Name: Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 ½ lb tilapia or white fish (mahi mahi, cod, etc.); 1 tsp chili powder; ½ tsp oregano; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp paprika; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spiciness); ¼ tsp onion powder; ¼ tsp cumin; ½ tsp sea salt; ½ tsp cracked black pepper; Olive oil spray and brush; 2½ cups cole slaw mix; 3 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; ⅓ cup chopped cilantro; ½ tsp sugar (optional); ¼ tsp sea salt (adjust to taste); ¼ tsp cracked black pepper; Tortillas; Extra lime juice for squeezing

If you’ve been searching for a vibrant, flavorful, and wonderfully easy dinner, then you absolutely need to try this Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned fish cooked to flaky perfection in your air fryer, paired with a crisp, tangy slaw that brightens every bite. It’s a dish that feels fresh and light but is packed with personality and satisfying textures — a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white round plate holds four light beige fish fillets with smooth texture, arranged flat on white parchment paper near the top right. Around it are several small white bowls: one with bright green cilantro leaves, one with a mix of colorful spices including red, brown, and green powders, one half lime slice, one half lime on the top left, one with pale yellow minced garlic, one with pale pink sauce, one with light yellow oil, and one with black pepper. In the lower center, there is a clear glass bowl filled with shredded white, purple, and orange cabbage mixed for slaw. To the bottom left, there is a stack of round, light beige tortillas on a white plate. All items are set over a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful choice of ingredients. Each one has a pivotal role, whether it’s bringing vibrant spice, fresh acidity, creamy texture, or that irresistible crunch that makes these tacos truly special. Let’s walk through the essentials that come together effortlessly for maximum flavor impact.

1 ½ lb tilapia or white fish: A mild, flaky fish like mahi mahi or cod works perfectly for tender, juicy tacos.
1 tsp chili powder: Adds a warm, smoky base flavor that wakes up the palate.
½ tsp oregano: Offers a subtle herbaceous note that complements the spices.
½ tsp garlic powder: For a gentle, savory depth without overpowering the fish.
½ tsp paprika: Brings a smoky sweetness and adds a lovely color to the coating.
¼ tsp cayenne: Adjustable to your heat preference, this gives just the right kick.
¼ tsp onion powder: Adds mild sharpness that balances the other spices.
¼ tsp cumin: A warm earthiness that pairs beautifully with chili powder.
½ tsp sea salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the fish.
½ tsp cracked pepper: Freshly cracked for a bright, peppery finish.
2½ cups cole slaw mix: The crisp base for the slaw, providing crunch and freshness.
3 tablespoons mayonnaise: Brings creaminess and helps bind the slaw with tang.
1 tablespoon lime juice: Adds a zesty citrus brightness that lifts the entire dish.
1 garlic clove, minced: For an extra punch of fresh garlic flavor in the slaw.
⅓ cup chopped cilantro: The star herb of this slaw that adds fresh, aromatic notes.
½ tsp sugar (optional): Balances acidity and adds a subtle hint of sweetness if desired.
¼ tsp sea salt: Season to taste to make the slaw pop.
¼ tsp cracked pepper: Just a touch for a little extra bite.
Tortillas: Soft flour or corn tortillas, warmed to wrap all the goodness.
Extra lime juice: For that final squeeze of fresh citrus on top.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Spice Rub

The foundation of perfectly flavorful fish starts with an aromatic spice blend. In a small bowl, stir together chili powder, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, onion powder, cumin, sea salt, and cracked pepper. This vibrant mix sets the tone for the fish, giving it complexity and depth without needing any complicated sauces.

Step 2: Season and Oil the Fish

Make sure your fish fillets are patted dry before you lay them out in the air fryer basket sprayed with oil to prevent sticking. Brush the fish gently with olive oil to help the spice rub adhere and keep everything moist. Coat the fish generously with your spice blend; press it in lightly for maximum flavor penetration. A quick spritz of oil over the top seals in moisture and helps create that lovely crust.

Step 3: Air Fry to Flaky Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the fish for 8 to 10 minutes. It’s done when the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This quick, high-heat cooking method locks in juiciness while delivering a crisp exterior that’s anything but oily. An internal temp of 145 degrees ensures food safety and optimal texture.

Step 4: Toss Your Cilantro Lime Slaw

While the fish is sizzling away, whip up the bright, creamy slaw. Combine cole slaw mix, mayonnaise, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, sugar (if using), sea salt, and cracked pepper in a bowl. The creamy tang from the mayo paired with zesty lime and fresh cilantro makes a refreshing crunch to balance the warm, spiced fish.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Once the fish has cooled slightly, cut it into bite-sized pieces and place them into warmed tortillas. Top generously with the cilantro lime slaw, then finish with an extra squeeze of fresh lime juice for that perfect punch of citrusy brightness. The interplay of textures and flavors here is absolutely irresistible.

How to Serve Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with several colorful layers of ingredients. The bottom layer is a mix of shredded light green and purple cabbage with some thin orange carrot strips. On top of this mix, there is a small pile of finely chopped bright green cilantro on the right side, next to a dollop of creamy white sauce. In front of the sauce, there is a small amount of finely grated pale yellow ginger. On the left side, some coarse black pepper is visible over the cabbage. Above the bowl and to the left, there is a woman’s hand-held wooden citrus juicer with a half lime resting on it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

You can elevate your tacos with vibrant garnishes like sliced avocado for creaminess, pickled red onions for tang, or a handful of fresh jalapeño slices for heat. A sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco adds a salty contrast that pairs beautifully with the slaw.

Side Dishes

Keep it easy and complementary with sides like black beans and rice, grilled corn on the cob, or a simple avocado and tomato salad. These choices balance the bright, fresh flavors of the tacos without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the fish and slaw in crispy taco shells or lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative. You can even do mini slider-style tacos by cutting tortillas into smaller rounds and toasting them for bite-sized delights that are perfect for parties or appetizers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover fish and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 to 3 days. Keep tortillas wrapped to maintain softness. This makes for easy next-day lunches or a quick dinner fix.

Freezing

While the fish is best fresh, you can freeze cooked portions by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in freezer bags. Slaw does not freeze well due to its creamy nature, so make a fresh batch when ready to eat again.

Reheating

To reheat the fish, pop it back into the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 to 4 minutes until warmed through. This method keeps the fish moist and helps revive its crisp exterior without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish in this recipe?

Absolutely! While tilapia, mahi mahi, and cod are recommended, any mild white fish with firm flesh works well. Just adjust cooking time if your fillets are thicker or thinner.

Is there a way to make the slaw dairy-free?

Yes, swap out mayonnaise for a dairy-free alternative or use Greek yogurt if tolerated. You can also make a lime vinaigrette to toss with the slaw instead of a creamy dressing.

How do I adjust the spice level?

The cayenne pepper controls the heat here. Use less if you prefer mild flavors, or add more for a stronger kick. You can also offer hot sauce on the side for those who like extra spice.

Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?

You can make the slaw up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated, but the fish is best cooked fresh to enjoy its optimal texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to warm tortillas?

Warm tortillas on a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side or wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds. This keeps them soft and pliable, perfect for folding around your tacos.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward steps can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it delivers fresh, vibrant flavors with easy cleanup and minimal fuss. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself craving these tacos again and again!

Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need