Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Mahi Mahi is a quick, healthy, and flavorful seafood dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With a crispy exterior and a moist, flaky center, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under 20 minutes. It pairs beautifully with vegetables, rice, or salad, making it a versatile option for any meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

mahi mahi fillets
olive oil
garlic powder
paprika
onion powder
lemon juice
salt
black pepper
fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
lemon wedges (for serving)

directions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels.

Brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil.

In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over the fillets.

Place the seasoned fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Drizzle with lemon juice before serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2 servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 8-10 minutes
Total time: 13-15 minutes

Variations

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Use Cajun or blackened seasoning for a bold flavor twist.
Top with a mango or pineapple salsa for a tropical flair.
Serve over rice bowls with avocado and slaw for a balanced meal.
Brush with teriyaki or garlic butter sauce before air frying for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes or until warmed through.
Avoid microwaving to preserve the crisp texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen mahi mahi?

Yes, but thaw it completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the fillets at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes.

How do I know when mahi mahi is done?

The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 137°F (58°C).

Can I marinate the mahi mahi?

Yes, a 15-30 minute marinade with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs works well.

Can I cook multiple fillets at once?

Yes, but avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even cooking.

Is mahi mahi a good source of protein?

Yes, it’s high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthy seafood choice.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Mahi Mahi is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings out the best in this lean, firm fish. Whether you’re aiming for a healthy dinner or a fast weeknight option, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and ease. Try it with your favorite sides for a delicious and nutritious meal.