Cod n Chips in air fryer

🐟 Introduction: Classic Comfort Food, Reinvented with an Air Fryer

There’s something timeless and universally beloved about the dish known as “Cod ‘n’ Chips.” Whether you’re strolling through a coastal town in England or craving a hearty, satisfying meal at home, fish and chips always seem to hit the spot. Traditionally deep-fried and indulgent, this comfort food classic is synonymous with flaky cod wrapped in a golden, crispy batter, paired with thick, hot chips — a British culinary icon that has traveled the world.

But what if you could enjoy this crispy delight without the excessive oil, the lingering fried smell, or the cleanup nightmare? That’s where the air fryer comes in — an appliance that has revolutionized home cooking by creating crispy textures with minimal oil and maximum convenience. Now, we bring you an irresistible version of Homemade Cod ‘n’ Chips in the Air Fryer — crispy, tender, healthier, and just as indulgent.

This recipe reimagines the classic British dish using the power of circulating hot air to cook the fish and chips to perfection. We’ll guide you step-by-step through prepping the cod, seasoning the chips, and creating that golden crunch you crave — all without needing a deep fryer. Whether you’re cooking for the family, hosting friends, or simply indulging in your favorite comfort food, this air fryer cod and chips recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Let’s dive into the art of making restaurant-quality cod and chips — air-fried to perfection — from the comfort of your home.

🍽️ The Recipe: Homemade Cod ‘n’ Chips in the Air Fryer

🧾 Ingredients

For the Cod:

• 4 boneless cod fillets (about 150-180g each)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crispiness)

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or cooking spray)

For the Chips:

• 3-4 large russet or Maris Piper potatoes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ½ teaspoon sea salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• Malt vinegar (for serving, optional)

• Lemon wedges (for garnish)

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

🥔 Step 1: Preparing the Chips

1. Wash and Peel (Optional): Wash the potatoes thoroughly. You may peel them if you prefer skinless chips, but leaving the skin on adds flavor and fiber.

2. Slice Into Chips: Cut the potatoes lengthwise into thick chips — about 1–1.5 cm wide.

3. Soak the Chips: Soak the chips in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This is the secret to making chips crispy in the air fryer.

4. Dry Thoroughly: Drain and pat the chips dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.

5. Season: In a large mixing bowl, toss the chips with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Ensure they are evenly coated.

6. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for 3–5 minutes.

7. Cook the Chips: Place the chips in the air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary). Air fry at 200°C (392°F) for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through. Continue for another 5–10 minutes depending on thickness and desired crispness.

🐟 Step 2: Preparing the Cod

1. Dry the Cod Fillets: Use paper towels to gently blot the cod fillets dry. This helps the coating stick better.

2. Season the Fish: Lightly season both sides of each cod fillet with salt and pepper.

3. Prepare the Dredging Stations:

   • Bowl 1: All-purpose flour

   • Bowl 2: Egg and milk whisked together

   • Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with paprika and garlic powder

4. Coat the Fish:

   • First, dredge each fillet in flour (shake off excess).

   • Next, dip into the egg mixture.

   • Finally, coat thoroughly in seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

5. Spray with Oil: Lightly spray each fillet with olive oil or brush on a bit of oil. This helps to achieve a golden crust in the air fryer.

🔥 Step 3: Cooking the Cod in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat Air Fryer: If not already done, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F).

2. Arrange in Basket: Place the breaded cod fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd — air needs to circulate.

3. Cook Time: Air fry at 200°C (392°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fish.

4. Check Doneness:

   • Internal temperature should reach 63°C (145°F).

   • The crust should be golden and crisp, and the inside flaky and opaque.

🍋 Step 4: Serving Your Cod ‘n’ Chips

1. Plate Up: Arrange your hot chips on a plate and top with a freshly air-fried cod fillet.

2. Garnish: Add a wedge of lemon for squeezing, and optionally a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

3. Classic Condiments:

   • Malt vinegar for the chips

   • Tartar sauce or aioli for the fish

   • Ketchup or curry sauce if you’re going British-style

🔁 Variations & Tips

🌿 Flavor Boosts:

• Add grated Parmesan to the breadcrumbs for cheesy crunch.

• Mix lemon zest into the breadcrumb coating for a citrusy touch.

• Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.

🍟 Chip Upgrades:

• Try sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.

• Soak potato slices in vinegar before air-frying for “salt & vinegar” flavor.

• Make wedges instead of chips for a rustic style.

🧊 Frozen Cod Option:

• Use frozen breaded cod fillets from the store.

• Air fry at 200°C (392°F) for 12–15 minutes, flipping once.

⏲️ Make-Ahead:

• Bread the cod and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance.

• Soak and dry the chips, then refrigerate until ready to cook.

🧠 Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

🧼 Clean-Up and Storage

• Clean-Up Tip: Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheat in Air Fryer: Reheat at 180°C (356°F) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.

🏁 Conclusion: A Healthy Take on a British Classic

Creating Homemade Cod ‘n’ Chips in the Air Fryer is more than just cooking — it’s a delicious experience that combines nostalgia with modern efficiency. Thanks to the air fryer, you can recreate the iconic fish-and-chip shop feel at home with less oil, less mess, and no compromise on taste.

This dish proves that with a few ingredients and some clever air fryer technique, you can bring together flaky cod with a crispy coating and perfectly golden chips — all with a fraction of the calories of the traditional deep-fried version. It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re cooking on a Friday night, planning a cozy dinner, or looking for a healthier alternative to takeout, this air fryer cod and chips recipe has you covered. Pair it with a fresh salad or some mushy peas, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s comforting, crunchy, and utterly delicious.

So grab your air fryer, your potatoes, and your cod — and get cooking! 🍽️