Cod in Air Fryer

Total Time: 18-22 minutes
Active Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8-12 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Serves: 2

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Ingredients

• 2 (6-ounce) cod fillets, about 1-inch thick (fresh or thawed)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• ½ teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Crust:

• ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, omit for dairy-free)

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill or ¼ teaspoon dried

• ¼ teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)

• 1 tablespoon melted butter or olive oil

For Serving (Optional):

• Lemon wedges

• Additional fresh herbs

• Steamed green beans, asparagus, or a simple arugula salad

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Equipment

• Air Fryer

• Small mixing bowls (2)

• Pastry brush or spoon

• Tongs or a silicone spatula

• Paper towels

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Instructions

1. Prep the Cod (5 minutes)

Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels. This is the most crucial step for getting a crispy crust, as excess moisture will steam the fish. Place the dry fillets on a plate.

In a small bowl, whisk together the 1 tablespoon olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, generously coat the top and sides of each fillet with this mixture. Set aside.

2. Make the Crust (3 minutes)

In a separate small bowl, combine the panko, Parmesan (if using), parsley, dill, and paprika. Drizzle the melted butter or olive oil over the mixture and toss with a fork until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened and the mixture looks like coarse sand.

3. Apply the Crust (2 minutes)

Divide the panko mixture evenly, pressing it firmly onto the top of each mustard-coated cod fillet. Gently pat it down so it adheres. The mustard mixture acts as a glue. For maximum crispiness, avoid getting the crust on the very bottom.

4. Air Fry (8-12 minutes)

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes, if your model recommends it.
Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with a touch of oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the crusted cod fillets in the basket, ensuring they are not touching to allow for proper air circulation.
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 12 minutes. Do not flip. The cook time depends on the thickness of your fillets. The cod is done when the crust is deeply golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork in the thickest part, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

5. Rest and Serve (2 minutes)

Using tongs or a spatula, carefully remove the crispy cod from the air fryer. Let it rest on a plate for 1-2 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist, flaky fish.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and your chosen sides.

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Chef’s Notes & Tips for Success

• Thickness is Key: Uniform, 1-inch thick fillets cook most evenly. If your fillets are thinner, reduce the cook time by 2-3 minutes. If thicker, add 2-3 minutes.

• No Panko? Regular breadcrumbs will work but won’t be as crispy. Crushed plain pork rinds make a fantastic gluten-free, low-carb alternative.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Cooking in a single layer is essential. Cook in batches if necessary.

• Frozen Cod: Thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat extra dry before proceeding.

• Variations: Add ¼ teaspoon of onion powder or cayenne pepper to the crust for a kick. Swap the dill for thyme or tarragon.

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Nutritional Information (Per serving, without optional sides)

• Calories: ~285

• Total Fat: 13g

• Saturated Fat: 4g (or less if using olive oil only)

• Cholesterol: 85mg

• Sodium: ~450mg (adjustable based on salt added)

• Total Carbohydrates: 8g

• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g

• Sugars: 1g

• Protein: 32g

Nutritional Highlights: This recipe is an excellent source of high-quality, lean protein and selenium. Cod is low in calories and saturated fat while providing beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Using an air fryer significantly reduces the fat content compared to traditional pan-frying.

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Enjoy your delicious, healthy, and effortlessly crispy air fryer cod! It’s proof that a gourmet-tasting, nutritious meal can be on your table faster than takeout.