Growing up, I always thought fish was complicated to cook at home. My early attempts usually ended with dry, overcooked fillets that made me want to stick to ordering it at restaurants instead. Then my sister convinced me to try using an air fryer, and it changed everything. With an air fryer, cod comes out perfectly flaky every single time – and it’s so simple that even my teenager can make it without help. If you’ve been nervous about cooking fish at home, this might just become your new go-to method.
Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution
For the cod fillets, other white fish like haddock, pollock, or tilapia can be used as alternatives. These fish have similar textures and mild flavors, making them suitable replacements while maintaining the dish’s overall profile. Adjust cooking time slightly based on fillet thickness.
Panko and Italian bread crumbs can be substituted with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb, gluten-free option. These alternatives provide a similar crunchy texture. Use slightly less than the recipe calls for, as they’re more dense than traditional bread crumbs.
Eggs can be replaced with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for a vegan version. This substitution acts as a binder, helping the breading adhere to the fish. Let the flax mixture sit for a few minutes to thicken before using. Alternatively, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt can be used as egg replacements, adding moisture and helping the breading stick to the fish.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 11-12 minutes |
| Total Time | 21-27 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 600-700
- Protein: 50-60 g
- Fat: 25-30 g
- Carbohydrates: 45-55 g
Ingredients
- 1 lb. cod fillets
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup italian bread crumbs
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp. milk
- 1 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 tsp. lemon & pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp. italian seasoning
- 1 tsp. mrs. dash chicken grilling blend
- Cooking oil – to spray the basket and fillets
- Sliced lemon (for garnish)
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Step 1: Prepare the Cod Fillets
Start by thawing the cod fillets if they are frozen.
Once thawed, pat them dry using a paper towel or let them sit on a rack to air dry.
This will help ensure the coating adheres properly to the fish.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating Mixtures
In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup of panko bread crumbs with 1/4 cup of Italian bread crumbs, mixing until well incorporated.
In a second bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 2 tablespoons of milk until combined.
Add 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, lemon and pepper seasoning, Italian seasoning, and Mrs.
Dash Chicken Grilling Blend to the egg mixture.
Whisk thoroughly to combine the seasonings with the egg mixture.
Step 3: Bread the Cod Fillets
Coat each cod fillet in the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well covered.
Next, roll the coated fillets in the breadcrumb mixture until they are lightly breaded on all sides.
This will give the cod a crispy exterior once cooked.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer and Cook the Fillets
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Place the breaded cod fillets carefully in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
Lightly spray the fillets with cooking oil to enhance the crispiness.
Cook the fillets in the air fryer for 8 minutes.
Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking
After 8 minutes of cooking, remove the air fryer basket and carefully flip the fillets over using tongs.
Cook the flipped fillets for an additional 3 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to ensure they are cooked through and have an even golden crust.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the cod fillets are cooked and have a crisp outer layer, remove them from the air fryer.
Serve immediately with slices of lemon and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for garnish.
Enjoy your delicious air-fried cod with your choice of sides.
