Name: Crispy Air Fryer Cod Fish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 1.5 lbs total); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Cooking spray or olive oil spray; Lemon wedges and fresh parsley for serving

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Golden and flaky on the inside with a satisfyingly crisp coating on the outside, this crispy air fryer cod fish is everything I want in a fast, flavorful meal. It uses simple pantry ingredients, takes minimal effort, and skips the mess and extra calories of deep frying—making it perfect for a light weeknight dinner.

Crispy Air Fryer Cod Fish

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cod fillets (about 1.5 lbs total)

½ cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Lemon wedges and fresh parsley for serving

Directions

I start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels and lightly seasoning them with salt and pepper.

Then, I set up three separate bowls: one for flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the breadcrumb mixture (panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper).

I dip each fillet in the flour, then the egg, and finish with the breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the coating sticks well.

Next, I spray both sides of the coated cod with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the air fryer.

I preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes, then place the fillets in a single layer in the basket.

I cook them for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Once done, I serve them hot with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Calories: Approximately 230 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes switch up the seasonings in the breadcrumb mix—adding chili powder for heat or Italian herbs for a different flavor twist.

For a gluten-free option, I use gluten-free panko and flour.

If I don’t have cod, I substitute with haddock or tilapia, adjusting the cook time slightly depending on thickness.

I like serving it with homemade tartar sauce, spicy aioli, or over a simple salad for a low-carb meal.

Adding a bit of grated parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture gives it a rich, cheesy crunch.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftovers, I place the cooked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I use the air fryer again at 375°F for 3–5 minutes to bring back the crispiness. I avoid the microwave because it makes the coating soggy. Freezing isn’t ideal for already cooked fish, but I can prep the breaded fillets ahead and freeze them uncooked.

FAQs

What kind of fish can I use instead of cod?

I like using haddock, tilapia, or pollock if cod isn’t available. They have a similar texture and cook well in the air fryer.

Can I cook frozen cod in the air fryer?

Yes, but I thaw the cod completely and pat it dry before breading and air frying to make sure the coating sticks and crisps up properly.

How do I know when cod is fully cooked?

I check that it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should be opaque and juicy inside.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely—this recipe is already dairy-free as long as I use non-dairy cooking spray and double-check the breadcrumbs and flour.

What sides go well with crispy air fryer cod?

I like serving it with roasted veggies, coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad. It also pairs nicely with rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

This crispy air fryer cod fish is a go-to recipe when I want something fast, healthy, and satisfying. It delivers on texture, taste, and ease—making it a favorite in my weeknight rotation. Whether I’m keeping it simple or dressing it up, it always hits the spot.

📖 Recipe:

Crispy Air Fryer Cod Fish

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Golden and flaky on the inside with a crisp, flavorful coating, this air fryer cod fish is a healthy, quick alternative to deep-fried fish using simple pantry ingredients.

Instructions

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and lightly season with salt and pepper.
Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dip each cod fillet in the flour, then the egg, and finally coat with the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Spray both sides of the coated cod with cooking spray or olive oil spray.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
Place the cod fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Serve hot with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.