How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?

Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.

Air Fryer Spicy Cajun Catfish Tacos with Lime Slaw

Name: Air Fryer Spicy Cajun Catfish Tacos with Lime Slaw
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 4-5 strips; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 6 small corn tortillas, warmed; 1 cup shredded green cabbage; 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage; 1/4 cup grated carrot; 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro; Juice of 1 lime; 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste; Lime wedges, for serving

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished Mar 31, 2026 | Updated Jun 16, 2026

Air Fryer Spicy Cajun Catfish Tacos with Lime Slaw with ingredient quantities, 22-minute timing, 4-serving yield, air fryer temperature, and step-by-step instructions.

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Air fryerSouthern AmericanEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time10 mins

Cook Time12 mins

Total Time22 mins

Servings4

Temperature400°F / 200°C

Ingredients

Servings4

1 lb catfish fillets, cut into 4-5 strips
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 large egg
1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes
1 tablespoon olive oil
6 small corn tortillas, warmed
1 cup shredded green cabbage
1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
1/4 cup grated carrot
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg until well beaten.
In a separate bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Dip each catfish strip into the beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
Lightly spray or brush the catfish strips with olive oil to help them crisp up in the air fryer.
Place the coated catfish strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
While the catfish cooks, prepare the lime slaw by mixing shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, grated carrot, and cilantro in a bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the slaw and toss well to combine.
Warm the corn tortillas on a dry skillet or in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes until pliable.
Assemble the tacos by placing 1-2 catfish strips on each tortilla, topping with a generous scoop of lime slaw. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Enjoy your spicy, crunchy, and flavorful Cajun catfish tacos!

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.

Storage

Store leftover Air Fryer Spicy Cajun Catfish Tacos with Lime Slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.

FAQ

Can I make Air Fryer Spicy Cajun Catfish Tacos with Lime Slaw ahead of time?: You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?: Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.