How To Reheat Fried Fish In Your Air Fryer For Maximum Crispiness

Reheating leftover fried fish can easily pose a culinary dilemma. While microwaving is quick and oven baking is effective, they both come with a compromise. The microwave often leaves the fish soggy, and the oven, while retaining some of the crispiness, can dry it out, not to forget how long the process will take. Enter the air fryer, a game-changer in the reheating game. This kitchen appliance has won many fans for its ability to mimic the crispy results of deep frying without all the oil.

What gives the air fryer its edge, especially when it comes to reheating dishes like fried fish, is its unique mechanism of operation. Unlike traditional cooking methods that rely on direct heat or immersion in oil, the air fryer uses rapid air circulation technology. It circulates hot air around the food at high speeds, ensuring every nook and cranny is evenly cooked and crisped. This circulation not only cooks items efficiently but also ensures moisture is retained within, while the exterior achieves that desired crispy finish.

Whether you're reheating battered or breaded fish, the air fryer process is the same. Start by ensuring your appliance is clean. Leftover crumbs or grease can burn and impart an off-taste to your seafood. Next, preheat the air fryer to 320 degrees Fahrenheit. While many models don't strictly require preheating, giving it a few minutes to warm up ensures consistent results.

Once preheated, gently place the fried fish pieces inside the basket in one layer without overlapping. Overlapping can cause the pieces to steam rather than re-crisp, leading to sogginess. If this is the case, it might be wise to reheat them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Now spray or rub a little oil on top to enhance the browning and crisping process.

Air fry the meat for five to seven minutes, making sure to flip it at half the time so both sides develop a crunch. Remember, this cooking time can vary depending on the thickness and the air fryer's make and model, so monitor how the reheating goes and adjust the time as needed. Once the fish is heated through (the internal temperature should be 145 degrees Fahrenheit), carefully remove it from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Lastly, place the pieces on a plate lined with paper towels for a few seconds to soak up any excess oil. Then serve immediately for the crispiest experience.