Cod in Air Fryer

Crispy Air Fryer Cod

This Air Fryer Cod is quick, tender, flaky, and lightly crisp on the outside. The fish is coated with a simple garlic-paprika seasoning and cooks in minutes, making it an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets, about 5–6 oz (140–170 g) each
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest, optional
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the cod.
   Pat the cod fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick and encourages better browning.
2. Season the fish.
   Place the cod in a bowl or on a plate. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.

   In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.

   Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the fillets.

3. Preheat the air fryer.
   Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes, if your model requires preheating.
4. Arrange the cod.
   Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the cod fillets in a single layer, leaving space between them for air circulation.
5. Air fry.
   Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

   There’s usually no need to flip the fish, but you can carefully turn it halfway through cooking if desired.

6. Check for doneness.
   The cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.
7. Finish and serve.
   Remove the cod from the air fryer and let it rest for 1–2 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with parsley.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cod

• Pat the fish dry before seasoning for better browning.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
• Thicker fillets may need a few extra minutes.
• Check the fish early because cod can dry out if overcooked.
• Fresh or thawed frozen cod both work, but completely thaw frozen fillets first for the most even cooking.
• A light coating of olive oil helps the seasoning brown without making the fish greasy.

Crispy Parmesan Version

For a crunchier coating, combine:

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Pinch of salt and pepper

Brush the cod with olive oil, press the Parmesan-panko mixture onto the top, and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 9–12 minutes, until golden and cooked through.

Lemon Butter Finish

For an easy sauce, melt:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Drizzle the warm lemon butter over the cooked cod just before serving.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Cod

Try pairing it with:

• Air-fried potatoes
• Steamed broccoli
• Roasted asparagus
• Green beans
• Rice pilaf
• Coleslaw
• Cucumber salad
• Mixed green salad
• Lemon wedges and tartar sauce

For a light meal, serve the cod with a fresh salad and roasted vegetables.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes, just until warmed through. Avoid overheating, as cod can become dry.

Makes

4 servings

For the best result, serve the cod immediately with plenty of fresh lemon. The finished fish should be flaky and moist inside with lightly golden, flavorful edges.