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Air Fryer Fish and Chips
Well, it turns out the key to the best fakeaway fish and chips is a bag of salt and vinegar crisps.
SERVES
2
CALORIES
574
COOKING TIME
15 mins
DIFFICULTY
simple
There’s nothing quite like a classic fish and chips. But what if you could enjoy this British favourite without the grease, all from your kitchen, and still get that satisfying crunch? Say hello to this air fryer fish and chips fakeaway – a healthier twist on the traditional chippy tea that tastes just as good (if not better!)
Honestly, you won’t believe how well this turns out with the crisp crumb on the outside of the fish. In Northern Ireland, we put gravy on our chips so for me this is unbeatable with mushy peas, tartare sauce and a tub of gravy on the side.
Why You’ll Love This Fakeaway Fish and Chip Recipe
- Healthier alternative to the takeaway version
- No deep frying, just hot air magic from your air fryer
- Super crispy chips and flaky fish every time
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Family-friendly and budget-friendly
What to serve fakeaway air fryer fish and chips with
Serve your air fryer fish and chips with:
- Peas or mushy peas
- Lemon wedges
- Tartare sauce or a low-fat mayo mixed with capers and lemon
- Vinegar (for that authentic chip shop flavour!)
Frequently Asked Questions about Air Fryer Fish & Chips
Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, but defrost it fully and pat it dry before breading. Excess moisture can make the coating soggy.
What’s the best fish to use for air fryer fish and chips?
Cod, haddock, or pollock all work well. Go for thick, firm fillets that won’t fall apart.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
For the crispiest results, preheat your air fryer for 3–5 minutes before adding the food.
How do I get my air fryer chips extra crispy?
Soaking them first, drying them well, and not overcrowding the basket are key. You can also finish with a quick extra spray of oil before the last 5 minutes.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes – just swap the flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.
Any other top tips for this recipe?
- Use a food thermometer if you’re unsure if the fish is done (it should hit 63°C (145°F) inside).
- Got leftovers? Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C for 5–6 minutes to revive that crunch.
- Cooking for kids? Cut the fish into strips before breading for homemade fish fingers.
Make It a Weekly Fakeaway!
This air fryer fish and chips is everything you want in a Friday night treat – but healthier, cheaper, and way less hassle. It’s part of a growing collection of fakeaway air fryer recipes that help you enjoy your favourite comfort foods without the guilt.
More Fakeaway Recipes to Try
If you loved this air fryer fish and chips fakeaway, check out these other healthy takeaway-style recipes:
- Air Fryer Salt & Chilli Chicken Spice Bag
- Slow Cooker Doner Kebab
- Air Fryer Crispy Beijing Beef
- Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos
- Air Fryer Prawn Sesame Toast
For more quick and easy airfryer recipes like this, you can pick up a copy of my latest airfryer book Air Fryer 30 Minute Meals today.
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Method
Step 1
Pat the fish dry with kitchen paper and salt it generously. This will help prevent it falling apart during cooking. Place the flour, egg and crushed crisps into three separate bowls.
Step 2
Dunk the fillets first in flour, then into the beaten egg, then finally into the crisp crumb to coat. Cook the coated dish in the air fryer for 12-14 minutes at 200ºC (390ºF) – frozen chips should take the same length of time, so add them all together.
Step 3
Meanwhile, heat the mushy peas in the microwave, then serve with the fish and chips, and tartare sauce if you wish. For more healthy low calorie air fryer recipes take a look at The Healthy Air Fryer Book.
Ingredients
2 skinless cod fillets
2 tbsp plain flour
1 large egg
75g (1/2 cup) crushed salt and vinegar crisps
Frozen chips of choice
300g (10 1/2 oz) tin of mushy peas (drained)
Tartare sauce (optional)
Salt to taste
