Easy Air Fryer Blackened Catfish with Cajun Spices
A quick and flavorful recipe for blackened catfish using an air fryer. Cajun spices create a spicy crust while the air fryer ensures a crispy, tender fillet in just minutes, perfect for an easy American-style dinner.
Ingredients
Check ingredients as you go.
- Main Ingredients
- Spice Mix
- Main Ingredients
- Garnish
Let’s make it
Preparation
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Spice Mix
In a small bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the Cajun spice mix.
Preparation
Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for a crisp crust.
Preparation
Brush both sides of each catfish fillet lightly with olive oil to help the spice mix adhere and promote browning.
Seasoning
Generously sprinkle the Cajun spice mix onto both sides of each fillet, pressing it gently to adhere the spices well.
Cooking
Place the seasoned catfish fillets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping to allow hot air circulation.
Cooking
Cook the catfish in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking to ensure even blackening and doneness. The fillets should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.
Serving
Remove the catfish from the air fryer carefully. Serve immediately with lemon wedges if desired for a fresh citrus finish.
Tips & notes
For the best blackened crust, make sure the catfish fillets are dry before seasoning and air frying. Adjust cayenne pepper to control spiciness. Serve with simple sides like steamed veggies or rice.
Saving it for later
Store leftover cooked catfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator within 2 hours. Consume within 3 days for best quality. Do not freeze after cooking for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes until warmed through, or use the air fryer at 350°F for 5-6 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispness.
