Main dish

Air-Fryer Lemon Fish Fillet

White fish with lemon and garlic, air-fried until tender and bright—an easy one-serving dinner.

Total 20 min Air fryer Easy 1 servings
Air fryer Air fryer mealsCooking for one
Air-Fryer Lemon Fish Fillet

Fish dries out quickly, so use the thickest part as your doneness check and remove it as soon as it turns opaque and flakes easily.

Steps

How to make it

Prep 8 min · Cook 12 min

  1. Pat cod fillet thoroughly dry on both sides with paper towels; mince garlic (1 clove). Cut broccoli (80 g) into small florets; rinse, drain, and press dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, mix lemon juice (1.5 tbsp), olive oil (1 tbsp), garlic, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Rub half of the mixture on both sides of the fish; rest 5 minutes to marinate.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 180°C for 3 minutes.
  4. Place fillet flat in the basket; brush remaining marinade on top in a single layer without stacking. Air-fry at 180°C for 6 minutes; flip gently, then air-fry 4–5 minutes more until lightly browned on the surface.
  5. Flake the thickest part with a fork—it should be opaque and separate easily. Remove fish and keep warm.
  6. Spread broccoli in the basket; air-fry at 180°C for 3–4 minutes until stems are slightly tender but still crisp (or blanch 1 minute in boiling water).
  7. Plate fish with broccoli; drizzle a little more lemon juice if desired and serve hot.

Tips & storage

Make it easier

  • If the fillet is thicker than 2 cm, add about 2 minutes and check the thickest part with a fork before serving.
  • Pat ingredients dry and arrange them in a single layer with room for airflow so they brown evenly.

Best eaten fresh. If refrigerated, finish within 1 day and reheat gently to keep the fish from drying out.

Substitutions

SalmonMilkfish

FAQ

Will fish stick to the basket?

Parchment or a light oil coat helps; flip gently.

How should I adjust the air-frying time for different thicknesses?

Start with the stated time and check the thickest piece. Add 2–3 minutes at a time rather than extending the cook in one large jump.