Air Fryer Mahi Mahi Recipe

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Cooking mahi mahi in an air fryer is a game changer. You can have perfectly cooked mahi mahi in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen fillets, the air fryer will deliver a healthy, delicious meal with minimal effort.

With simple seasonings like lemon pepper or cajun blackened, you can enjoy a flavorful fish without a lot of prep work. Plus, there’s no need for breading, making it a great option for gluten-free and keto diets. You’ll love how easy it is to achieve a crispy, flaky texture with just a few ingredients.

This quick cooking method is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a nutritious meal fast. It’s versatile and pairs well with many side dishes, from fresh salads to roasted vegetables. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite spices and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right from your kitchen.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

Here is a helpful list to make your air fryer mahi mahi delicious:

Mahi Mahi Fillets – Use fresh or thawed frozen fillets. Thaw overnight in the fridge if using frozen.

Olive Oil – Helps to brown the fish. You can use melted butter or avocado oil instead.

Seasonings – A simple mix works best. You’ll need paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and pepper.

Lemon Wedges – For serving. Adds a fresh flavor. If you don’t have lemons, try lime wedges.

Ingredient Table

Ingredient	Amount	Substitute
Mahi Mahi Fillets	1 ½ pounds	Any white fish fillets
Olive Oil	2 tablespoons	Melted butter, avocado oil
Paprika	1 teaspoon	Smoked paprika
Garlic Powder	1 teaspoon	Fresh minced garlic
Onion Powder	1 teaspoon	Finely chopped onions
Sea Salt	½ teaspoon	Regular salt
Black Pepper	¼ teaspoon	Chili powder (for extra kick)
Lemon Wedges (for serving)	As needed	Lime wedges

Have fun experimenting with these ingredients and substitutes! Your air fryer mahi mahi will be a hit.

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer

   • Set your air fryer to 400 degrees F.

2. Prepare the Fish

   • If using fresh mahi mahi, pat the fillets dry with a paper towel.
   • Drizzle a bit of olive oil on each fillet.

3. Season the Fish

   • Mix together your favorite spices: salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
   • Rub the spices all over the mahi mahi fillets.

4. Place the Fillets

   • Lay down a piece of parchment paper in the air fryer basket.
   • Place the seasoned fillets in a single layer.

5. Cooking Time

   • Cook for 10-14 minutes, flipping halfway through.
   • Check if the fillets are cooked by seeing if the internal temperature is 130-135 degrees F.

6. Final Touches

   • Drizzle with melted butter.
   • Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite side of vegetables.

Enjoy your delicious air-fried mahi mahi!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Tips for Cooking

1. Dry the Fillets: Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with a paper towel before cooking to help the seasonings stick better.
2. No Need to Preheat: Air fryers heat up quickly, so you can skip preheating for this recipe.
3. Proper Temperature: Cook the fillets at 390-400°F for 7-10 minutes. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
4. Check Doneness: The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F.

Tricks for Better Flavor

• Season Evenly: Mix your spices—paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper—in a bowl first, then rub them on the fish.
• Use Olive Oil or Butter: A light drizzle of olive oil or melted butter can enhance browning and flavor.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Place the fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure they cook evenly.

Storing Mahi Mahi

• Refrigerate: Place cooked fish in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the fish in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, air fry at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave, though it may not be as crispy.

Quick Reference Table

Action	Recommendation
Dry Fillets	With paper towel
Cooking Temp	390-400°F
Cooking Time	7-10 minutes
Internal Temp	145°F
Storage (Fridge)	Up to 3 days
Storage (Freezer)	Up to 3 months

These tips and tricks will help you master cooking mahi mahi in your air fryer and keep it delicious and fresh for longer. Enjoy!

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

You can get creative with your air fryer Mahi Mahi. Here are some ideas to try out:

Taco Night

Flake the cooked Mahi Mahi into small pieces and serve in warm tortillas. Add a tangy slaw, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime for some extra flavor.

Mediterranean Style

Top your Mahi Mahi fillets with chopped tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle with a little olive oil and finish with a sprinkle of oregano.

Salad Boost

Slice your Mahi Mahi and place it on top of a fresh salad. Use mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. A simple lemon vinaigrette pairs well.

Spicy Kick

Add a bit more excitement with some heat. Sprinkle chili powder or cayenne pepper on your Mahi Mahi before air frying. Serve with a side of cooling yogurt dip.

Herb Delight

Mix freshly chopped herbs like cilantro, parsley, and dill. Sprinkle over the fish after cooking. A squeeze of lemon juice will brighten the dish.

Simple and Classic

For a classic approach, serve your air fryer Mahi Mahi with lemon wedges and melted butter. Pair it with steamed or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

These variations can make your meals more exciting and help you enjoy your air-fried Mahi Mahi in different ways. Enjoy experimenting!