Crispy Air Fryer Cod: Quick & Delicious Weeknight Dinner

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by Yumi Lee

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The aroma of Crispy Air Fryer Cod wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses with promise. The golden coating crackles delightfully at the first bite, revealing tender fish that melts in your mouth. tangy remoulade sauce

As you savor each piece, memories of family dinners come rushing back, where laughter mixed with the sizzle of cooking fish. This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a light summer gathering, promising a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.

[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] Crispy Air Fryer Cod is a breeze to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free. Its flaky texture and zesty seasoning create an unforgettable flavor experience. The stunning golden crust makes it visually appealing on any plate. Perfect for pairing with salads or in tacos for versatile serving options. [/info_box]

One time, I brought this dish to a potluck, and my friends nearly fought over the last piece!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Cod Fillets: Look for fresh or frozen fillets; both work great but ensure they are thawed if frozen.

  • Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances the crispiness; choose extra virgin for robust flavor.

  • Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a light and crunchy coating that standard breadcrumbs simply can’t match. refreshing carrot apple salad.

  • Lemon Zest: Adds brightness and freshness; use a microplane for fine zesting.

  • Garlic Powder: A must-have for depth; it infuses the fish with a savory touch without being overpowering.

  • Paprika: Choose smoked paprika for an added layer of smokiness that complements the cod beautifully.

  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all other flavors; adjust according to taste preferences.

  • Fresh Parsley: For garnish, this herb adds a pop of color and freshness to your finished dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Cod: Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat them dry using paper towels. This ensures better adhesion of the coating.

Season Generously: Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika evenly over both sides of the fillets. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb those flavors.

Coat with Panko Mixture: In one bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and lemon zest. Dip each fillet into olive oil before rolling it in the mixture until fully coated. For more inspiration, check out this Mediterranean salmon bowl recipe.

Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior.

Air Fry Until Golden Brown: Place the coated cod fillets into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and flakey.

Garnish and Serve!: Once cooked, carefully remove the cod from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Cooking crispy air fryer cod is quick and easy; the air fryer locks in moisture while creating a perfectly crisp exterior. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides, making it a versatile choice for any meal. The aroma of fresh fish wafting through the kitchen is simply irresistible. [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by seasoning the cod fillets, then preheat your air fryer to 400°F for optimal crispiness. Place the coated fillets in a single layer in the basket and cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through ensures even cooking.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Experiment with spice blends or marinades to elevate your crispy air fryer cod. Consider adding lemon zest for brightness or a dash of smoked paprika for depth. crispy baked eggplant parmesan Fresh herbs like parsley add a lovely finish too!

Storing & Reheating

To store, place leftover crispy air fryer cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to regain that crispy texture. For more inspiration, check out this Cajun seafood pot pie recipe recipe.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] For perfect crispy air fryer cod, ensure the fillets are dry before seasoning; moisture can prevent crispiness. Consider using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Always check internal temperature; fish should reach 145°F to ensure it’s perfectly cooked. [/info_box]

Cooking crispy air fryer cod reminds me of my first dinner party where my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. Their compliments made me feel like a culinary superstar!

FAQs

FAQ

How do I get my cod extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for an unbeatable crunch.

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed and pat it dry before cooking.

What sides pair well with crispy air fryer cod?

Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complement this dish beautifully and balance flavors. hearty Italian pot roast.

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Crispy Air Fryer Cod


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  • Author: Yumi Lee
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Crispy Air Fryer Cod is a delectable dish that combines a light, crunchy coating with tender, flaky fish. Its golden exterior crackles delightfully with each bite, transporting you to sun-soaked family dinners filled with laughter. Perfect for weeknight meals or summer gatherings, this easy-to-prepare recipe promises a flavor explosion that will leave everyone craving more. Serve it alongside salads or in tacos for versatile meal options.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound cod fillets (fresh or fully thawed if frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Rinse cod fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Season both sides of the fillets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika; let sit for 10 minutes.
  4. In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and lemon zest. Dip each fillet in olive oil, then coat them in the panko mixture.
  5. Place the coated fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and flaky.
  6. Carefully remove from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 fillet (approximately 113g)
  • Calories: 230
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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