Air Fryer Blackened Catfish Fillets are a simple and healthy way to enjoy bold, Southern-style flavors without the need for deep frying. Coated in a blend of spices that bring heat, smokiness, and savory depth, the catfish becomes perfectly crispy on the outside while staying tender and flaky on the inside. The air fryer delivers a guilt-free crunch, making this dish both quick and nutritious. Serve these blackened fillets with a side of rice, salad, or vegetables for a complete meal that’s full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 catfish fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels. Rub both sides of each fillet with olive oil and then coat generously with the seasoning mixture.
- Place the seasoned fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Air fry the catfish for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is crispy and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve the blackened catfish fillets with lemon wedges and garnish with fresh parsley for extra brightness.
This Air Fryer Blackened Catfish Fillets recipe delivers big flavors and a satisfying crunch with minimal effort, making it an ideal option for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner.
