CRISPY AIR FRYER COD RECIPE

Why I Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Crispy Cod recipe is the perfect solution for anyone craving crispy fish without the mess and extra calories of deep frying. The air fryer gives the cod a beautifully crisp, golden coating while keeping the fish moist and flaky inside. I love how easy and fast this recipe is, making it ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a delicious, restaurant-quality fish dish at home in less than 30 minutes. Plus, you get all the satisfying crunch of fried fish without all the oil! The seasoning and crispy crust make it irresistible.

Air Fryer Crispy Cod

Crispy, golden, and flaky on the inside – this air fryer cod recipe is a healthy and quick alternative to deep frying. Perfect for anyone looking for a delicious seafood dish with less mess and fat!

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 10 mins

Total Time: 25 mins

Servings: 4

Calories: ~250 kcal per serving

Ingredients

• 4 Cod fillets (thawed and patted dry if previously frozen)
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• Olive oil spray (for the air fryer)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Coating Station

1. Pat dry the cod fillets with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the breading adhere better.
2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Whisk the egg until fully beaten.
   • Bowl 2: Place all-purpose flour in the second bowl.
   • Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in the third bowl.

Step 2: Coat the Cod Fillets

1. Start by dipping a cod fillet into the egg, ensuring it is fully coated.
2. Transfer the fillet to the flour bowl, covering it with a light layer of flour.
3. Dip the floured cod fillet into the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs coat the fish evenly. Transfer the fillet to a clean plate.
4. Repeat this process for all fillets.

Step 3: Air Fry the Cod

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.
2. Spray the air fryer basket or tray with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Arrange the coated cod fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray, leaving space between each fillet for the hot air to circulate.
4. Spray the tops of the fillets with more olive oil to help them crisp up.
5. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, carefully flip the fillets over and spray the other side with olive oil.
6. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the cod from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley (optional) for a burst of color and added freshness.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy with your favorite side dishes like steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple salad!

Notes

• Cod Fillets: You can use other firm white fish fillets, such as haddock or pollock, in place of cod for a similar result. Just ensure the fillets are of a similar size for even cooking.
• Crispy Coating: For extra crispiness, you can lightly toast the panko breadcrumbs in a dry skillet before coating the fish. This will give the breadcrumbs a golden color and extra crunch.
• Egg Wash Substitution: If you’re looking for a dairy-free or egg-free option, you can substitute the egg with buttermilk, dairy-free milk, or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). The texture will be slightly different, but it will still provide a great crust.
• Adjust Seasoning: The cayenne pepper is optional, depending on how much heat you like. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit it or substitute it with a pinch of black pepper or paprika.

Tips & Tricks

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before cooking to ensure an even cook and crispy results.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the crispiest cod, make sure to leave space between the fillets in the air fryer. This allows the hot air to circulate around the fish and cook it evenly.
• Check for Doneness: If you’re unsure if the cod is fully cooked, check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The fish should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), and it should flake easily with a fork.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes! If using frozen cod, ensure that you thaw the fillets completely and pat them dry before coating them. You may need to add an extra minute or two to the cook time.

Q: Can I make this recipe without breadcrumbs?
Yes! If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can substitute them with regular breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even almond meal for a gluten-free option.

Q: How do I reheat leftover air fryer cod?
To reheat leftover cod, place it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-4 minutes to crisp it up again. This will keep the fish from getting soggy.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked cod fillets for up to 1 month. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

This Air Fryer Crispy Cod recipe is a healthier alternative to deep-frying that still delivers all the crunch and flavor you crave. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy crispy fish without the extra oil. The air fryer method ensures the fish cooks evenly while retaining its moisture, making each bite tender and flaky. Whether you’re a fish lover or just looking for a healthier seafood option, this recipe is a must-try