Crispy Air Fryer Cod Recipe
Introduction
This air fryer cod is your new favorite dish if you enjoy crispy, restaurant-style fish without deep-frying. Cod is a delicate, flaky white fish that cooks flawlessly in an air fryer, retaining its delicious, moist interior while turning golden brown on the outside. In less than 25 minutes, you can have a tasty and nutritious seafood feast with a straightforward mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and a touch of lemon.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Ingredients
2 cod fillets (about 4–6 oz each), fresh or thawed
1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter)
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional but adds flavor)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried parsley (or dill)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
Prepare the coating
In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley.
Brush the fish
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Lightly brush each fillet with olive oil on both sides.
Coat the cod
Press each fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
Air fry the cod
Place the coated fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F (63°C) internal temperature.
Serve
Transfer to a plate and serve immediately with lemon wedges or a light tartar sauce.
Tips
For extra crispiness, lightly spray the coated fillets with cooking spray before air frying.
Don’t overcrowd the basket — air circulation is key for a crunchy coating.
You can use other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or pollock.
Health Benefits
High in Protein: Cod is lean and rich in essential amino acids.
Heart-Friendly: Low in fat and contains omega-3s for heart and brain health.
Low-Calorie Option: Ideal for those managing calories without sacrificing flavor.
Precautions
Avoid overcooking — cod dries out quickly.
If using frozen fillets, thaw completely and pat dry to prevent sogginess.
Be cautious with salt if you’re watching sodium intake.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Cod recipe gives you all the satisfaction of fried fish without the mess or extra oil. It’s crisp, flavorful, and ready in minutes — perfect for a weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option. Pair it with roasted veggies or a fresh lemon-herb salad for a complete, balanced plate.For a full, well-balanced dish, serve it with roasted vegetables or a crisp lemon-herb salad.