Air Fryer Mahi Mahi

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Mahi Mahi is a quick and healthy seafood dish with a crisp exterior and tender, flaky inside. This lean white fish cooks beautifully in the air fryer, offering a nutritious and flavorful meal in under 20 minutes. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and pairs well with a variety of sides like vegetables, rice, or salad.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

mahi mahi filletsolive oilgarlic powderpaprikaonion powderlemon juiceblack peppersea saltfresh parsley (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels.

Brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil.

Season with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Remove and drizzle with lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-3 people.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 8-10 minutesTotal time: 13-15 minutes

Variations

Use Cajun or blackened seasoning for a spicy kick.

Add a breadcrumb crust for extra crunch.

Top with mango salsa or avocado for a tropical twist.

Swap olive oil for butter for a richer flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover mahi mahi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or until warmed through.Avoid microwaving as it may dry out the fish.

Air Fryer Mahi Mahi

FAQs

Can I use frozen mahi mahi?

Yes, just thaw completely before seasoning and air frying.

How do I know when mahi mahi is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 137°F (58°C).

Can I cook mahi mahi with the skin on?

Yes, but place it skin-side down in the air fryer for the best texture.

What sides go well with mahi mahi?

Steamed veggies, quinoa, rice, or a fresh salad are excellent pairings.

Do I need to marinate the fish?

Not necessary, but a short 15-minute marinade in lemon and herbs can boost flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

Is mahi mahi a healthy fish?

Yes, it’s high in protein, low in fat, and a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Can I make this without oil?

Yes, but the fillets may not crisp as well without a light oil coating.

What other fish can I substitute?

Cod, halibut, or tilapia work well with this method.

Can I add vegetables to the air fryer?

Yes, just adjust cooking time depending on the vegetable type.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Mahi Mahi is a deliciously simple way to enjoy a healthy seafood meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy nights or light meals, it’s versatile, flavorful, and ready in minutes. Once you try this method, it might become your go-to for cooking fish.

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Air Fryer Mahi Mahi

Air Fryer Mahi Mahi

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  • Author: saadia
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 8–10 mins
  • Total Time: 18–20 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Seafood
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A quick, healthy and flavorful way to cook mahi mahi using an air fryer for a tender, flaky fish with a golden crust.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 mahi mahi fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 lemon, zest and juice
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  3. Brush both sides of each fillet with the oil-spice mixture.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 375 °F (190 °C) for 3 minutes.
  5. Place fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin‑side down if applicable.
  6. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145 °F and flakes easily.
  7. Carefully remove fillets and garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed.
  • Cooking time may vary slightly depending on fillet thickness.
  • You can swap garlic powder with minced garlic for fresh flavor.
  • Serve with steamed veggies, rice, or a light salad.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet (approx. 6 oz)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 0g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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