Description
This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod offers a deliciously crunchy exterior paired with tender, flaky fish inside. Coated with a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and aromatic spices, this easy-to-make cod recipe uses the air fryer to achieve a crisp texture without excess oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Ready in just 22 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish to serve guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 2 cod fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)
Crust Mixture
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other
- Olive oil spray, for coating
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for the cod fillets to get a crispy crust.
- Make the Coating: In a medium mixing bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute all spices evenly throughout the breadcrumb mixture.
- Prepare Cod Fillets: Lightly spray each cod fillet with olive oil spray to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere. Then coat each fillet generously with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing it on gently so it sticks well to the surface.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Place the coated cod fillets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness on both sides.
- Serve: Once the fillets are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F), carefully remove them from the air fryer. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp crust at its best.
Notes
- For best results, make sure cod fillets are patted dry before coating.
- If you do not have olive oil spray, lightly brush fillets with olive oil instead.
- Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets and the air fryer model.
- To keep the crust extra crispy, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
