Air Fryer Pecan Crusted Trout Recipe | Easy & Healthy Fish Dish

The Air Fryer Pecan Crusted Trout Recipe offers a delicious and healthier way to enjoy fish. This simple dish combines the mild flavor of trout with a crunchy, nutty pecan coating that’s perfectly crisped in the air fryer. To prepare, first season the trout fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a separate bowl, mix crushed pecans, breadcrumbs, and a touch of Parmesan cheese. Dip the trout fillets into a beaten egg, then coat them with the pecan mixture. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook the fillets for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even golden crust. The result is a flaky, flavorful fish with a satisfying crunch, all without the need for deep frying. This Air Fryer Pecan Crusted Trout Recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a tasty and nutritious alternative to traditional fried fish.

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Air Fryer Pecan Crusted Trout Recipe | Easy & Healthy Fish Dish

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthier way to prepare trout, the Air Fryer Pecan Crusted Trout recipe is an absolute game-changer! Combining the rich, tender flavors of trout with the nutty, crunchy texture of pecans, this dish offers a unique twist on a classic fish preparation. The air fryer’s ability to crisp the crust without needing much oil results in a lighter, yet still indulgent, version of a favorite seafood meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight or a dish to impress guests, this pecan-crusted trout will hit all the right notes.

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Pecan-crusted fish, especially when cooked in the air fryer, is perfect for those who want a healthier take on fried fish. This method uses less oil while maintaining a crispy texture that rivals traditional deep frying. The combination of the trout’s delicate flavor with the toasty, slightly sweet crunch of pecans creates a satisfying meal that is both nutritious and easy to prepare.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 250 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size)
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 1g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Vitamin D: 10% of Daily Value
• Calcium: 6% of Daily Value
• Iron: 8% of Daily Value

(Note: The nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Active Time: 15 minutes
Resting Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisines: American, Southern, Healthy

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Shallow dish or plate (for dredging)
• Bowl (for egg wash)
• Plate for serving
• Tongs or spatula (for flipping)

Ingredients

• 4 trout fillets (fresh or thawed)
• 1/2 cup pecans, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crispiness)
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray (optional, for extra crispiness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Trout:
   Begin by preparing the trout fillets. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step ensures the crust will adhere better and the fish will crisp up in the air fryer. Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare the Pecan Crust:
   In a shallow dish, combine the chopped pecans, breadcrumbs (if using), Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon zest. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Dredge the Trout Fillets:
   Next, dip each trout fillet into the beaten egg, ensuring that both sides are fully coated. Then, transfer the fillet to the pecan mixture and press gently so that the crust adheres well. Make sure to coat both sides of the fillet with the pecan mixture for maximum flavor and crunch.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step ensures that the fish will cook evenly and crisply right from the start.
5. Cook the Trout:
   Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or use a non-stick cooking spray to prevent the fish from sticking. Place the pecan-crusted trout fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This will allow the air to circulate around the fillets, giving them an even, crispy texture. Air fry the trout for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides are golden brown. Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the fillets, so check for doneness (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C).
6. Serve:
   Once the trout is cooked to perfection, carefully remove the fillets from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Serve the trout immediately on a plate, garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for extra flavor.

Tips for Best Results:

• For an extra crispy crust, you can lightly spray the pecan-coated fish with cooking oil before air frying.
• If you prefer a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the coating mix.
• If you want a lighter crust, you can skip the breadcrumbs or use almond flour instead for a gluten-free alternative.
• For added flavor, drizzle a bit of honey or a squeeze of lemon juice on top of the finished trout before serving.

Variations

• Citrus Pecan Crusted Trout: Add more citrus zest (like orange or lime) to the crust for an additional citrusy kick.
• Spicy Pecan Crusted Trout: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the pecan mixture for a spicy twist.
• Herb-Infused Pecan Crust: Mix in dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the crust for more flavor depth.

Serving Suggestions
This air fryer pecan-crusted trout pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of quinoa for a balanced and healthy meal. If you’re in the mood for comfort food, mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries make an excellent choice. For a lighter option, a simple rice pilaf or steamed asparagus would complement the dish beautifully.

Why Choose the Air Fryer for This Recipe?
The air fryer is a fantastic tool for making healthier versions of traditionally deep-fried foods. It uses hot air circulation to cook food evenly while creating a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. In the case of this pecan-crusted trout, the air fryer delivers that perfect crunch, enhancing the nutty pecan crust, while keeping the fish moist and flaky on the inside. It’s a great option for anyone looking to cut down on added fats and calories without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Conclusion
The Air Fryer Pecan Crusted Trout is a simple yet flavorful recipe that elevates the classic fish dish with the addition of crunchy, toasted pecans. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who loves seafood but wants a healthier, lighter preparation. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family meal or a special dinner gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its easy prep and minimal cooking time, you’ll be able to enjoy a gourmet meal in just a fraction of the time it would take to make a traditionally fried fish. Enjoy the crispy goodness of pecan-crusted trout without the guilt!

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Ashley Doyle

I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.