Crispy Air-Fried Fish and Chips

Craving the satisfying crunch of classic fish and chips but dreading the greasy mess and lingering odor of deep-frying? You’re not alone! Many home cooks shy away from this beloved comfort food due to the hassle of managing hot oil, the inevitable splatter, and the cleanup. But what if you could achieve that same irresistible crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender, flaky interior without any of the fuss? Say hello to your new favorite weeknight hero: Air Fryer Fish & Chips. This recipe delivers all the authentic taste and texture you love, transformed into a healthier, easier-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s fast, simple, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Forget the deep fryer, the gallons of oil, and the endless scrubbing. With the magic of your air fryer, you can whip up perfectly crisp fish in less than 30 minutes, making this a truly weeknight-approved meal. And don’t even think about serving it without a generous dollop of creamy, tangy tartar sauce! For an elevated experience, try my Easy Homemade Tartar Sauce—it’s infinitely better than anything you can buy in a jar and truly completes this classic dish.

Imagine yourself strolling along a breezy boardwalk, the salty air filling your lungs, and a basket of perfectly cooked fish and chips in hand. That classic seaside vibe, complete with a newspaper-wrapped meal and a dash of vinegar, is exactly what this delicious air fryer recipe brings straight to your kitchen. It’s a culinary escape, offering all the nostalgic charm and incredible flavor of a beloved takeaway meal, but with the convenience and health benefits of home cooking.

Each bite of this air-fried delicacy transports you to a coastal haven, with the satisfying crunch of the breading giving way to tender, flaky fish. It’s comfort food redefined, proving that you don’t need a trip to the beach or a greasy restaurant to enjoy an authentic taste of the ocean. Pair it with a side of crispy fries, a squeeze of fresh lemon, and a generous serving of homemade tartar sauce, and you’ve got a meal that’s truly unforgettable.

What Are Fish and Chips? The Air Fryer Revolution

Fish and chips is a quintessential British dish, a culinary icon known worldwide. Traditionally, it consists of flaky white fish (like cod or haddock) dipped in a thick, flavorful batter, deep-fried until golden and crisp, and served alongside thick-cut potato chips (fries). It’s a meal that evokes seaside holidays, bustling pubs, and hearty comfort.

This recipe offers an innovative air fryer take on traditional fish and chips, meticulously crafted to replicate the best qualities of the classic without the need for a deep fryer. Here, tender white fish fillets – such as flounder, cod, or tilapia – are first patted dry and then perfectly dredged in a seasoned flour mixture. This foundational layer ensures the subsequent coatings adhere beautifully. Next, the fish is dipped into a light, tangy egg and buttermilk wash, which not only acts as a binder but also helps to tenderize the fish and keep it incredibly moist. Finally, each fillet is generously coated in a crispy breadcrumb mixture, robustly seasoned with the classic coastal flavor of Old Bay. The breaded fish then goes into the air fryer, where circulating hot air transforms it into a golden, crunchy masterpiece.

The result is a pub-style plate right from your kitchen: fish that boasts a remarkable crispiness on the outside and a succulent, flaky interior. Serve it up with a generous handful of perfectly cooked fries (whether homemade or your favorite frozen brand), a bright squeeze of lemon to cut through the richness, and a dollop of your preferred tartar sauce. Whether you’re preparing a quick, satisfying meal for one, a family dinner, or serving a crowd, this air fryer recipe is an absolute must-try. Even the pickiest eaters and teenagers will devour the juicy, flaky fish. What’s more, by utilizing the air fryer instead of deep-frying, this dish becomes a significantly healthier option, allowing you to indulge in this comforting classic with far less guilt.

No Deep Fryer Needed For This Crispy Fish! The Air Fryer Advantage

This air fryer fish stands as undeniable proof that you absolutely do not need a deep fryer to achieve perfectly crusted, incredibly crispy fish. The first time I experimented with this recipe, it was one of those evenings where I desperately craved something truly delicious and satisfying, but the thought of a complicated, multi-step cooking process was a complete deterrent. I had some flounder fillets waiting in the fridge and decided to take a chance, wondering if the air fryer could truly deliver the magic. Spoiler alert: it exceeded all expectations.

The fish emerged from the air fryer with an astonishingly crispy exterior, giving way to an exquisitely flaky and moist interior – all achieved without a single drop of bubbling oil, no risk of burns, and absolutely zero fuss. The discovery of how quickly this dish came together – a complete, hearty dinner in under 30 minutes – was a revelation. It effortlessly transitioned from a hopeful experiment to a permanent fixture in our regular weeknight dinner rotation. The air fryer not only simplifies the cooking process but also significantly reduces cleanup, eliminates lingering oil odors, and makes a traditionally indulgent meal much lighter. It’s a game-changer for anyone seeking convenience without compromising on flavor or texture, making that perfect golden crust more accessible than ever before.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Fish And Chips Recipe

This Air Fryer Fish and Chips recipe isn’t just another way to cook fish; it’s a culinary revelation that brings convenience, health, and incredible flavor to your table. Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for it:

Fuss-Free & Lightning Fast: Say goodbye to complicated recipes and hours in the kitchen. This dish is designed for modern life, coming together in under 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying meal, or for those cozy weekend comfort food cravings when you want deliciousness without the effort. Minimal prep, rapid cooking, and easy cleanup make it an unbeatable choice any day of the week.

Incredibly Crispy (Without the Grease): The air fryer is a marvel for achieving that coveted crunch. By circulating superheated air around the fish, it creates a perfectly golden-brown, crispy coating that rivals traditional deep-frying. You get all the satisfying texture and crunch of perfectly fried fish and chips, but without the excess grease, heavy oils, or guilt associated with traditional methods. No more soggy baked fish – just pure, unadulterated crispiness!

A Healthier Indulgence: One of the biggest advantages of air frying is the drastic reduction in oil used. This recipe allows you to enjoy a beloved comfort food with significantly less fat and fewer calories compared to its deep-fried counterpart. It’s a smart choice for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor or the joy of a classic meal. You can savor every bite, knowing you’re making a better choice for yourself and your family.

Remarkably Freezer-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping or when you have extra fish you want to cook up. You can prepare and cook a larger batch of fish, then easily freeze it for future meals. Simply flash freeze the cooked fillets, then store them for up to three months. When a craving strikes, just pop them back into the air fryer from frozen for a quick, delicious meal with minimal effort.

Versatile & Customizable: While the core recipe is a winner, it’s also incredibly versatile. You can experiment with different types of white fish, vary the seasonings in your breadcrumb mixture (think lemon pepper, smoked paprika, or a touch of cayenne for heat), or even swap out plain breadcrumbs for panko for an extra-crunchy texture. It’s a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Kid-Approved: The crispy coating and mild, flaky fish make this a huge hit with children and teenagers, even picky eaters. It’s a fun, familiar meal that’s easy to eat and always a crowd-pleaser, ensuring empty plates and happy smiles around the table.

Ingredients Breakdown for Perfect Air Fryer Fish and Chips

Crafting the perfect Air Fryer Fish and Chips begins with understanding the role each ingredient plays. Here’s a detailed look:

• Fish: The star of the show! You’ll want to reach for a firm, mild-flavored white fish of your choice. Excellent options include cod, haddock, tilapia, or flounder. These fish varieties are ideal because they are lean, cook quickly, and flake beautifully, holding up well to the breading and air frying process. Cod and tilapia are particularly popular choices for creating those satisfying fish planks often seen in traditional fish and chips. Ensure your fish is thawed if frozen and patted thoroughly dry for the best crispiness.
• All-Purpose Flour: This is the crucial first layer of your breading. All-purpose flour adheres directly to the fish, creating a dry surface that allows the egg wash to stick properly. It acts as the foundational base for the entire crispy coating. For a gluten-free version, you can easily substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Old Bay Seasoning: This iconic spice blend is what truly elevates the flavor profile, bringing in those authentic coastal tastes. Old Bay is a unique mix of celery salt, paprika, red pepper, and other secret spices, offering a robust, savory, and slightly spicy flavor that is synonymous with seafood. It’s used in both the flour and breadcrumb mixtures, infusing every layer with deliciousness.
• Large Eggs: Eggs serve as the primary binder in this recipe. When whisked, they create a sticky liquid that helps the breadcrumbs adhere firmly to the flour-dusted fish. They are essential for ensuring a complete and even coating that stays on during cooking, contributing to the overall crispness.
• Buttermilk: Adding buttermilk to the egg wash is a brilliant move. Its natural acidity helps to tenderize the fish, making it incredibly moist and flaky. Beyond tenderizing, buttermilk also has a slightly thicker consistency than regular milk, which helps in creating a more substantial coating for the breadcrumbs, ensuring better adhesion and a richer flavor profile with a subtle tangy note. If you don’t have buttermilk, a simple substitute can be made by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
• Plain Breadcrumbs: These provide the much-desired crunchy texture. When air-fried, the breadcrumbs crisp up beautifully, forming that signature golden crust. While plain breadcrumbs work perfectly, you can also opt for Panko breadcrumbs for an even lighter, crispier, and more airy crunch. Just ensure they are plain, so you can control the seasoning with the Old Bay.
• Cooking Spray: This is a key ingredient for achieving that gorgeous golden-brown color and extra crunch without excess oil. A light mist of cooking spray on the breaded fish before air frying helps the breadcrumbs crisp up and brown as if they were deep-fried, but with a fraction of the fat. It also aids in preventing the fish from sticking to the air fryer basket.
• French Fries (Optional Side): No fish and chips meal is complete without the chips! You can choose your favorite frozen french fries for ultimate convenience, or, if you’re feeling ambitious, whip up a batch of homemade fries for an extra special touch. Consider different cuts like shoestring, crinkle, or steak fries to vary the experience.
• Tartar Sauce and Lemon Wedges (Optional Enhancements): These classic accompaniments are highly recommended to elevate the dish. Tartar sauce, with its creamy, tangy profile, provides a perfect counterpoint to the rich, crispy fish. Fresh lemon wedges offer a bright, zesty acidity that cuts through the richness and enhances the natural flavor of the seafood. Don’t skip these if you want the full, authentic experience!













Storage and Freezing Tips for Air Fryer Fish

One of the many advantages of this Air Fryer Fish and Chips recipe is its flexibility when it comes to storage and freezing, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Proper storage ensures your delicious fish remains fresh and flavorful.

Refrigeration: Cooked fish and chips can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out, place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating them in the air fryer is key to bringing back their crispy texture. Simply preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through and crispy. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the breading soggy.

Freezing Cooked Fish: If you’ve cooked a larger batch or want to prepare meals in advance, freezing the fish is an excellent option. For best results, allow the cooked fish fillets to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and flash freeze for about an hour. This prevents the fillets from sticking together. Once firm, transfer the individual fish fillets to a freezer-friendly, airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Frozen Fish: The best part is you can cook the frozen fish straight from the freezer in your air fryer! There’s no need to thaw, which saves a lot of time. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen fish fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, then carefully flip the fillets, spray them lightly with a bit more cooking spray (this helps achieve maximum crispiness), and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown, crispy, and warmed through to the center. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for food safety.

These storage and reheating methods ensure that you can enjoy the incredible taste and texture of your air fryer fish and chips long after they’ve been initially cooked, making healthy and delicious meals more accessible than ever.



This recipe truly embodies the essence of those low-effort, high-reward dinners that consistently deliver satisfaction. The breading achieves a perfectly golden hue with just a minimal amount of cooking spray, freeing you from the need to constantly monitor it like traditional frying. While the fish is crisping to perfection, you have the flexibility to quickly prep a fresh coleslaw, toss a second batch of fries into the air fryer, or, if we’re being honest, sneak a few crispy edges of the fish as the rest finishes cooking – no judgment here, I do it too! Over time, I’ve enjoyed experimenting with the breading; sometimes, I’ll swap in panko for an even more pronounced crunch, or I might adjust the seasoning blend if I’m in the mood for something spicier. However, the core recipe itself remains an unwavering classic, consistently delivering superb results.

Furthermore, if you’re new to cooking fish or often find yourself nervous about it drying out, this air frying method is incredibly forgiving. The precise, circulating heat of the air fryer ensures the fish remains wonderfully moist and juicy on the inside, all while creating that irresistible crispy coating you crave. It takes the guesswork out of seafood preparation, making it accessible and enjoyable for cooks of all skill levels.



Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Air Fryer Fish and Chips

If you’re wondering what to serve alongside your perfectly crisp Air Fryer Fish and Chips to create a truly complete and satisfying meal, look no further! Here are some tasty options that are sure to hit the spot:

• Classic Coleslaw: A generous portion of creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and tangy flavor that beautifully complements the rich fish. Its cool, crisp texture is a perfect counterpoint to the warm, fried elements.
• Golden French Fries (or Creative Alternatives): A pile of perfectly cooked golden fries is, of course, essential! For a twist, you could opt for sweet potato fries, which add a hint of natural sweetness and vibrant color. Alternatively, thick-cut potato wedges offer a heartier, more rustic “chip” experience.
• Fresh Green Salad with Vinaigrette: For a lighter and healthier balance, a simple green salad tossed with your favorite bright vinaigrette dressing is an excellent choice. It provides freshness and a welcome textural contrast.
• Garden Peas or Mushy Peas: In a nod to traditional British fish and chips, a side of warm garden peas or classic mushy peas is an authentic and comforting addition.
• A Refreshing Beverage: Serve with a chilled pint of cold beer for a true pub experience, or for a healthier, effervescent option, a glass of kombucha or sparkling lemonade is a great choice.
• Greek Cucumber Salad: This light and fresh side dish, typically made with cucumbers, red onion, dill, and a lemon-yogurt dressing, offers a cool, crisp, and slightly zesty counterpoint that perfectly complements the delicate seafood flavor.
• Pickled Onions or Gherkins: For those who love a bit of tangy bite, small pickled onions or sliced gherkins can add a delightful acidity that cuts through the richness of the fish.

Top Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Fish and Chips Every Time

Achieving consistently crispy and delicious results with your air fryer fish is easy when you follow a few key techniques. Here are some essential tips for success when it comes to making this seafood recipe:

• Pat the Fish Dry Thoroughly: This step is non-negotiable! Before you begin the breading process, gently but firmly pat your fish fillets completely dry with paper towels. Excess moisture on the fish surface can create steam in the air fryer, which prevents the breading from crisping up and can cause it to become soggy or fall off. A dry surface ensures the flour and subsequent coatings adhere perfectly, leading to an ultra-crisp result.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket: This is crucial for even cooking and maximum crispiness. Place the fish fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a bit of space between each piece. If you overcrowd the basket, air circulation is restricted, leading to steaming rather than crisping. This will result in unevenly cooked fish that lacks that desirable crunch. If necessary, cook in multiple batches.
• Generously Use Cooking Spray: For that beautiful golden-brown color and extra crispy texture, a good application of cooking spray is essential. Lightly but thoroughly spray both sides of the breaded fish fillets before placing them in the air fryer. This helps activate the browning process, mimics the effect of oil in traditional frying, and prevents the breading from looking pale. Don’t be shy; a little extra spray can make a big difference.
• Always Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer is a simple step that significantly impacts the outcome. Preheating for 3-5 minutes allows the air fryer to reach its target temperature before the food goes in. This immediate burst of hot air helps the breading to set quickly, achieving a crispy texture on the outside of the fish right from the start and preventing it from absorbing too much moisture or oil.
• Flip Halfway Through Cooking: To ensure uniform crispiness and even cooking on both sides, remember to carefully flip the fish fillets halfway through the cooking time. This exposes both sides to the direct circulating hot air, resulting in a beautifully golden and crunchy crust all around.
• Check for Doneness: The best way to ensure your fish is perfectly cooked (moist inside, not dry) is to use an instant-read thermometer. White fish is safely cooked when its internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Cooking times can vary based on fish thickness and air fryer model, so monitoring with a thermometer is ideal.



For this outstanding recipe, I rely on my COSORI 6.8Qt Air Fryer—and it has genuinely been a game-changer in my kitchen. This model boasts a wide, spacious basket that is absolutely perfect for ensuring everything gets wonderfully crisp without the common issue of overcrowding. Its intuitive presets make it incredibly easy to use, especially for those quick weeknight dinners when time is of the essence. If you’re currently in the market for a reliable, high-performance air fryer that can handle any recipe like a seasoned professional, here’s the exact one I use available in my Amazon store. It’s thoughtfully designed to be large enough to effortlessly cook for an entire family, yet compact enough to avoid hogging precious counter space. I genuinely find myself reaching for it almost daily!



When to Serve This Air Fryer Fish and Chips

This versatile and delicious recipe is a true keeper for a variety of occasions, fitting seamlessly into almost any meal plan:

• Busy Weeknights: When you’re short on time but still crave a wholesome, satisfying meal made from scratch, this recipe is your go-to. It comes together quickly, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked dinner without the stress.
• Friday Fish Fry Vibes: Recreate the beloved tradition of a Friday fish fry without the extensive cleanup or the heavy feeling of deep-fried food. It’s perfect for unwinding at the end of the week.
• Casual Dinners with Kids: Its crispy texture and mild flavor make it an instant hit with children. This is one of those reliable meals that pleases everyone at the table, ensuring happy eaters every time.
• Lighter Comfort Food: When you’re craving the deep satisfaction of comfort food but prefer a healthier option, this air-fried version is ideal. It delivers all the crispy goodness without feeling overly heavy or greasy.
• Entertaining Guests: Impress your guests with a classic dish made healthier and effortlessly. It’s simple enough to prepare for a crowd, yet elegant enough to serve for casual gatherings.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its delicious outcome but also in its incredible efficiency. It comes together in under 30 minutes, freeing up your valuable time. And the cleanup? It’s an absolute breeze – no vats of messy oil to dispose of, no greasy splatters all over your countertops. Just a simple, clean cooking experience with maximum flavor payoff.



Recipe FAQs: Your Air Fryer Fish & Chips Questions Answered

Have questions about perfecting your Air Fryer Fish and Chips? Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries:

What kind of fish works best for air fryer fish?
Mild, firm white fish varieties are your best bet. Flounder, cod, haddock, or tilapia are ideal choices. They are tender, have a subtle flavor that pairs well with the breading, and cook quickly and evenly in the air fryer. Always ensure your fillets are boneless and cut into roughly even-sized pieces to promote uniform cooking.

Can I use frozen fish filets?
Absolutely, you can! However, it’s crucial that they are fully thawed before you begin the breading process. Once thawed, pat them extremely dry with paper towels. Any excess moisture will prevent the breading from sticking properly and could lead to a soggy crust that slides off during cooking.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
Yes, preheating is highly recommended! Even just 3-5 minutes of preheating ensures the air fryer is at the desired temperature when you add the fish. This immediate intense heat helps the coating crisp up instantly, giving it a head start on browning and preventing the fish from overcooking while waiting for the crust to get golden.

How do I get the coating to really stick?
There are a few key steps: First, ensure your fish is very dry before dredging in flour. Second, fully coat each fillet in the seasoned flour – this dry layer is essential for the egg wash to adhere. Then, after dipping in the egg wash, gently but firmly press the fish into the breadcrumbs to create a solid, even coating. Don’t rush this dipping and pressing process – a well-adhered breading is the secret to a perfectly crunchy crust.

Can I use panko instead of plain breadcrumbs?
Absolutely, you can! Panko breadcrumbs are fantastic for this recipe. Their larger, flakier texture will give you an even lighter, crispier, and more airy result. Regular plain breadcrumbs still work great, especially when seasoned well with Old Bay, but panko takes the crunch factor up a notch.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, easily! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also get creative by using crushed gluten-free crackers or even gluten-free cornflakes as a unique and delicious alternative for the coating.



What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No problem at all! You can easily make a buttermilk substitute at home. Just add ½ tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 2 tablespoons of regular milk (dairy or non-dairy), give it a quick stir, and let it sit for 5 minutes. It will curdle slightly, creating an instant buttermilk substitute ready for your recipe.

Why do I need to spray the fish with oil?
Spraying both sides of the breaded fish lightly with cooking oil or cooking spray before air frying is key to achieving that beautiful golden-brown and extra crispy crust. It helps the breadcrumbs brown and crisp up just like traditional fried fish, but with a significantly reduced amount of grease. Without the spray, the coating might look pale and less appealing.

Do I need to flip them?
Yes, flipping is highly recommended! The sweet spot is usually halfway through the cooking time. Flipping ensures that both sides of the fish are exposed to the direct circulating hot air, allowing them to cook evenly and crisp up uniformly on both sides. This prevents one side from being perfectly golden while the other remains soft.

Can I cook the fries at the same time?
This depends on the size of your air fryer. If you have a large-capacity air fryer and can fit both the fish and fries in a single, non-overcrowded layer, then yes, you can cook them simultaneously. However, if space is limited, it’s best to cook the fries first and keep them warm while the fish finishes cooking, or vice versa, to ensure proper crisping of both components.

How do I reheat leftovers?
To bring your leftover fish and chips back to their crispy glory, pop them back into the air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to around 350°F (175°C) and cook for just a few minutes, typically 3-5, until they are warmed through and crispy again. Absolutely avoid microwaving them, as that will inevitably make the delicious crispy breading go soggy and unappetizing.

How do I know when the fish is cooked through?
The best way to ensure your fish is cooked perfectly is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the fillet; the fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should also appear opaque and flake easily with a fork.

Can I season the flour or breadcrumbs differently?
Absolutely! While Old Bay Seasoning provides that classic flavor, feel free to get creative. You could try adding garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, a pinch of cayenne for heat, or even Italian seasoning for a different twist. Just adjust the amounts to your taste preferences.



This is truly the kind of recipe that effortlessly checks all the boxes – it’s quick to prepare, delivers incredible crispiness, offers the satisfaction of a homemade meal, and is utterly satisfying in every bite. It captures the comforting essence of classic fish and chips but with a lighter feel, making it a meal that always disappears remarkably fast once it hits the table. Make sure to keep this one firmly planted in your weeknight rotation; it’s a no-fuss, always-reliable classic that you’ll undoubtedly find yourself coming back to again and again.

More Delicious Seafood Recipes to Try

• Crab Dip
• Cajun Grilled Shrimp
• Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet

Air Fryer Fish And Chips
Course Main Course
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Total Time 25 mins
Servings 4 servings
Dish up these air fryer fish and chips recipe that is loaded with golden crunchy coating and tender fish center. Pair with some crunchy chips! Try out this easy air fryer fish recipe.
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Ingredients
• 1 pound white fish filets thawed
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 Tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning divided
• 2 large eggs
• 2 Tablespoons buttermilk
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• French fries optional side
• Tartar sauce optional side
• Lemon wedges optional garnish
Instructions
1. Pat the fish filets dry with clean paper towels. This is crucial for a crispy coating.
2. In a shallow dipping dish, mix together the flour and 1 Tablespoon of Old Bay Seasoning until well combined.
3. Whisk together the eggs and buttermilk in a second shallow dipping dish and set next to the flour dish.
4. Finally, mix together the plain breadcrumbs with the remaining 2 Tablespoons of Old Bay Seasoning until fully combined in a third shallow dish.
5. Dip a fillet of flounder first in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess.
6. Next, dip it thoroughly in the egg and buttermilk mixture, letting any excess drip off.
7. Then, press lightly into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture to fully coat all sides. Gently press to adhere the breadcrumbs.
8. Place the coated fillet on a clean plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper and repeat with all remaining fillets.
9. Generously spray each side of the coated fillets with cooking spray. This is essential for a golden and crispy crust.
10. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Then, carefully place the fillets in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; you may need to cook in multiple batches. Cook for 6-10 minutes, carefully turning the fish halfway through cooking, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
11. Serve hot immediately with a side of french fries, a dollop of tartar sauce, and fresh lemon wedges for garnish, if desired. Enjoy!

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