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Light & Flaky Air Fryer Pollock

Light & Flaky Air Fryer Pollock - Simple, Crisp, and Ready Fast

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Pre-heat 5 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 to 1.5 pounds pollock fillets, about 4 pieces (fresh or thawed if frozen)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional but recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon mayo or Greek yogurt (helps crispness)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup fine breadcrumbs (or use all panko for extra crunch)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • Olive oil spray or neutral oil spray
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prep the fish: Pat the pollock dry with paper towels. If the fillets are very long, cut them into manageable portions so they fit in your air fryer basket without folding.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (205°C). A hot basket helps the coating crisp fast.
  • Make the wet mix: In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg, Dijon, and mayo or yogurt until smooth. This helps the crumbs stick and adds a light crust.
  • Mix the crumbs: In another shallow bowl, combine panko, fine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, pepper, and salt. Taste a pinch and adjust seasoning.
  • Coat the fillets: Dip each piece in the egg mixture, let the excess drip off, then press into the crumb mix. Gently pack crumbs on both sides.
  • Oil the basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket. Place the coated fillets in a single layer, leaving space between pieces. Spray the tops of the fish lightly with oil.
  • Air fry: Cook for 6–9 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Thinner fillets cook faster. The fish is done when the crust is golden and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
  • Finish and serve: Squeeze fresh lemon over the hot fish. Sprinkle with parsley and a pinch of salt if needed. Serve right away.