I bought Cod in ALDI and Tried Cod in Air Fryer, Guys!! I think I finally got this recipe down to perfection!

 

Crispy Air Fryer Cod

Forget the guesswork! This Air Fryer Cod recipe is the foolproof way to get perfectly flaky, tender fish with a deliciously seasoned, crispy crust every single time. It’s a quick, healthy, and incredibly versatile weeknight dinner that will become an instant staple in your kitchen.

Yields: 2-4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each), patted dry

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika is excellent here)

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon lemon zest (highly recommended for brightness)

For Serving:

• Juice of ½ a lemon

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Lemon wedges

• Tartar sauce, aioli, or remoulade for dipping

Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. A hot start is the secret to a crispy exterior.

2. Season the Fish

• Ensure the cod fillets are thoroughly patted dry with paper towels. This is a non-negotiable step for crispiness!

• In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.

• Lightly brush both sides of each fillet with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over all sides, pressing gently to help it adhere.

3. Air Fry to Perfection

• Place the seasoned cod fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching to allow for proper air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary.

• For extra crispness, you can give the tops a very light spritz of cooking spray.

• Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The cod is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork.

4. Serve Immediately

• Transfer the cod to a plate, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and garnish with chopped parsley.

• Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

Why This Recipe Works

• The Perfect Texture: Patting the fish completely dry prevents steaming and ensures the exterior becomes beautifully crispy.

• Balanced Seasoning: The blend of paprika, garlic, and lemon zest complements the mild, sweet flavor of the cod without overpowering it.

• Air Fryer Efficiency: The rapid, circulating air cooks the fish quickly and evenly, creating a "fried" texture with minimal oil.

Chef's Notes & Variations

• Don't Overcrowd: Giving the fillets space is crucial. Overcrowding will steam them, resulting in a soft exterior.

• Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to add other spices like a pinch of cayenne for heat, Old Bay seasoning for a classic seafood flavor, or dried dill for an herby note.

• Perfect Pairings: Serve your crispy cod with:

  • For a Light Meal: A simple side salad, steamed green beans, or cilantro lime rice.

  • For a Comfort Meal: Classic french fries, coleslaw, or creamy mashed potatoes for a fish-and-chips experience.