Introduction
Down in Louisiana, catfish isn't treated like a healthy option. It's treated like a celebration. Blackened seasoning was made famous by Cajun cooking — a bold mix of spices that creates a dark crust packed with flavour while keeping the fish moist and flaky underneath. The air fryer does a brilliant job here, giving you that deep smoky Cajun crust without filling the kitchen with smoke alarms and regret. Big flavour. Crispy edges. Proper Southern comfort food.
You’ll Need
4 catfish fillets
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp sweet paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp sea salt
½ tsp black pepper
Juice of ½ lemon
To Finish
Fresh parsley
Lemon wedges
Optional but Dangerous
Corn on the cob
Cajun fries
Coleslaw
Garlic butter
Method
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C.
Pat the catfish fillets completely dry using kitchen paper.
In a bowl mix together the smoked paprika, sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Brush the fish lightly with olive oil.
Coat both sides generously in the Cajun seasoning mix.
Place the catfish fillets into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry at 200°C for 8–10 minutes until the fish flakes easily and develops a dark crust around the edges.
During the final minute, squeeze over the lemon juice.
Remove carefully and allow to rest for 1 minute.
Finish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Serve immediately with corn, fries, or coleslaw if using.