Perfect! Air fryer cod is amazing because it comes out crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, without all the oil of deep-frying. Here’s a simple, foolproof recipe:
Ingredients (for 2–3 servings)
- 2 cod fillets (about 150–200 g each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder (optional)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crisp)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer
- 200°C (390°F) for 3–5 minutes.
- Prepare the cod
- Pat the fillets dry with paper towels.
- Brush or drizzle with olive oil.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic/onion powder.
- Add crispy coating (optional)
- Lightly press panko breadcrumbs onto the fillets for extra crunch. You can skip this for a simpler, natural cod texture.
- Air fry
- Place the fillets in the air fryer basket, skin-side down if skin is on, making sure they don’t touch.
- Cook at 200°C (390°F) for 8–12 minutes, depending on thickness.
- Check at 8 minutes; the fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Serve
- Squeeze fresh lemon over the top.
- Optional: garnish with chopped parsley or serve with a simple tartar sauce.
💡 Tips for extra crispy cod:
- Patting the fish dry is key—moisture = soggy crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; air needs to circulate for crispiness.
- Panko breadcrumbs give the best crunch in the air fryer compared to regular breadcrumbs.
If you want, I can also give a super flavorful version with a Parmesan-herb crust that makes it taste restaurant-level in the air fryer. It’s my personal favorite.
Do you want me to do that version too?