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High Protein Air Fryer White Fish Tacos - Fast, Flavorful, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Fish: 1.25–1.5 pounds firm white fish (cod, halibut, mahi-mahi, tilapia), cut into 1-inch strips
  • Spice rub: 1.5 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Coating: 2 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot)
  • Oil: 1–2 tsp avocado or olive oil (spray or brush)
  • Tortillas: 8–12 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Slaw: 3 cups shredded cabbage (green, red, or a mix), 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp olive oil, pinch of salt
  • Lime yogurt sauce: 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or nonfat), zest and juice of 1 lime, 1 tsp honey or agave, 1 small garlic clove grated, pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings: Diced avocado, pickled red onions, sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, extra cilantro, lime wedges

Method
 

  1. Prep the fish: Pat the fish very dry with paper towels. Cut into 1-inch-wide strips so they cook evenly.
  2. Mix the spice rub: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Season and coat: Toss the fish with the spice rub until well coated. Sprinkle on the cornstarch and toss again to create a thin, even layer. Drizzle or spritz with a small amount of oil.
  4. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps the fish crisp.
  5. Air fry the fish: Arrange the fish in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 6–9 minutes, flipping once halfway. The fish is done when it flakes easily and reaches 140–145°F (60–63°C). Avoid overcooking.
  6. Make the slaw: While the fish cooks, mix cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Toss until lightly coated and crisp.
  7. Stir the lime yogurt sauce: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lime zest and juice, honey, grated garlic, and a pinch of salt. Adjust lime or sweetness to taste.
  8. Warm the tortillas: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet, the air fryer for 1 minute at 350°F, or wrapped in a damp towel in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
  9. Assemble: Add slaw to each tortilla, top with 2–3 pieces of fish, and finish with a spoonful of lime yogurt sauce. Add any extras like avocado, pickled onions, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
  10. Serve immediately: Squeeze fresh lime over the top and enjoy while warm and crisp.