Air Fryer Cod | How to Cook Cod in the Air Fryer

Absolutely! Here’s a complete recipe for Air Fryer Cod along with a detailed Q&A to help you get perfectly flaky, flavorful cod every time — quick, healthy, and no mess!

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🐟 Air Fryer Cod | How to Cook Cod in the Air Fryer

Lightly seasoned, golden outside and tender inside — this air fryer cod is ideal for a fast weeknight dinner with minimal oil and maximum flavor.

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📝 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

• 2 cod fillets (6–8 oz each), thawed if frozen

• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• Optional: pinch of cayenne or lemon pepper

• Lemon wedges and chopped parsley (for garnish)

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🔧 Optional Coating (for a crispy crust)

• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp dried parsley or Italian seasoning

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🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cod

1. Pat the cod fillets very dry with paper towels (this helps them crisp).

2. Rub each fillet with olive oil or butter.

3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne.

4. Sprinkle seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the fish.

👉 If using breadcrumbs: Mix breadcrumbs + Parmesan + herbs in a separate bowl. Press mixture lightly onto top of each fillet for a crispy top crust.

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Step 2: Preheat Air Fryer

• Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

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Step 3: Air Fry the Cod

1. Spray air fryer basket with a bit of oil or line with perforated parchment paper (optional).

2. Place cod fillets in the basket in a single layer, not touching.

3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness.

   • Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches internal temp of 145°F (63°C).

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Step 4: Serve

• Serve hot with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, or over rice, salad, or roasted veggies.

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❓ Air Fryer Cod – Q&A

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Q: Can I use frozen cod?

A: Yes, but thaw it first for best texture. Pat it dry very well before seasoning. Cooking from frozen will result in too much water release.

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Q: How do I keep cod from sticking in the air fryer?

A:

• Spray the basket with oil spray.

• Use perforated parchment paper made for air fryers.

• Make sure the cod is dry and coated in oil before cooking.

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Q: How do I know when cod is done?

A: Cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Internal temperature should read 145°F (63°C) using a meat thermometer.

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Q: Can I make it crispy without breading?

A: Yes! The key is:

• Patting the fish dry

• Adding a little oil

• Cooking at 400°F for a slight golden crust

A light dusting of cornstarch or Parmesan also helps with crispiness.

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Q: What seasoning blends work well?

A:

• Lemon pepper

• Cajun or Creole seasoning

• Old Bay

• Italian herbs + garlic

• Chili-lime seasoning

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Q: Can I double the recipe?

A: Yes, but cook in batches. Don’t overcrowd the basket — airflow is key for crisp results.

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Q: What sides go well with air fryer cod?

A:

• Air fryer potato wedges or sweet potatoes

• Steamed or roasted broccoli, green beans, or asparagus

• Coleslaw or cucumber salad

• Rice pilaf or quinoa