This quick and easy Air Fryer Cod recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. The air fryer creates a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the fish tender and flaky inside. Additionally, it’s a great alternative to deep-frying, offering a lighter meal without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients for the easy Air Fryer Cod recipe
- 4 cod fillets (about 150g each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions to make easy Air Fryer Cod recipe
Step 1: Prep the Cod
Dry the Fish: First, pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step ensures better seasoning adherence and helps the fish crisp up nicely.
Season: Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the fillets. Next, sprinkle them with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently rub the seasonings into the fish to create an even coating.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Meanwhile, set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and preheat it for about 3 minutes. Preheating promotes even cooking and helps achieve a crispy texture.
Step 3: Air Fry the Cod
Arrange the Fillets: Once the air fryer is preheated, lay the seasoned cod fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. If necessary, cook in batches to allow enough space for each piece to crisp up.
Cook: Air fry the cod for 8-10 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway through to ensure even cooking. The cod should turn golden and crispy on the outside, while the inside remains tender and flaky. The fish is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) or when it easily flakes with a fork.
Step 4: Serve
After cooking, remove the cod from the air fryer and serve it immediately with lemon wedges for a burst of flavor. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley. This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or your favorite grains.
Tips for easy Air Fryer Cod recipe
- Avoid Overcrowding: To achieve the best results, lay the fillets in a single layer. If your air fryer is small, cooking in batches helps maintain crispiness.
- Flip Halfway: Turning the cod halfway through the cooking process helps both sides crisp up evenly.
- Monitor Cooking: Cod is done once it easily flakes with a fork. Keep a close watch to avoid overcooking, which can cause it to dry out.
FAQs about easy Air Fryer Cod recipe
How do I know when the cod is ready and cooked?
Cod is done when its internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F), and the flesh easily flakes apart with a fork.
Can I cook frozen cod in the air fryer?
Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets; however, you’ll need to increase the cooking time slightly. For the best results, thaw the fillets beforehand and pat them dry before seasoning.
What side dishes go well with cod?
Air fryer cod pairs wonderfully with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a refreshing salad.
