This air fryer cod recipe is your ticket to a perfectly flaky, restaurant-worthy fish dinner in just 15 minutes. Each tender filet packs an impressive 36g of lean protein while keeping calories sensible at 244 per serving. The air fryer works its magic to create a light, crispy exterior while maintaining the cod’s delicate, moist center – no deep frying needed. Whether you’re following a healthy eating plan or simply love seafood, this foolproof method delivers exceptional results every time.
Ingredients for Perfect Air Fryer Cod
- Cod Filets: 2 pieces, patted dry for best results
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, helps achieve golden exterior
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon, adds savory flavor
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, enhances overall taste
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground preferred
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon, for garnishing
- Lemon: 1 whole, cut into wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prep the Fish: Place cod filets on a plate and brush with olive oil until evenly coated
- Season: Mix garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl, then sprinkle generously on both sides
- Arrange: Place seasoned filets in air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap
- Air Fry: Cook at 380°F for 8-10 minutes until fish reaches 145°F internal temperature
- Garnish: Top with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a bright finish
Air Fryer Tips
Hey there! Air frying cod is super easy, but here’s a friendly tip: don’t overcrowd your basket! When the fish has enough space around it, you’ll get that lovely crispy outside while keeping the inside perfectly flaky. If your air fryer’s on the smaller side, it’s totally fine to cook in batches – better to take a few extra minutes than to end up with unevenly cooked fish.
Quick Substitutions
No cod? No problem! This recipe works great with other white fish like haddock, pollock, or halibut. You can switch up the seasonings too – try Italian herbs, cajun seasoning, or even just plain old lemon pepper. If you’re out of olive oil, any light cooking oil will do just fine. Just keep the cooking time similar and watch for that perfect flaky finish!
Serving Ideas
This air fryer cod loves good company! Try it with roasted veggies, a fresh green salad, or some fluffy rice. Want to make it extra special? Add a quick tartar sauce on the side, or whip up a light garlic butter to drizzle on top. The lemon wedges aren’t just for show – a good squeeze adds such a bright, fresh pop of flavor!
Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Pop your cooked cod in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, warm it gently in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F. The fish might be a tiny bit less moist than when fresh, but it’ll still be tasty! Just try not to microwave it – that can make it a bit rubbery.
Air Fryer Cod
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 2 cod filets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley for serving
- 1 lemon sliced into wedges for serving
Instructions
- Place the cod filets on a plate. Cover with olive oil.
- Place the garlic powder, salt, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Mix to combine.
- Sprinkle both sides of the cod with the spice mixture.
- Place the cod filets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook the cod in separate batches.
- Air fry at 380°F/190°C for 8-10 minutes. The cod should reach an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C.
- Serve with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
