Name: Air Fryer Cod: 17-Minute Crispy Delight for Dinner
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each); 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for extra crispiness); 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; Lemon wedges, for serving; Cooking spray

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Air Fryer Cod has transformed my weeknight dinners. This recipe is not just easy but incredibly delicious, offering a crispy texture and buttery flavor that will impress anyone at the table. Perfectly cooked in an air fryer, this healthy dish is ready in just 17 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy nights. If you’re looking for a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying, this recipe is for you!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cod

This Air Fryer Cod Recipe is packed with benefits that make it a must-try:

Quick and easy to prepare for a Quick Air Fryer Cod Meal.
Low-carb and gluten-free, it fits various dietary needs.
Flaky and tender fish that pairs well with various sides.
The air fryer ensures a crispy texture without excess oil.
Perfect for meal prep, making it a great option for busy weeks.
Can easily be customized with different seasonings, like the Best Air Fryer Cod Seasoning.
Ideal for beginners wanting to learn How to Cook Cod in Air Fryer.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Cod

Gather these items:

4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for extra crispiness)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon wedges, for serving
Cooking spray

How to Make Air Fryer Cod Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic.
Step 3: Stir in panko breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix well.
Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Step 5: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Step 6: Place cod fillets into the basket, leaving space between each.
Step 7: Spoon the breadcrumb mixture over each fillet and press down lightly.
Step 8: Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden and fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 9: Remove carefully with a spatula.
Step 10: Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges. Serve hot.

Air Fryer Cod: 17-Minute Crispy Delight for Dinner - Air Fryer Cod - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Cod

Keep these in mind:

Great for meal prep.
Perfect for weeknight meals.
Healthy snack option.
Gluten-free dinner idea.
For extra flavor, consider adding lemon zest to your breadcrumb mixture.
Ensure the cod fillets are not overcrowded in the basket for even cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Cod

Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Pair with a fresh salad for a light and healthy option.
Try it in Air Fryer Cod Fish Tacos for a fun twist!

How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Cod

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore that crispy texture. This makes it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Cod

What’s the secret to perfect Air Fryer Cod?

The secret lies in ensuring your cod fillets are well-seasoned and patting them dry before cooking. This helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside flaky and moist.

Can I make Air Fryer Cod ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the fillets and breadcrumb mixture ahead of time. Just assemble them before cooking and enjoy a quick meal without much hassle.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Air Fryer Cod?

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Also, ensure your cod is properly dried to help the breadcrumbs stick and crisp up nicely.

Variations of Air Fryer Cod You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to your breadcrumb mixture.
Try Air Fryer Cod with Garlic Butter by mixing melted garlic butter into the breadcrumbs.
Make a tropical version with pineapple salsa on top.
Use different fish, like tilapia or haddock, for variety.