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Crispy Air Fryer Cod Fish Recipe Easy 5-Step Tender Flaky Fish

crispy air fryer cod fish - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy, tender, flaky cod fish made in the air fryer with a light, crunchy coating. Perfect for family dinners and healthier than traditional frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cod fish fillets (46 oz / 113170 g each), fresh or thawed frozen
  • ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free flour)
  • 1 cup (90 g) panko breadcrumbs (Japanese-style recommended)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tsp salt (kosher salt preferred)
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Olive oil spray
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Set up breading stations: In one shallow bowl, mix all-purpose flour with garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs. (5 minutes)
  3. Coat the fish by dredging each fillet in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess, then dip into beaten eggs letting excess drip back, and finally press into the panko breadcrumbs for an even coating. (10 minutes)
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  5. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil. Place breaded fillets in a single layer without crowding. Spray tops lightly with olive oil spray. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and flaky. (12-15 minutes total cooking)
  6. Check that internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If needed, air fry in 2-minute increments to avoid overcooking.
  7. Remove carefully with tongs and serve immediately with lemon wedges. (2 minutes)

Notes

Patting the fish dry before breading is essential for crispiness. Press breadcrumbs firmly onto the fish to avoid patchy crusts. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to prevent steaming. Flip gently halfway through cooking. For thicker fillets, add a couple of minutes to cooking time. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy cod, air fryer fish, easy fish recipe, healthy fried fish, flaky cod, quick dinner, family meal, panko crusted fish