Garlic lime air fryer mahi mahi is a bright, flavorful dinner with tender, flaky fish and lightly browned edges. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C), then cook the mahi mahi for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The quick garlic-lime seasoning makes this an easy weeknight meal that is ready in about 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 4 mahi mahi fillets, about 5 to 6 ounces each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lime zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, optional
How To Make It
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels. Drying the surface helps the seasoning adhere and encourages better browning.
Stir together the olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Brush the mixture over both sides of each fillet.
Lightly grease the air fryer basket, then arrange the fish in a single layer with a little space between the pieces. Work in batches if necessary rather than overlapping the fillets.
Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping carefully after 4 to 5 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fish and your air fryer model.
While the fish cooks, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Brush this garlic butter over the hot fillets when they come out of the air fryer. Finish with an extra squeeze of lime and cilantro or parsley, if desired.
Tips
- Mahi mahi is done when it is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and reaches 145°F (63°C) in the thickest part.
- Start checking thinner fillets around 7 minutes to prevent them from becoming dry.
- If using frozen mahi mahi, thaw it completely and pat it very dry before seasoning.
- Turn the fish with a thin spatula so the fillets do not break apart.
- Serve it with rice, roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or warm tortillas for quick fish tacos.
This garlic lime mahi mahi is fresh, fast, and perfect for busy nights when you want a seafood dinner with minimal cleanup.
