Smoky Paprika Fried Fish

A main course dish featuring firm white fish fillets coated in a seasoned panko crust with smoked paprika, garlic, and oregano, cooked in an air fryer until golden and crispy. The recipe is easy, requires minimal effort, and offers a moderate flavor intensity with a hint of heat.

Ingredients

• 2 (6-ounce) fillets of firm white fish (e.g., cod, haddock, or halibut), patted completely dry
• ½ cup all-purpose flour (or use gluten-free 1:1 flour for a GF option)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil)
• Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving, optional)
• Tartar sauce or remoulade (for serving, optional)
• Side salad (for serving, optional)

Instructions

1. Pat fish fillets completely dry with paper towels. If fillets are very thick, cut them in half lengthwise to ensure even cooking.
2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: Bowl 1 with flour, Bowl 2 with beaten egg, and Bowl 3 with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge a fish fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the floured fillet into the beaten egg, letting excess drip back. Press the fillet firmly into the seasoned panko mixture, ensuring the entire surface is well coated and crumbs adhere. Repeat with the remaining fillet.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded fish fillets in the basket in a single layer without overlapping. Lightly spray the tops of the fish fillets with cooking spray.
6. Air fry for 10 to 14 minutes depending on thickness (9 minutes for ¾ inch thick, 14 minutes for 1-1.5 inches thick). At the halfway point (5-6 minutes), flip the fish and spray the other side. Cook until golden brown, crisp, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove the fish from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute. Serve immediately with lemon juice and fresh parsley.

Notes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving/1 fillet): ~380 kcal, 10g Total Fat, 2g Saturated Fat, 145mg Cholesterol, 780mg Sodium, 28g Total Carbohydrate, 2g Dietary Fiber, 2g Sugars, 38g Protein. Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific type of fish, breadcrumbs, and serving size.