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Crispy Air Fryer Cod Recipe

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4.4 from 10 reviews

This crispy air fryer cod recipe is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that delivers perfectly cooked, golden-brown fish with a flavorful seasoned breadcrumb crust. Using the air fryer allows for a healthier alternative to traditional frying, keeping the fish moist inside while crisping the exterior. It’s versatile enough to serve on its own, in tacos, or sandwiches, making it a family-friendly meal everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

Fish

  • 1 pound of cod

Breading

  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs

Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
  • 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F to ensure it’s hot and ready for cooking the cod evenly.
  2. Prepare the Cod. Pat the cod dry thoroughly with paper towels and set it aside on a cutting board. You can cut it into desired sizes or leave the fillets whole.
  3. Prepare Breading Stations. Set out three shallow bowls: in the first, whisk the eggs; in the second, place the flour; in the third, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Old Bay seasoning, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, stirring well.
  4. Bread the Cod. Dip each piece of cod first into the flour, coating it lightly; then dip it into the whisked eggs, ensuring both sides are wet; finally, press the cod firmly on both sides into the breadcrumb mixture to thoroughly coat.
  5. Air Fry the Cod. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray. Place the breaded cod pieces in the basket in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed. Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes, then gently flip each piece and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the crust is golden and crispy.
  6. Serve and Garnish. Optionally sprinkle additional Old Bay or Italian seasoning on the cod after cooking for extra flavor. Serve the crispy cod on its own, in tacos, or on sandwiches as desired.

Notes

  • You can substitute regular breadcrumbs for panko if preferred.
  • Adding 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture boosts flavor and richness.
  • Old Bay seasoning provides a distinctive seafood-friendly spice but can be adjusted to taste.
  • Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the cod and the total weight; the times given are for approximately 1 pound of cod.