Fish en Papillote | Air Fryer Parchment Fish

Fish en Papillote is just a fancy way of saying fish cooked in parchment paper. It's pretty popular, and that's because how easy it is to make, but really also because of how delicate, flakey, and perfectly it cooks up. Making it in the air fryer makes it even easier and quicker, and the fish turns out so perfect every time.

Why You'll Love This Parchment Packet Fish Recipe

The clean-up is so minimal with this recipe that it makes me want to cook it even more often. Eat it as a stand-alone dish, or serve it with rice to make an even more well-rounded dish.

Obviously, you can choose the veggies that are cooked with this, but keep in mind that sturdier vegetables like broccoli may not cook in the amount of time the fish needs to cook. You don't want to overcook the fish, because it will dry out.

You can also vary the fish that you use, although you may need to test cooking times if you use thicker pieces than what you see in my picture.

Why You Should Use Parchment Paper To Cook Fish

The parchment paper does four things.

First, it seals in the moisture so the fish can cook and still keep in all the amazing juice to keep the fish light and fluffy, and the veggies flavorful.

Second, it makes clean-up so simple. The parchment paper keeps all the mess together so it's just lifted and done.

Third, it contains the seafood odors better than if you'd just cooked fish and vegetables on the stovetop for example.

But the other neat thing is watching your guests open the packets of food. It's a mini Christmas because here you are, with a fragrant, steaming packet of SOMETHING--but you don't know what it is until you open it! This fourth benefit of cooking this way is my favorite part of using parchment paper packets.

I love serving this fish en papillote still wrapped in parchment paper, and then watching as people open it to discover their little portion of perfectly cooked fish, steaming vegetables and a light broth at the bottom of the packet.

What Does It Taste Like?

Air Fryer Fish en Papillote has a light, delicate, and beautifully balanced flavor that’s both fresh and comforting. The fish itself turns out incredibly tender and moist, almost buttery in texture, as it gently steams inside the parchment packet.

The lemon juice adds a bright, tangy freshness that cuts through the richness of the butter, while the tarragon infuses the fish with subtle, aromatic notes that feel elegant and refined. The vegetables, like carrots, fennel, and red peppers, soften as they cook, releasing a touch of natural sweetness that mingles with the savory juices of the fish.

Every bite tastes clean and flavorful, with a perfect harmony of buttery richness, citrus brightness, and herbaceous freshness, making it a dish that feels both healthy and indulgent.

Is It Healthy?

Yes, Air Fryer Fish en Papillote is a very healthy dish. It’s naturally low in calories and high in lean protein, making it an excellent choice for a balanced meal.

Because the fish is cooked in parchment paper, it steams in its own juices along with fresh vegetables and herbs, requiring very little added fat or oil. This gentle cooking method preserves nutrients, moisture, and flavor without the need for breading or frying.

The addition of ingredients like carrots, fennel, and red peppers boosts the vitamin and fiber content, while a touch of olive oil and butter provides healthy fats for flavor and satiety.

Overall, this dish is heart-friendly, nutrient-dense, and light. It's perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 2 Cod Fillets- The centerpiece of the dish. Cod is a mild, flaky white fish that cooks gently inside the parchment packet, absorbing the steam and flavors from the vegetables, herbs, and seasonings. The parchment method keeps the fish moist and tender while concentrating its natural sweetness.
• 1/2 cup Julienned Carrots- Add a subtle sweetness, color, and a bit of texture contrast.
  1/2 cup Julienned Fennel Bulbs- Contribute a mild, anise-like flavor that enhances the freshness of the dish. Fennel gives a slightly aromatic sweetness.
  1/2 cup Thinly Sliced Red Peppers- Add natural sweetness, vibrant color, and moisture. They soften while cooking, infusing the fish with a touch of mild, peppery flavor.
• 2 Sprigs Tarragon- Lends a delicate, licorice-like flavor that pairs beautifully with white fish.
• 2 Pats Melted Butter- Provides richness and a velvety mouthfeel, coating the fish and vegetables as they steam.
• 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juic- Adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the butter and balancing the mild flavor of the cod.
• 1 Tablespoon Oil- Lightly coats the parchment and vegetables to prevent sticking and adds a touch of richness.
• 1 Tablespoon Salt- Essential for enhancing the natural sweetness of the fish and vegetables.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper- Adds gentle spice and depth to balance the delicate flavors of the dish.

How To Make Fish En Papillote

1. Make the sauce and season the veggies. In a medium bowl combine melted butter, tarragon, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and lemon juice. Mix well until you get a creamy sauce. Add the julienned vegetables and mix well. Set aside.  
2. Prepare parchment. Cut two squares of parchment large enough to hold the fish and vegetables.
3. Add oil and season. Spray the fish fillets with oil and apply salt and pepper to both sides of the fillets. 
4. Layer ingredients. Lay one filet down on each parchment square. Top each fillet with half the vegetables. Pour any remaining sauce over the vegetables.   
5. Close the parchment packs. Fold over the parchment paper and crimp the sides to hold fish, veggies and sauce securely inside the packet. Place the packets inside the airfryer basket.   
6. Air fry and enjoy! Set your airfryer to 350F for 15 minutes. Remove each packet to a plate and open just before serving.   

Tips And Tricks

Making Air Fryer Fish en Papillote is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy tender, flavorful fish with minimal effort. To ensure your fish comes out perfectly moist, aromatic, and beautifully cooked every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

• Use Fresh or Properly Thawed Fish. Start with fresh or fully thawed fish fillets for even cooking. Frozen fish can release excess water and affect the texture.
• Cut Vegetables Evenly. Slice your vegetables thinly and evenly (julienne style) so they cook through at the same rate as the fish.
• Preheat the Air Fryer. Preheating helps the parchment packets puff up quickly, creating steam that locks in moisture and flavor.
• Don’t Overfill the Packet. Keep portions moderate. Use one fillet and a small handful of vegetables per packet to allow steam to circulate and cook everything evenly.

Variations

Here are some delicious and creative ways to customize your Air Fryer Fish en Papillote, each adding a unique twist to the delicate, flavorful base recipe:

• Mediterranean Style- Add cherry tomatoes, olives, garlic, and a sprinkle of oregano. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and crumbled feta cheese for a bright, savory twist.
• Asian-Inspired- Replace lemon juice with soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil. Add julienned ginger, green onions, and bok choy for a fragrant, umami-rich version.
• Spicy Cajun Fish- Season the fish with Cajun spice blend or smoked paprika, and add a few slices of jalapeño or bell pepper for a kick of heat and bold flavor.

What To Eat With Fish En Papillote

Air Fryer Fish en Papillote is a light, elegant dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a well-balanced and satisfying meal. Since the fish is delicately flavored with herbs, citrus, and vegetables, the best accompaniments are those that complement its freshness without overpowering it. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside your fish:

• Asparagus- Its tender, slightly crisp texture pairs perfectly with the buttery, lemony fish.
• Garlic Butter Rice- A simple side that absorbs the flavorful juices from the fish when you open the parchment packet.
• Herb Couscous or Quinoa- Light and fluffy grains flavored with fresh herbs, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon add a Mediterranean touch.

How Long Does It Last?

Fish en Papillote is best enjoyed fresh, right after cooking, when the fish is moist, tender, and infused with the aromatic steam from the herbs and vegetables.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to discard the parchment paper and let the fish cool completely before sealing it to prevent condensation.

When reheating, do so gently in the air fryer at 325°F for 5–6 minutes or in the oven to maintain its delicate texture.

Can You Freeze It?

While it’s technically safe to freeze cooked fish en papillote, freezing is not recommended because the vegetables can become mushy and the fish may lose its soft, flaky texture after thawing.

Want More Air Fryer Recipes?

• Air Fryer Zucchini
• Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
• French Toast
• Keto Shrimp Scampi
• Air Fryer Mushrooms
• Fish Nuggets

If you love this air fryer Fish En Papillote recipe as much as we do, make sure you share it with your friends on Facebook and Instagram so they can try it too! Don't forget to Pin it so you can make it again soon.