Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Air Fryer Mahi Mahi is a quick, healthy, and flavorful seafood dish with a tender interior and a lightly crisped exterior. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in minutes with minimal cleanup. The mild, slightly sweet flavor of mahi mahi pairs wonderfully with simple seasonings and a squeeze of lemon.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
mahi mahi fillets (fresh or thawed)olive oilgarlic powderpaprikaonion powdersaltblack pepperlemon wedges (for serving)fresh parsley (optional garnish)
directions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels.
Brush both sides of the fillets lightly with olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the fish.
Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the air fryer and serve with lemon wedges and chopped parsley if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 2-4 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 8-10 minutesTotal time: 13-15 minutes
Variations
Use Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist.
Top with a mango or pineapple salsa for a tropical flavor.
Marinate the fish in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking for added depth.
Serve over rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
storage/reheating
Store leftover mahi mahi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or microwave gently until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen mahi mahi?
Yes, just be sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking.
How do I know when mahi mahi is cooked?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 137°F (58°C).
Can I add breadcrumbs for extra crunch?
Yes, lightly coat the fillets with seasoned breadcrumbs before air frying for a crispier texture.
Is mahi mahi a good source of protein?
Yes, mahi mahi is high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy option.
Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, cod, halibut, or tilapia also work well in this recipe.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Mahi Mahi is a simple yet satisfying dish that makes healthy eating delicious and easy. With just a few pantry spices and a quick cook time, it’s ideal for weeknights or meal prep. Try it once, and it may become your go-to seafood recipe.
Print
Air Fryer Mahi Mahi
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick, healthy, and delicious way to prepare Mahi Mahi using an air fryer, resulting in a tender, flaky fish with a lightly crisp exterior.
Ingredients
- 2 Mahi Mahi fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Pat the Mahi Mahi fillets dry with paper towels.
- Brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, oregano, and lemon zest.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the fillets.
- Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking.
- Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.