Air fryer cod is a light, flaky, and delicious seafood dish that’s quick to prepare and healthier than traditional fried fish. With minimal oil, you still get that golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels both simple and special.

Ingredients

• 2 fresh or thawed cod fillets (150–200 g each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Optional for a crispy coating:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

How To Make Air Fryer Cod

1. Preheat Air Fryer – Set to 200°C (390°F) for 3–4 minutes.
2. Prepare Cod – Pat fillets dry with paper towels. Brush lightly with olive oil or butter. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • If using the crispy coating, dip each fillet into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently.
3. Cook – Place cod in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Check Doneness – Fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).
5. Serve – Plate with fresh lemon wedges and parsley for extra flavour.

You Must Know

• Don’t Overcrowd – Give the cod space so it crisps evenly.
• Fresh vs Frozen – Fresh cod cooks more evenly, but frozen works with 2–3 extra minutes.
• Oil is Key – A light coat of oil ensures a golden crust without drying the fish.
• Season Simply – Cod has a delicate flavour, so avoid overpowering spices.

Topping Variations

• Herb Butter – Mix softened butter with dill, parsley, and garlic; melt over hot cod.
• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the seasoning.
• Parmesan Crust – Increase the Parmesan for a cheesy, crisp finish.
• Mediterranean Style – Top with olives, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil.
• Asian Glaze – Brush with soy sauce, ginger, and honey for a sweet-savory twist.

Make It a Meal

• Serve with air fryer chips or sweet potato fries for a healthier fish & chips.
• Pair with steamed veggies like broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
• Add rice pilaf, couscous, or quinoa for a filling dinner.
• A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly.

Pro Tips

• Always pat fish dry before seasoning to avoid sogginess.
• Line the basket with parchment paper for easy cleanup (but make sure it’s perforated for airflow).
• Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking; cod is done at 63°C (145°F).
• For extra crispiness, spray a light mist of cooking spray on the fish before cooking.
• Let cod rest for 1–2 minutes before serving to keep juices locked in.

Recipe FAQs

Can I cook cod straight from frozen in the air fryer?
Yes, just increase the cooking time by 2–3 minutes and check for doneness with a fork or thermometer.

What other fish can I use with this recipe?
Haddock, tilapia, pollock, and halibut work well with the same method.

How do I prevent cod from sticking to the basket?
Brush or spray the basket with a little oil, or use perforated parchment paper.

Is air fryer cod healthy?
Yes! It’s high in protein, low in fat, and uses minimal oil compared to deep frying.

What sauces go best with air fryer cod?
Tartar sauce, garlic aioli, lemon dill yoghurt sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.

Air Fryer Cod

My air fryer cod recipe is so easy that you just mix it with seasonings and air fry!

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 13 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 pound cod fillets
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice bottled or fresh
• 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350 °F and pat each side of the cod fillets with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Combine the olive oil and the lemon juice in a small bowl. Brush each side of the cod fillets with the olive oil. Brush the inside of the air fryer basket with the remaining oil to help with sticking (optional).
3. In a small dish, mix the paprika, salt, garlic powder, and pepper and rub the seasonings on each side of the fish.
4. Place the cod in the air fryer basket or tray and cook for 8 minutes, until a meat thermometer reaches 145 °F and the fish easily flakes.

Notes

• Cook frozen cod at 350 degrees for 4 minutes, add the oil and seasonings, then air fry again at 370 degrees for about 10 minutes.
• Reheat leftovers in a preheated air fryer at 350 degrees for about 5 minutes.