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Crispy Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Chipotle Slaw

Crispy Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Chipotle Slaw

These Air Fryer Fish Tacos are the perfect combination of crispy, flavorful, and fresh. The air fryer creates golden, crunchy fish without deep frying, while the creamy chipotle slaw adds a smoky, tangy kick that ties everything together.
Quick to make and easy to customize, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Serve with your favorite toppings and sides for a satisfying meal that feels both light and indulgent.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican, Tex-Mex
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 430 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Fish

  • 1 lb white fish, cod, tilapia, or mahi mahi
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or oil spray

For the Chipotle Slaw

  • 3 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
  • cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  • Small corn or flour tortillas
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Optional: sliced avocado, pico de gallo, or jalapeños

Instructions
 

Prep the Fish

  • Pat the fish dry with paper towels and cut into evenly sized strips.

Set Up Breading Station

  • Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with paprika, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Bread the Fish

  • Dip each piece of fish into the flour, then egg, then coat in the seasoned panko. Press gently so the coating sticks.

Preheat the Air Fryer

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes.

Cook the Fish

  • Place fish in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with oil.
  • Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Make the Chipotle Slaw

  • In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, lime juice, and honey.
  • Add shredded cabbage and toss until well coated. Season to taste.

Warm the Tortillas

  • Heat tortillas in a skillet or over a flame until soft and warm.

Assemble the Tacos

  • Add crispy fish to each tortilla, top with chipotle slaw, and finish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

Serve Immediately

  • Enjoy while the fish is hot and crispy.
Keyword Air Fryer Fish Tacos