Easy Shrimp and Air Fryer Fish Taco Recipes

Easy Seafood Taco Recipes

Ready to make your own? Explore more fish taco recipes and start planning your National Taco Day menu.

Baja Fish Tacos

Bake these crunchy fish sticks in your air fryer and top them with creamy avocado sauce, fresh cabbage, and your favorite toppings to make these easy fish tacos in under 30 minutes!

Get the recipe

Asian Fish Tacos

Crisp your beer-battered fish fillets in the air fryer and pair them with shredded cabbage, sriracha-mayo, cilantro, and pork dumplings to create a savory fish taco dinner spread that’s packed with flavor and can feed the whole family.

Get the recipe

Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

Next time you want easy air fryer fish tacos, crisp up some tasty popcorn shrimp and top them with this vibrant pineapple-avocado salsa in warm tortillas for a simple, nutritious, and quick weeknight meal.

Get the recipe

Ranch Popcorn Shrimp Tacos

Air fry or oven bake your popcorn shrimp on a sheet pan to make these quick and easy popcorn shrimp tacos. Serve them with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and extra ranch in warm tortillas.

Get the recipe

BBQ Popcorn Shrimp Taco Recipe

Toss your air fryer popcorn shrimp in this creamy coleslaw and BBQ-mustard sauce, then assemble in soft flour tortillas to make this easy weeknight shrimp taco recipe that requires very few pantry staples and little prep to feed the whole family.

Get the recipe

How to Make Fish Tacos with Fish Sticks, Frozen Fish, or Shrimp

Making fish tacos at home is surprisingly simple. Frozen fish, shrimp, or even fish sticks can become a delicious, stress-free meal in just a few steps — and kids love them as much as adults.

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to the temperature listed on the packaging — typically 370°F to 400°F for most frozen fish and shrimp. Preheating helps create a crisp, evenly browned exterior.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

After a good rinse, finely dice or cut your preferred toppings like lettuce, cabbage, pico de gallo, onion, and any other fresh ingredients.

If not already shredded, finely shred your cheese using a grater and return to the refrigerator until ready to eat.

Prepare any homemade sauces before cooking your fish and set aside.

How to Bread Frozen Fish Filets

1. Remove from packaging (do not thaw).
2. Brush or spray with olive or avocado oil — the cold surface helps the oil become tacky.
3. Generously sprinkle seasoned or plain panko breadcrumbs over the top of each filet, pressing gently to ensure the breading sticks.
4. Flip and coat the other side using the same method.

Step 3: Air Fry Your Frozen Fish or Shrimp

For store-bought frozen fish and breaded shrimp, be sure to reference the package instructions before proceeding with these directions.

• Preheat your air fryer to about 390°F for about 3 minutes.
• Transfer your frozen fish or shrimp to the air fryer in an even layer, allowing space between each frozen ingredient. Be sure to avoid overlapping or overcrowding.
• Cook your frozen fish or shrimp based on package instructions, usually about 8 to 12 minutes, or until desired crispiness.
• Shake your air fryer basket every 4 to 6 minutes to ensure they brown evenly.

For Homemade Breaded Frozen Filets:

1. Preheat your air fryer to about 390°F for about 3 minutes.

• Transfer your frozen fish or shrimp to the air fryer in an even layer, allowing space between each frozen ingredient. Be sure to avoid overlapping or overcrowding.
• Air fry for about 6 minutes.

2. Spray or brush filet tops with more olive oil to help the breadcrumbs toast.
3. Cook for another 6 to 8 minutes or until golden brown. Exact cook time will depend on the type and size of your filet. Internal temperature should reach at least 145°F.

Step 4: Optional: Prepare Your Tortillas and Assemble

Your tortillas can be enjoyed as they are, but we recommend slightly heating them in a warm pan to soften them before assembling your fish tacos. To heat your tortillas:

1. Bring a medium to large skillet or pan to medium high heat.
2. Add your tortillas to the pan, flipping every 1 to 2 minutes until warm.
3. Carefully remove tortillas and begin plating.

Tip: For a healthier alternative, try swapping your tortilla with a large romaine lettuce leaf.

Flavor Your Way: Fish Taco Topping Ideas

Slaws and Lettuce

Start with something crisp. Slaws and leafy greens add crunch and freshness, giving your tacos the perfect balance of texture.

• Cabbage Slaw: A classic taco topper made with shredded green or purple cabbage. Mix it with lime juice, cilantro, and a light dressing for crunch and zing.
• Coleslaw Mix: Short on time? Pre-made coleslaw mix makes it easy to whip up a slaw in minutes.
• Lettuce or Arugula: Shredded lettuce adds crisp freshness, while arugula brings a peppery bite.
• Pickled Veggies: Try quick-pickled cabbage, jalapeños, or onions for a tangy layer of flavor.

Sauces and Cremas

Start with something crisp. Slaws and leafy greens add crunch and freshness, giving your tacos the perfect balance of texture.

• White Sauce/Crema: A creamy, tangy blend of mayo, sour cream, or yogurt with lime, garlic, cumin, and a touch of heat.
• Avocado Cilantro Lime Sauce: Smooth and fresh, this sauce combines avocado with lime and herbs for a zesty finish.
• Sriracha Aioli: Creamy aioli with a spicy kick of sriracha.
• Chipotle Sauce: Smoky and bold, made with chipotles in adobo for extra depth.
• Tartar Sauce: A classic mix of mayo, pickles or relish, lemon juice, and herbs that pairs perfectly with fish.

Fresh Produce

Bright, colorful produce brings crispy air fryer fish to life. Pile on fresh veggies, herbs, and fruit for a topping lineup that’s as tasty as it looks.

• Pico de Gallo: A chunky salsa of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños that adds freshness and crunch.
• Diced Fruit: Mango, pineapple, or peaches bring a touch of sweetness to balance savory flavors.
• Onions: Use red or white onions for sharpness or choose pickled red onions for tang.
• Avocado: Slice, dice, or mash into guacamole for a creamy, classic taco topping.
• Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brightens every bite.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice adds citrusy zip and ties all the flavors together.
• Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled, they give tacos a pop of heat.

Cheese

Cheese makes everything better. Whether you sprinkle, shred, or crumble, it’s the finishing touch for air fryer fish tacos that adds melty comfort.

• Shredded Cheese: A classic taco topping. Try a Mexican blend, cheddar, or mozzarella for gooey, melty goodness.
• Cotija: A salty, crumbly cheese that sprinkles easily over tacos and adds a burst of flavor.
• Queso Fresco: Another crumbly favorite with a milder taste that balances out spicier toppings.

Referenced https://cookthestory.com/air-fryer-fish-from-frozen/