Crispy Air Fryer Cod (Print version)
Golden panko-crusted cod cooked in the air fryer until crisp outside and tender inside, ready in about 25 minutes.
# Ingredients:
For the cod
01 -
1 lb (450 g) cod fillets, thawed if frozen
02 -
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
03 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
04 -
Olive oil spray or avocado oil spray
For the breading
05 -
1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
06 -
2 large eggs, beaten
07 -
1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs
08 -
1/3 cup (30 g) finely grated parmesan cheese
09 -
2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
10 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
11 -
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
12 -
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
For serving
13 -
Lemon wedges
14 -
Tartar sauce or creamy dill sauce, optional
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes. Lightly coat the basket with oil spray.
02 -
Pat the cod very dry with paper towels. Cut into 4 even portions if needed, then season both sides with salt and black pepper.
03 -
Place the flour in one shallow bowl. Place the beaten eggs in a second bowl. In a third bowl, mix panko, parmesan, Old Bay, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne if using.
04 -
Coat each cod piece lightly in flour and shake off the excess. Dip into egg, then press into the panko mixture until evenly coated on all sides.
05 -
Arrange the breaded cod in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Spray the tops with oil and air fry for 8 minutes.
06 -
Flip gently with a thin spatula. Air fry 4-6 minutes more, until the crust is golden and the thickest part of the fish reaches 145°F.
07 -
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and tartar sauce or dill sauce if desired.
# Good to know:
01 -
Best served right after cooking while the panko is crisp.
02 -
Thicker cod loin pieces may need 1-2 extra minutes.
03 -
Use an instant-read thermometer for the most reliable doneness check.