Name: Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ lb tilapia or white fish (mahi mahi, cod, etc.); 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp oregano; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp cayenne (adjust to taste); 1/4 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp cumin; ½ tsp sea salt; ½ tsp cracked pepper; 2½ cups coleslaw mix; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; ⅓ cup chopped cilantro; ½ tsp sugar (optional); ¼ tsp sea salt (adjust to taste); ¼ tsp cracked pepper; tortillas; extra lime juice

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If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s as fresh as it is flavorful, Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw are about to become your new obsession. Imagine perfectly spiced, flaky fish tucked in warm tortillas and crowned with a zesty, creamy slaw that sings with lime and cilantro. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it took all afternoon—crispy, vibrant, and bursting with healthy, weeknight magic. Trust me, once you try these, Taco Tuesday might just become a daily event!

Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes these Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw so irresistible is how each simple ingredient brings out the best in every bite—spice from the rub, coolness from the slaw, and zip from the limes. You likely have most things on hand, making this a fast favorite with both flair and ease!

Tilapia or white fish (mahi mahi, cod, etc.): Mild, flaky, and perfect for soaking up bold spices and achieving crispy edges in the air fryer.
Chili powder: Brings gentle smoky heat that’s irresistible on fish.
Oregano: Adds a subtle herby flavor, rounding out the bold spices.
Garlic powder: Essential for that warm, savory depth.
Paprika: Lends earthy, slightly sweet notes and a pretty color.
Cayenne: For a touch of kick—adjust more or less for your heat preference.
Onion powder: Brings a gentle sweetness and depth to the seasoning mix.
Cumin: Infuses a robust, nutty warmth, essential to great taco flavor.
Sea salt and cracked pepper: Highlight and balance all the other flavors.
Coleslaw mix: Quick, crunchy, and a colorful base for the slaw—shredded cabbage and carrots work perfectly.
Mayonnaise: Creamy and rich, bringing the slaw together without heaviness.
Lime juice: Loads the slaw (and finished tacos) with bright, zesty freshness.
Garlic clove, minced: For a punch of real, aromatic flavor in the slaw.
Chopped cilantro: Adds a burst of herbal flavor and the distinctive “green” of these tacos.
Sugar (optional): A hint can mellow and balance all the acidity in the slaw.
Salt and pepper (for slaw): Pulls all the slaw flavors together and can be adjusted to taste.
Tortillas: Soft or lightly charred, they’re your edible taco “plate.”
Extra lime juice: Squeeze over everything for an extra pop of citrus right before serving.

How to Make Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

Step 1: Prep Your Fish and Spice Rub

Start by gently patting your fish fillets dry with paper towels. This little step helps the spice rub really stick and encourages beautiful crisp edges once you air fry. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, onion powder, cumin, sea salt, and cracked pepper. A little blend goes a long way to dial up bold flavor for your Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw—it’s a fiesta in a bowl!

Step 2: Season and Prepare the Basket

Spritz your air fryer basket with a touch of oil to prevent sticking and keep clean-up easy. Brush your fish lightly with olive oil, then coat generously with the spice mixture, pressing it gently into the fish so the flavor stays right where you want it. Give the top a quick spray or mist of oil—not only will this help the spices stay put, it’ll also keep the fish moist and tender as it cooks.

Step 3: Air Fry the Fish

With your air fryer preheated to 400°F, carefully add your spiced fish fillets into the basket. Let them cook undisturbed for 8-10 minutes (no flipping needed), depending on thickness. You’ll know they’re ready when the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork—aim for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfect doneness. If your fish is on the thicker side, add a minute or two as needed.

Step 4: Toss the Cilantro Lime Slaw

While the fish is cooking, toss together the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, a little sugar if you’d like, and salt and pepper to taste. This is the element that brings cool, creamy crunch and that signature zing to your Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw. Taste and adjust the seasoning or lime to your liking—this slaw should sparkle with flavor!

Step 5: Build and Serve Your Tacos

Once your fish is cooked, transfer it from the air fryer basket and slice it into taco-sized pieces. Warm up your tortillas until they’re soft and pliable, then pile them with the spiced fish and a generous mound of cilantro lime slaw. Finish with a big squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra zip. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor—each bite is pure taco happiness!

How to Serve Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

Garnishes

For a picture-perfect plate, sprinkle extra chopped cilantro and freshly cracked black pepper on top, and don’t forget to scatter a few lime wedges for everyone to add that final burst of citrus. A handful of thinly sliced radishes or a few diced avocados can also bring gorgeous color and fresh flavor contrast, elevating your tacos to a truly special treat.

Side Dishes

Pair your Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw with classic sides like tortilla chips and fresh salsa or creamy guacamole. If you’re leaning into summer vibes, a fresh corn and black bean salad or charred street corn are absolutely delightful sidekicks. Even simple seasoned rice or a chilled fruit salad can round out your taco night without stealing the show.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, set up a taco bar and let everyone build their own! Arrange the fish, slaw, and garnishes on a big platter, and hand out warm tortillas so each guest can customize. Or, double the recipe and serve as mini tacos for a party appetizer—Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw make a fantastic handheld snack that disappears in seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover fish or slaw, store each in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for two to three days. Keeping them apart ensures the slaw stays crisp, while the fish maintains its best texture. You’ll thank yourself for making extra—it’s just as tasty for lunch the next day!

Freezing

While the slaw won’t freeze well (that fresh crunch is best enjoyed right away), the seasoned, cooked fish can be popped into the freezer. Let it cool fully, wrap portions tightly, and freeze for up to two months. A quick thaw in the fridge and you’re just minutes away from a replay of taco night.

Reheating

Pop your leftover fish into the air fryer for 2-4 minutes at 350°F, just until warmed through. This brings back some of that initial crispness. Warm your tortillas separately, then build your tacos fresh with slaw and toppings as usual. Avoid microwaving the slaw to keep its texture at its lively best!

FAQs

Can I make Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw without an air fryer?

Absolutely! Just bake your seasoned fish fillets in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15 minutes or until they’re cooked through and flaky. For easy cleanup and perfect results, use parchment paper—same delicious flavor, no special equipment needed.

What if I want my tacos spicier (or milder)?

Adjust the amount of cayenne in your spice rub to control the heat level, or mix in a little hot sauce with the slaw for an extra kick. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply skip the cayenne or use half as much. Your Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw are totally customizable!

Can I use another type of fish?

Definitely! Tilapia, mahi mahi, and cod are all fabulous for this recipe, but you can use any firm, mild white fish you love (like halibut or haddock). Just watch your cooking time for thicker or thinner fillets, ensuring the fish flakes easily and isn’t overcooked.

Is the sugar in the slaw necessary?

The sugar is entirely optional! It gently balances the tang of lime and bitterness of raw cabbage, but if you prefer a brighter slaw or are cutting back on sugar, feel free to skip it. Taste as you mix the slaw and adjust—it’s all about what delights your palate.

How do I keep my fish from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Give your air fryer basket a generous mist of oil spray before adding the fish, and consider using perforated parchment paper designed for air fryers. This helps prevent sticking and keeps clean-up breezy. Also, avoid flipping the fish mid-cook to protect its delicate texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope these Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw bring as much joy to your table as they do mine. Crispy, spicy, and tangy, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any weeknight or gathering. Ready in just 20 minutes, there’s no reason not to dive in—grab your air fryer and enjoy taco night at its freshest and best!