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Crusty topped blackened fish filet on top of coleslaw in a gray bowl.
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5 from 1 vote

Blackened Mahi Mahi (Air Fryer Recipe)

With bold Cajun spices and a quick cook time, this healthy mahi mahi recipe is on the table in just 7-8 minutes. Serve with coleslaw and riced mashed potatoes.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time8 minutes
Total Time13 minutes
Course: Dinner, Entree, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4
Calories: 160kcal

Equipment

  • 6 quart air fryer

Ingredients

Fish

  • 1 ½ pounds mahi mahi filets (4 - 6 ounce filets) see substitutes below
  • avocado oil spray

Blackening seasoning (makes ½ cup)

  • 2 tablespoon smoked paprika or sweet paprika, traditional
  • 1 tablespoon granulated garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper optional but adds depth
  • ¼-1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper use more for spicy or omit for heat sensitive, or swap chipotle powder

Instructions

  • Add all of the blackening seasoning ingredients to a jar and shake well to blend.
  • Cut the mahi mahi into 4 equal 6-ounces filets. Give them a quick spray of avocado oil and cover the tops with blackening seasoning.
  • Ready the air fryer, setting it to to 385°F. Give the rack a quick spritz of oil if needed. Add the mahi mahi when the air fryer is ready and cook for 7-8 minutes or until the mahi reads 145°F with a digital thermometer.
    Remove from the air fryer and serve right away with wedges of lemon.

Notes

Best Substitutes for Mahi Mahi:
  • Salmon – Rich and meaty, holds together well and takes on bold seasoning beautifully.
  • Halibut – Mild, firm, and slightly sweet. Great texture, though a bit pricier.
  • Cod (loin cut) – Mild and flaky but still firm enough for this recipe if handled gently as it falls apart easily.
  • Snapper – Red snapper; lean with a nice texture and mild flavor.
  • Grouper – Similar to mahi in firmness and mildness, terrific if you can get it

Nutrition

Serving: 6ounces | Calories: 160kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 124mg | Sodium: 152mg | Potassium: 785mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 1215IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 49mg | Iron: 3mg