When you’re craving something light, healthy, and satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen this air fryer cod recipe is my top pick. I created this version to be both simple and reliable, perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight but flavor still matters. With just a handful of pantry staples and your air fryer, you can whip up flaky cod fillets that rival anything you’d get in a seafood restaurant.

Why This Recipe Works

I’ve always loved cod for its mild flavor and flaky texture, but cooking it right can be tricky—especially when you want to keep things healthy. That’s where the air fryer comes in. It gives you all the crisp without deep frying, which means less oil and fewer calories, but still great texture.

This cod turns out beautifully seasoned and juicy inside, with a subtle crispness on the outside. I’ve used it for casual dinners and even meal preps, and it never disappoints. The recipe uses lemon juice and olive oil to add brightness and moisture, while a simple spice blend enhances the flavor without overwhelming the fish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

I keep things basic to let the cod shine, and I don’t mess with the ingredients because this combo just works:

• Cod fillets (or cod loins—just adjust the timing slightly)
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice (fresh or bottled)

That’s it! It’s likely you already have these at home.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Preheat & Prep: Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F. While that’s heating, use a paper towel to blot both sides of your cod fillets. This removes moisture and helps the seasoning stick better.
2. Oil & Lemon Coating: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil and lemon juice. Use a brush to coat both sides of the fillets. You can also use the remaining oil mixture to lightly coat the air fryer basket or tray to reduce sticking.
3. Seasoning: In another bowl, combine paprika, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Rub this blend evenly on both sides of the fish. This is where all the flavor magic happens.
4. Air Fry: Place the seasoned fillets in your air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8 minutes or until the thickest part of the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F and flakes easily with a fork. There’s no need to flip the fish—doing so can cause it to stick and break apart.

Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Cod

• Skip the flip: Flipping can cause the fish to fall apart or stick. Let the air fryer do its thing without interruption.
• Avoid sticking: A light coat of oil on the air fryer basket goes a long way. Silicone liners or parchment paper can also help.
• Watch the thickness: Thicker fillets like cod loins may need 10–13 minutes at 370°F. Always check with a meat thermometer.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

Optional Flavor Variations

Want to mix it up? Here are a few ways I change the flavor without changing the ingredients list:

• Add Old Bay seasoning for a classic seafood taste.
• Craving crunch? Dip the fillets in melted butter and coat with panko before air frying.
• Swap in blackened seasoning for a smoky, bold finish.
• Add fresh herbs like dill with lemon for a light, refreshing twist.

Serving Ideas

This cod is so versatile. I love pairing it with tartar sauce, a batch of air fryer tater tots, crispy asparagus, and even garlic toast. Whether it’s a family dinner or a solo night in, this dish delivers every time.

Cooking from Frozen?

Absolutely! If you’re using frozen cod, just air fry it at 350°F for 4 minutes first to thaw. Then season and coat with oil, and finish cooking at 370°F for 10–12 minutes.

Air Fryer Cod

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: UncategorizedCuisine: American

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

8

minutes

Calories

110

kcal

Total time

13

minutes

This air fryer cod is flaky, tender, and full of flavor. It’s the perfect healthy dinner that comes together in just 15 minutes with minimal ingredients

Ingredients

• 1 lb cod fillets

• 2 tsp lemon juice (fresh or bottled)

• 1½ tsp olive oil

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp garlic powder

• ⅛ tsp black pepper

Directions

• Preheat air fryer to 350°F. Pat dry both sides of the cod fillets.
• In a small bowl, mix lemon juice and olive oil. Brush onto both sides of the fillets.
• Mix paprika, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Rub onto the cod evenly
• Place fillets in a lightly oiled air fryer basket and cook for 8 minutes. Ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Notes

• Cooking frozen cod? Air fry at 350°F for 4 minutes, season, then finish at 370°F for 10–12 minutes.
• Reheat leftovers in a preheated air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes

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