Make easy, flavorful air fryer fish tacos in just 15 minutes! This quick weeknight dinner uses cod and blackening seasoning for a tasty taco night switch-up.
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One of my ALL TIME FAVORITE blackened fish tacos comes from Tommy Bahama in Las Vegas. I had it there one summer, and it was sooo good, I knew I had to make it at home! These fish tacos have become one of my go-to easy weeknight dinners — quick, flavorful, and perfect for those warm summer nights.
I usually make them with cod, but sometimes I switch it up with catfish or salmon. Fish tacos are a nice change from the usual ground beef tacos, and they bring that bold, spicy flavor we love.
Now, let me tell you about my air fryer. I got a Cosori, and honestly, it’s been a game-changer. I don’t know why I waited so long to get one! It cooks the fish perfectly—crispy on the outside and juicy inside, with less mess and less time.
And if you don’t have blackening seasoning, no worries—you can use Cajun seasoning instead, and it still comes out fire!
Why you’ll love this recipe
- This blackened fish is perfectly seasoned with smoky, spicy blackened seasoning that you can taste in every bite.
- The air fryer makes it super easy—just toss the cod in and it’s ready in minutes!
- Everyone can make their fish tacos just how they like it—just add your favorite toppings.
- This is a great recipe for Taco Tuesday and weeknight family dinners.
Ingredients
- Cod: Cod is a mild and flaky white fish that works great for fish tacos. If you can’t find cod, you can also use another firm white fish like halibut or even catfish.
- Neutral Oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil. This helps the seasoning stick to the fish.
- Blackening or Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have any on hand, you can make your own. See our blackened seasoning recipe.
- Tortillas: You can use either flour or corn tortillas, depending on your preference. Warm them up in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them soft and pliable for folding.
How to Make Blackened Fish Tacos in the Air Fryer
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Spay the fish with cooking oil.
Step 2: Coat with blackening or Cajun seasoning.
Step 3: Spray the air fryer grate with nonstick spray. Arrange the fish in a single layer.
Step 4: Cook for 8–9 minutes, or until it reaches 140°F.
Step 5: Let the fish rest, then tuck into warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
What to Serve
Blackened cod fish tacos go great with bold, flavorful sides and toppings. We like to lean into those Caribbean flavors like:
- Mango or Pineapple Salsa – Sweet, juicy fruit salsa with a little heat! Chop mango or pineapple, mix with red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of jalapeño for a bright pop of flavor.
- Coconut Rice – Creamy coconut milk rice is a great side dish that complements the spicy fish and adds a tropical touch.
- Spicy Slaw – Shredded cabbage with a creamy, zesty dressing (think mayo, lime juice, a pinch of cayenne) gives crunch and freshness to balance out the bold seasoning.
- Avocado Crema – Blend avocado with a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt, lime juice, and a pinch of salt for a silky, tangy drizzle.
Tips for the Air Fryer Fish Tacos
- Frozen fish works too—just make sure to fully thaw and pat dry to prevent sogginess.
- Lay the fish pieces in a single layer with some space in between so the hot air can circulate. This ensures they cook evenly and get a nice crust.
- Fish cooks quickly! Use a thermometer to check that it reaches 140°F in the center, or flake a piece with a fork to see if it’s opaque and tender.
- Warm tortillas are easier to fold and taste better. Just a few seconds in a hot skillet or microwave makes them soft and pliable.
How to Store Leftovers
- Store leftover fish in an airtight container in the fridge.
- It’s best eaten within 2 days for the freshest flavor and texture.
- When ready to eat, reheat the fish in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to warm it through.
Commonly Asked Questions
Yep! You can swap cod for catfish, or even whiting—whatever you have on hand.
The blackened seasoning has a little heat, but it’s not too much. You can always use less if you like it milder.
Spray the basket with a little oil or nonstick spray first. This makes it easier to lift the fish out.
Nope! If you don’t have one, you can bake the fish in the oven at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes.
Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Blackened Cod
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 2 pounds cod sliced into strips or cubed
- Neutral cooking oil or spray
- 2 tablespoons blackening or Cajun seasoning plus more to taste
- Warm flour or corn tortillas
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This helps ensure the fish cooks quickly and gets a nice crust.
- Spray fish strips or cubes with neutral cooking oil until well coated. Sprinkle the blackening or Cajun seasoning all over the fish and mix again so every piece is covered with the spices.
- Spray the air fryer grate or basket with a little cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the fish pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Air fry for 8–9 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature of the fish reaches 140°F.
- Remove the fish from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep the fish juicy.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or in the microwave for a few seconds. Place a few pieces of fish in each tortilla and add your favorite toppings, like shredded cabbage, sliced avocado, salsa, or a squeeze of fresh lime.