Some people add mango salsa, but honestly? It steals the spotlight from the fish—just saying.
Also, if you’re cooking for little ones (or picky adults who act like little ones), you’ll want to bookmark 10 Kid-Friendly Air Fryer Seafood Recipes. These are the meals that don’t get side-eyed at the dinner table.
6. Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Halibut
Why it’s awesome: Mild, buttery fish with a crispy cheese crust. Elite combo.
Ingredients
- Halibut fillets
- Grated parmesan
- Breadcrumbs
- Butter (melted)
- Garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix parmesan, breadcrumbs, and garlic powder.
- Brush halibut with butter and press coating on top.
- Air fry at 400°F for 9–11 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe feels restaurant-level without the bill. I swapped parmesan for asiago once—never again. Parmesan wins.
7. Air Fryer Teriyaki Glazed Fish
Why it’s awesome: Sweet-savory magic with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- White fish fillets
- Teriyaki sauce
- Sesame oil
- Green onions
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brush fish with teriyaki and sesame oil.
- Air fry at 380°F for 9–10 minutes.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Why You’ll Love It
Perfect over rice or tucked into a bowl situation. Plus, it reheats shockingly well for leftovers.
8. Air Fryer Mediterranean Fish
Why it’s awesome: Fresh, herby, and perfect if you’re craving something lighter.
Ingredients
- Sea bass or cod
- Olive oil
- Oregano
- Garlic
- Cherry tomatoes
- Olives
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season fish with oil, garlic, and oregano.
- Add tomatoes and olives around the fish.
- Air fry at 390°F for 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It
It tastes like vacation food. Some folks overload the olives—don’t. Balance matters.
9. Air Fryer Coconut Crusted Fish
Why it’s awesome: Crispy, tropical, and a total mood lifter.
Ingredients
- White fish fillets
- Shredded coconut
- Panko
- Eggs
- Salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Dip fish in egg.
- Coat with coconut and panko mixture.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It
Crunchy and slightly sweet without being dessert-level. Pair with chili sauce and thank me later.
10. Air Fryer Garlic Butter Fish Bites
Why it’s awesome: Bite-sized, snackable, and dangerously easy to eat.
Ingredients
- Firm white fish
- Butter
- Garlic
- Parsley
- Lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cut fish into chunks.
- Toss with melted butter, garlic, and lemon.
- Air fry at 400°F for 8–9 minutes.
Why You’ll Love It
Perfect for kids, parties, or solo snacking straight off the tray :/. I regret nothing.
Final Thoughts: Lent, But Make It Delicious
Here’s the thing—Lent fish recipes don’t have to feel like a sacrifice. With an air fryer, you get crispy textures, bold flavors, and meals that come together faster than you can say “Is it Friday already?”
By now, your air fryer is basically earning MVP status. If you want to keep the momentum going all Lent long, bounce between these fish recipes, the shrimp recipes for meatless Fridays, and the vegetarian air fryer Lent meals so dinner never feels repetitive.
And when you’re craving something that feels a little extra—but still fits the season—those gourmet-style salmon recipes are always a solid move. Mix, match, repeat. That’s the strategy.
From tacos to parmesan crusts to sweet glazes, these easy air fryer fish recipes prove that meatless meals can still bring big flavor. Bookmark this list, rotate a few favorites, and suddenly Lent feels a lot more fun—and way more tasty.
Now tell me… which one are you making first? 😉
