Name: Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 Servings
Cuisine: American

It is a Keeper Verified

February 18, 2026

Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets are sure to impress, whether you’re a catfish fan or just looking to try a new fish recipe! They are quick to make, family friendly, and offer a delightful crunch with each bite. Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets are a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste! Whether you’re hosting a game night or simply craving some delicious comfort food, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With its perfectly golden and crunchy exterior, pair with tender and succulent fish on the inside, catfish nuggets are bound to become your new go-to snack or appetizer.

From the Cook

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Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets

It is a Keeper Verified

Ingredients

WarningMilk and 6 other allergens identified

Instructions

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Instructions

Set your airfryer to 390F and let it preheat.

Slice the catfish into 1-inch pieces. Place on a plate and set aside.

Mix the buttermilk and egg in a shallow bowl. Set aside.

Mix together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper in another shallow bowl until well combined.

Coat every catfish nugget in the cornmeal mixture, followed by the egg-milk mixture, and once more in the cornmeal mixture.

After breading all the catfish nuggets, proceed to add them to the preheated airfryer in multiple batches, depending on the size of your airfryer.

Bake the nuggets for 5 minutes, making sure to shake or flip them halfway through.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

Buttermilk Brine Magic 🥛
Soak catfish nuggets in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes before breading to tenderize the fish and enhance its natural flavor profile.
Cornmeal Crunch Technique 🌽
Mix cornmeal with all-purpose flour and Cajun seasoning to create a super-crispy, well-seasoned coating that adheres perfectly to the fish.
Air Fryer Spacing Secret 🍽️
Arrange catfish nuggets in a single layer with slight gaps between each piece to ensure maximum air circulation and achieve an even, golden-brown crunch.
Breading Double-Dip Trick 🥚
For extra crispy nuggets, double-dip each piece: first in egg wash, then flour mixture, then egg again, and final coating of seasoned cornmeal mix.
Temperature Precision 🌡️
Maintain air fryer temperature at 400°F and cook catfish nuggets for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking and perfect golden exterior.

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About the Cook

It is a Keeper

Hi! I’m Christina… welcome to my kitchen! It’s so nice to meet you! I share tried and true recipes that anyone can make. I believe, if you can read, you can cook.