Step 1: Prepare the Chips
- Peel and Cut the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin, even strips, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Soak the Potatoes: Place the potato strips in a bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch and makes the chips crispier.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Dry and Season the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a kitchen towel. Toss the potato strips with olive oil and your choice of seasonings.
- Cook the Chips: Place the potato strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches). Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. The chips are done when they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Fish
- Prepare the Breading Station:
- Flour Mixture: In a shallow dish, mix the flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Egg Mixture: In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Coat the Fish:
- Dredge in Flour Mixture: Dip each fish fillet into the flour mixture, coating it evenly and shaking off any excess.
- Dip in Egg Mixture: Next, dip the fillet into the egg mixture.
- Coat Again: Finally, coat the fish fillet again in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breading.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: If not already preheated, set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the Fish:
- Arrange in the Basket: Place the coated fish fillets in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each fillet for proper air circulation.
- Air Fry: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The fish is done when it is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 3: Serve
- Check for Doneness: Ensure both the fish and chips are cooked to your liking. If needed, give them a few extra minutes in the air fryer.
- Serve: Serve the crispy fish and chips with your favorite sides. Classic accompaniments include tartar sauce, malt vinegar, or a fresh lemon wedge.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Fish & Chips
- Uniform Size: Cut the potatoes and fish fillets into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure the food cooks evenly and becomes crispy.
- Customize Seasonings: Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Add Veggies: Include vegetables like bell peppers or onions with the chips for a complete meal.
- Sweet Potato Chips: Substitute regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist on the chips.
- Different Fish: Experiment with other types of fish such as tilapia or haddock, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Fish & Chips offer a healthier, faster alternative to the traditional fried version while still delivering that satisfying crispiness and flavor you love. With this recipe, you can enjoy a classic favorite without the guilt, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Enjoy your delicious, air-fried meal and savor every crispy bite!