Air Fryer Cajun Blackened Catfish

Name: Air Fryer Cajun Blackened Catfish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each, skin removed); 2 tablespoons smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon dried thyme; 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil; Lemon wedges, for serving; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished Apr 12, 2026 | Updated Jun 16, 2026

A quick and flavorful Southern American seafood recipe featuring catfish fillets seasoned with a spicy Cajun blackening spice blend and crisped perfectly in the air fryer. ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Start cooking

Air fryerSouthern AmericanEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time12 mins

Total Time22 mins

Servings4

Temperature400°F / 200°C

Ingredients

Servings4

4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each, skin removed)
2 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried thyme
2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
Lemon wedges, for serving
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and ground cumin to make the Cajun blackening spice blend.
Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels to help the spice rub stick.
Brush each fillet lightly with olive or avocado oil on both sides.
Sprinkle the Cajun spice blend generously over each fillet, pressing gently to coat evenly.
Arrange the seasoned fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding for optimal crisping.
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even blackening and crisp crust.
Check doneness: the fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Remove fillets carefully and let rest for 1-2 minutes.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the catfish fillets dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.