Air Fryer Fish Tacos (Print)

Crispy fish with vibrant cabbage slaw and creamy sauce served in warm tortillas for a fresh meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fish

01 - 1 lb white fish fillets (cod or tilapia), cut into strips
02 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
07 - 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
08 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
09 - Olive oil spray

→ Cabbage Slaw

10 - 2 cups shredded green cabbage
11 - 1 cup shredded red cabbage
12 - 1/4 cup grated carrot
13 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
14 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
15 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
16 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
17 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Creamy Sauce

18 - 1/3 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
19 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
20 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
21 - 1 teaspoon hot sauce, optional
22 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ To Serve

23 - 8 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
24 - Lime wedges
25 - Extra fresh cilantro for garnish

# Directions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine green cabbage, red cabbage, carrot, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss well and refrigerate until ready to use.
02 - Place flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in one bowl; beaten eggs in a second bowl; and panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
03 - Dredge each fish piece in the flour mixture, dip into the egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. Lightly spray both sides with olive oil.
04 - Arrange breaded fish strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
05 - In a small bowl, mix sour cream or yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, hot sauce if using, and season with salt and pepper.
06 - Layer slaw onto each tortilla, add crispy fish, and drizzle with creamy sauce. Garnish with extra cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and easy: Ready in just 32 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Light and crispy: The air fryer delivers a golden, crunchy coating without the excess oil of deep frying.
  • Vibrant flavors: A tangy cabbage slaw and creamy lime sauce add freshness and brightness to every bite.
  • Pescatarian-friendly: A satisfying main dish that works for a variety of dietary preferences.
  • Customizable: Easy to adapt with avocado, pickled onions, or a dairy-free sauce.
02 -
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter, protein-rich creamy sauce.
  • Mandoline slicer: Use one for ultra-thin cabbage strips that absorb the lime dressing beautifully.
  • Avocado and pickled onions: Try adding these toppings for extra flavor and texture.
  • Drink pairing: Pair with a crisp lager or light white wine to complement the zesty, fresh flavors.
  • Single layer is key: Always arrange fish strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even, golden cooking.
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