Easy and Delicious Air Fryer Cod

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Crispy on the outside, flaky and tender on the inside, this Air Fryer Cod is the perfect go-to when you’re craving something light, flavorful, and fast. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, this recipe transforms simple cod fillets into a golden, savory delight in under 20 minutes.

Using the air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time but also gives the fish a beautifully crisp coating without needing excess oil. It’s a healthier twist on traditional fried fish, and the best part? You don’t have to deal with a greasy stovetop cleanup. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even impressing guests with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cod

Air fryer cod hits all the marks: it’s easy, healthy, and incredibly tasty. The recipe requires minimal ingredients, most of which you likely already have on hand. It cooks up so fast, making it ideal when you’re in a rush or just don’t feel like turning on the oven. Plus, the texture is unbeatable. That crispy crust paired with flaky fish inside is just irresistible.

This recipe is also super versatile. You can change up the seasoning to fit your mood—spicy Cajun one night, lemon herb the next. Serve it over salad, tuck it into tacos, or enjoy it with your favorite dipping sauce.

What Kind of Cod Should I Use?

For this air fryer recipe, you can use either fresh or frozen cod. If using frozen, be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry with paper towels before seasoning. Look for thick fillets so they stay juicy inside while getting crispy on the outside. Atlantic or Pacific cod both work well. If you can find wild-caught, that’s always a great choice for quality and flavor.

Ingredients for the Air Fryer Cod

To make this crispy Air Fryer Cod, you only need a handful of basic ingredients. Each plays an important role in achieving that golden crunch and bold flavor.

• Cod fillets
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Cod fillets are the star of the show, offering a mild, flaky base that pairs well with spices and breading. Olive oil helps the coating crisp up nicely without needing deep-frying. Garlic powder and paprika add warmth and flavor depth, while salt and black pepper bring balance. Panko breadcrumbs create the irresistibly crispy crust we all love. And a final squeeze of lemon brightens everything up beautifully.

How To Make the Air Fryer Cod

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. While it heats, pat your cod fillets dry using paper towels. This helps the seasonings and breadcrumbs stick better and ensures the fish gets nice and crispy.

Step 2: Season and Coat

Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over both sides of the cod. Then press each fillet into a shallow bowl of panko breadcrumbs, coating all sides.

Step 3: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

Place the breaded fillets into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Thicker fillets may need a minute or two more.

Step 4: Serve Hot with Lemon

Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy as-is or pair with your favorite sides for a full meal.

How to Serve and Store Air Fryer Cod

This Air Fryer Cod serves 2 to 3 people depending on the portion size and sides. It’s best served hot right after cooking to enjoy that crispy crust. Pair it with a creamy slaw, roasted vegetables, or even tucked into warm tortillas for fish tacos.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fillets back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. This helps restore that lovely crunch better than microwaving.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Cod?

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

A rich, buttery mash complements the lightness of the cod beautifully.

Roasted Asparagus and Potatoes

This veggie duo is simple, healthy, and roasts up quickly while the cod cooks.

Easy Homemade Naan Bread

Perfect for scooping up flaky bites or turning your cod into a sandwich wrap.

Sweet Alabama Pecan Bread

A slightly sweet side dish to contrast the savory crunch of the fish.

Southern Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers

Their soft center and sweet-savory flavor go surprisingly well with crispy cod.

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese

Creamy and comforting, it rounds out the meal with indulgence.

Creamy Broccoli Pasta

The bold garlic and cheese flavor pairs well with the mild cod.

Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

A cozy, cheesy side that makes this dish feel like home.

Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this crispy cod, here are more hearty seafood dishes you need to try next:

• Try the rich and flavorful Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole for a comforting seafood classic.
• Don’t miss the creamy, garlicky Marry Me Shrimp Pasta for a weeknight dinner that feels gourmet.
• Looking for a lighter option? The Mediterranean Salmon Patties are perfect for meal prep or sandwiches.
• Try Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage Broccoli for a one-pan meal packed with bold flavor.
• For a zesty twist, the Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon delivers creamy richness with every bite.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood or air fryer board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try adding extra herbs or a spicy kick? Did you serve it as tacos or with a salad?

I love hearing your creative twists and serving ideas. Feel free to ask questions too—we’re all here to make cooking easier and more delicious.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and desserts on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next go-to recipe!

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