You’re about to discover how your air fryer can transform ordinary mahi mahi into crispy, flavorful masterpieces without the added calories of deep-frying.
These eight recipes deliver restaurant-quality results in less than 15 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or impressive enough for weekend entertaining.
From classic lemon herb with golden panko crusts to exotic coconut crusting with tropical salsa, each option offers a healthy alternative that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
Ready to revolutionize your seafood game with these simple yet sophisticated dishes?
Classic Lemon Herb Mahi Mahi With Crispy Panko Crust
This air fryer Mahi Mahi recipe delivers perfectly flaky fish with a golden, crispy panko crust infused with bright lemon and fresh herbs. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s both healthy and impressive for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 4 Mahi Mahi fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons water
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Step 2: Pat the Mahi Mahi fillets dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 3: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, parsley, dill, lemon zest, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until breadcrumbs are evenly coated with oil and herbs.
Step 4: In another bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash.
Step 5: Dip each Mahi Mahi fillet into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated, then press into the panko mixture, covering both sides completely.
Step 6: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated fillets in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size.
Step 7: Lightly spray the tops of the fillets with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
Step 8: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Step 9: Carefully remove the fish from the air fryer and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Sugar: 1g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
Spicy Cajun Mahi Mahi Tenders With Garlic Aioli
These crispy Cajun-spiced mahi mahi tenders deliver a perfect balance of heat and flavor, while the cooling garlic aioli provides a delicious contrast.
Ready in just 15 minutes, this air fryer recipe transforms simple fish fillets into restaurant-quality tenders with a fraction of the oil and calories of deep-fried versions.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mahi mahi fillets, cut into 1-inch strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Aioli:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat the mahi mahi strips dry with paper towels. This guarantees the seasoning sticks well and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Brush the fish strips with olive oil, then coat thoroughly with the spice mixture.
Step 4: Roll each seasoned strip in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 6: Place the fish strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size.
Step 7: Cook for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 8: While the fish cooks, prepare the garlic aioli by combining all aioli ingredients in a small bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 9: Transfer the cooked fish tenders to a serving plate and serve immediately with the garlic aioli on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 285 per serving
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Sugar: 1g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Coconut-Crusted Mahi Mahi With Pineapple Salsa
Transform your dinner with this tropical-inspired coconut-crusted mahi mahi, perfectly cooked in the air fryer for a crispy exterior while maintaining the fish’s delicate texture.
Paired with a vibrant pineapple salsa, this dish brings the flavors of island cuisine to your table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons coconut milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
For the pineapple salsa:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour mixed with garlic powder and paprika; one with beaten eggs and coconut milk whisked together; and one with panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut combined.
Step 3: Dredge each fillet in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat with the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Step 5: Place the coated fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
Step 6: Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: While the fish cooks, prepare the pineapple salsa by combining all salsa ingredients in a bowl. Gently mix and let sit for flavors to meld.
Step 8: Serve the hot coconut-crusted mahi mahi topped with fresh pineapple salsa.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 385 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 520mg
Mediterranean Herb-Crusted Mahi Mahi With Olive Tapenade
Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast with this herb-crusted Mahi Mahi that’s perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. The olive tapenade adds a briny punch that complements the delicate fish beautifully, all made simple with the magic of an air fryer.
Ingredients:
- 4 Mahi Mahi fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
For the olive tapenade:
- 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat the Mahi Mahi fillets dry with paper towels and place them in a shallow dish.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the fish, ensuring all sides are coated. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Meanwhile, prepare the herb crust by combining oregano, basil, thyme, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 5: Remove the fish from the marinade and press each fillet into the herb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.
Step 6: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated fillets in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
Step 7: Air fry for 10-12 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
Step 8: While the fish cooks, prepare the olive tapenade by combining all tapenade ingredients in a food processor. Pulse until chunky but well combined.
Step 9: Serve the hot Mahi Mahi fillets with a generous spoonful of olive tapenade on top or on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Honey Mustard Mahi Mahi Fillets With Crunchy Pecan Coating
Elevate your seafood dinner with this delightful air fryer mahi mahi recipe. The sweet honey mustard glaze pairs perfectly with the crunchy pecan coating, creating a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort. This version cooks quickly in the air fryer, resulting in perfectly flaky fish with a golden crust.
Ingredients:
- 4 mahi mahi fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup pecans, finely chopped
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Step 2: Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 3: In a shallow bowl, mix together the honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 4: In another shallow bowl, combine the finely chopped pecans, panko breadcrumbs, and olive oil. Mix until the breadcrumbs are slightly moistened.
Step 5: Brush each mahi mahi fillet generously with the honey mustard mixture on all sides.
Step 6: Press each coated fillet into the pecan-breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
Step 7: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil spray.
Step 8: Place the coated fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Work in batches if necessary.
Step 9: Cook for 8-10 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Step 10: Carefully remove the fillets from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes.
Step 11: Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and garnish with chopped parsley.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 480mg
Zesty Southwest Mahi Mahi Tacos With Lime Crema
Elevate your taco night with these delicious air fryer mahi mahi tacos featuring bold Southwest flavors and a cooling lime crema. The air fryer creates perfectly flaky fish with minimal oil, while the zesty seasonings and fresh toppings create a balanced, restaurant-quality dish in minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mahi mahi fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 2 limes (1 for crema, 1 cut into wedges for serving)
For the lime crema:
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon lime zest
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels. Brush with olive oil and coat evenly with the spice mixture.
Step 3: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 4: Place the seasoned mahi mahi in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd.
Step 5: Cook for 8-10 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: While the fish cooks, prepare the lime crema by combining Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 7: Warm the tortillas in the microwave or in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side.
Step 8: When the fish is done, let it rest for 2 minutes, then gently break it into chunks with a fork.
Step 9: Assemble the tacos by placing fish chunks on each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, red onion, and avocado slices.
Step 10: Drizzle lime crema over each taco, sprinkle with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 285 per taco
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 245mg
- Cholesterol: 92mg
- Sugar: 2g
Sesame-Ginger Crusted Mahi Mahi With Asian Slaw
This crispy air-fried Mahi Mahi delivers a perfect balance of nutty sesame coating and zesty ginger flavor.
Paired with a revitalizing Asian slaw, this dish offers a healthy, flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes – making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something impressive yet simple.
Ingredients:
- 4 Mahi Mahi fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds (mix of white and black if available)
- 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups pre-shredded coleslaw mix
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: In a shallow dish, combine 2 tablespoons sesame oil, minced ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and honey to create a marinade.
Place Mahi Mahi fillets in the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
Step 2: Meanwhile, in another bowl, combine sesame seeds, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the slaw by combining coleslaw mix, sliced bell pepper, carrots, and green onions in a large bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together remaining 1 tablespoon sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and lime juice. Pour over the slaw and toss to coat. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 5: Remove Mahi Mahi from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
Press each fillet into the sesame seed mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.
Step 6: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil.
Place the coated fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches.
Step 7: Cook for 10-12 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through, until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 8: Add chopped cilantro to the slaw and toss again.
Step 9: Serve the crispy Mahi Mahi over the Asian slaw, garnish with additional sesame seeds and lime wedges if desired.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 385 per serving
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Cholesterol: 124mg
Parmesan and Herb Mahi Mahi Bites With Avocado Dipping Sauce
These crispy, golden Mahi Mahi bites are the perfect appetizer or main dish when you’re craving something light yet satisfying. The air fryer creates a wonderfully crunchy exterior while keeping the fish moist and tender inside. Paired with a creamy avocado dipping sauce, these bites offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Mahi Mahi fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Olive oil spray
For avocado dipping sauce:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Pat the Mahi Mahi cubes dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper.
Step 3: Dredge each fish cube in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Step 5: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the breaded fish cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil.
Step 6: Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: While the fish is cooking, prepare the avocado dipping sauce by combining all sauce ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth and creamy.
Step 8: Serve the hot Mahi Mahi bites immediately with the avocado dipping sauce on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 285 per serving
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Serving size: Approximately 6-8 bites with 2 tablespoons sauce
Final Thoughts
With these 8 air fryer mahi mahi recipes, you’ll cut cooking time by 60% compared to conventional oven methods while reducing fat content by up to 75%.
You’re not just saving time—you’re crafting restaurant-quality seafood with perfectly crisp exteriors and moist, flaky centers.
The versatility of these preparations guarantees you’ll never tire of this omega-3 rich fish, whether you’re craving bold Cajun spices or delicate Asian flavors.
