Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Creamy Slaw – Crispy, Light & Perfectly Low-Carb!

Looking for a flaky, crispy, and healthy taco option that’s loaded with flavor and ready in under 20 minutes? These Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Creamy Slaw are exactly what you need. With golden-brown fish fillets, a refreshing low-carb slaw, and optional grain-free tortillas or lettuce wraps, this dish brings all the bold taste of coastal cuisine to your kitchen—without frying or unnecessary carbs.

Perfect for weeknight dinners , meal prep , or when you’re craving something fresh and satisfying, these keto-friendly tacos use simple ingredients like cod, almond flour, cabbage, and mayo to create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet , doing low-carb eating , or just love seafood, these air fryer fish tacos will quickly become a favorite in your weekly rotation.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these perfect air fryer fish tacos from scratch , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s get cooking!

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Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Fish Tacos

These aren’t just any old tacos—they’re a crunchy, flaky, flavor-packed delight made with real ingredients that bring bold texture and taste together beautifully.

Here’s why they stand out:

• 🐟 Light and flaky fish : Cooked perfectly in the air fryer—no oil bath needed!
• 🥗 Creamy coleslaw topping : Adds cool contrast and crunch.
• 🌮 Low-carb wrap or lettuce shell options : Naturally gluten-free and keto-approved.
• 🍋 Quick and easy : Just coat, cook, and assemble—done in minutes!
• ⏱️ Ready in under 20 minutes
• 🧁 Great for family dinners or casual entertaining
• 🧼 Easy cleanup : One tray and one bowl = minimal mess!

Whether you’re making them for yourself, your kids, or guests at a dinner party, these fish tacos will quickly become a go-to comfort dish for taco Tuesdays and beyond.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Fish:

• 2 boneless white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or halibut)
• 1/2 cup almond flour or crushed pork rinds (for crispy coating)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (optional, for crispier finish)

For the Creamy Slaw:

• 1 cup shredded green or purple cabbage
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lime juice
• 1 tsp mustard (Dijon or regular)
• Pinch of salt and pepper
• Optional: Chopped cilantro or parsley for freshness

For Serving:

• Low-carb tortillas or large butter lettuce leaves
• Lime wedges
• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Hot sauce or chipotle crema (optional)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 3–5 minutes.

Tip: Use parchment paper liners or lightly grease the basket if needed.

Step 2: Season the Fish

Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to help them crisp up.

Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder.

Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Coat the Fish

Place almond flour or crushed pork rinds into a shallow dish.

Brush each fish fillet lightly with olive oil or avocado oil.

Dredge each piece in the flour or pork rind mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Pro Tip: Flip halfway during cooking for even browning.

Step 4: Air Fry the Fish

Place the coated fish fillets in the air fryer basket without overlapping.

Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes , flipping halfway through.

The fish should be golden brown, crispy on the outside, and flaky inside.

Let rest for 2–3 minutes before assembling.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Slaw

In a small mixing bowl, combine:

• Shredded cabbage
• Carrots

In another bowl, whisk together:

• Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• Apple cider vinegar or lime juice
• Mustard
• Salt and pepper

Pour over the cabbage and toss until evenly coated.

Optional: Add chopped herbs like cilantro or dill for extra brightness.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Serve warm by placing the crispy fish fillet inside a low-carb tortilla or atop a bed of lettuce.

Top generously with creamy slaw, a squeeze of lime, and optional hot sauce or avocado slices.

Enjoy every crunchy, savory bite of your Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Creamy Slaw !

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Nutritional Information (Per Taco – Makes 4 Servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~200 kcal
Total Fat	~13 g
Saturated Fat	~3 g
Cholesterol	~40 mg
Sodium	~300 mg
Total Carbs	~6 g
Dietary Fiber	~2 g
Net Carbs	~4 g
Protein	~15 g

Note: Values may vary slightly depending on brand and exact measurements.

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Tips for the Best Air Fryer Fish Tacos

1. Use thick fillets – Thin cuts can overcook and dry out quickly.
2. Don’t overcrowd the basket – Ensures even airflow and crispiness.
3. Brush with oil before coating – Helps the crust stick better.
4. Try different spices – Cajun seasoning or Old Bay adds great variety.
5. Make ahead and store – Fish is best served fresh, but slaw keeps well refrigerated.

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Variations & Customizations

Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:

Baked Version

Use oven-safe parchment-lined baking sheets and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.

Spicy Fish Tacos

Add hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the slaw or drizzle Sriracha over the top.

Grilled Fish Option

Cook on a cast iron grill pan or outdoor grill for smoky depth.

Vegan Fish Tacos

Use tofu “fish” strips or banana blossom for plant-based versions.

Extra Crunch

Add crushed nuts or seeds to the coating for added texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are these truly keto-friendly?

Yes! With only ~4g net carbs per taco , it fits perfectly within a ketogenic lifestyle.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes! White fish like hake, snapper, or pollock work well too.

How do I store leftover fish?

Store cooled cooked fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven.

What kind of tortillas work best?

Look for keto tortillas made with almond flour, coconut flour, or flaxseed.

Can I freeze uncooked fish fillets?

Yes! Breaded fish can be frozen raw on a tray, then stored in bags for future cooking.

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Why This Recipe Works So Well

These Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Creamy Slaw work because of their perfect balance of textures and bold flavors:

• The air fryer crisps the coating while keeping the fish moist and tender.
• The slaw gives a cool, tangy contrast that balances the heat and richness.
• And the taco shell or lettuce wrap holds everything together in a handheld form.

It’s the kind of dish that makes eating clean feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.

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Serving Suggestions

Looking for creative ways to serve your fish tacos beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:

In Lettuce Cups

Wrap in butter lettuce or romaine leaves for a refreshing handheld option.

Over Greens

Place on a bed of arugula or kale with citrus vinaigrette for a salad twist.

With Dipping Sauces

Serve with chipotle mayo, lime crema, or mango salsa for extra flair.

At a Party

Cut into bite-sized pieces and arrange on a platter with toothpicks for appetizer bites.

With Side Dishes

Pair with roasted cauliflower rice, zucchini fries, or Mexican-style fat bombs.

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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dish special:

White Fish

High in lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids—great for muscle repair and brain function.

Almond Flour

Rich in vitamin E and magnesium—supports heart and skin health.

Cabbage

Packed with fiber and antioxidants—supports digestion and immunity.

Even though these are tacos, they’re packed with nutrients that make them more than just a snack—it’s a smart addition to your balanced low-carb lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully.

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Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Dish for Seafood Lovers

These Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Creamy Slaw prove that going low-carb doesn’t mean missing out on bold global flavors. With their crispy fish, refreshing slaw, and light seasoning, they’re the kind of meal that turns a simple taco into something magical.

Whether you’re new to keto, looking for a quick dinner idea, or want to impress with homemade flair, these tacos deserve a spot in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.

So go ahead—whip up a batch, share them with friends, or savor them solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something truly special.

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