Air Fryer Cod in 13 minutes

If you’re searching for a quick and healthy dinner solution that doesn’t skimp on flavor, look no further than this easy Air Fryer Cod recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this simple recipe delivers flaky, tender cod fillets in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods. Whether you’re a fan of crispy cod or prefer it to be tender and juicy, this recipe is a game-changer for fish lovers everywhere.

Why cook cod in the Air Fryer?

Air frying is one of the best ways to achieve perfectly cooked cod with a crispy exterior and a tender, flaky interior. The hot air circulating in the air fryer ensures even cooking, making it a reliable method for preparing a variety of white fish, including cod. This air fryer cod fish recipe is quick and requires minimal oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy fresh fish without the hassle of deep frying, and the result is always delicious.

PRO TIPS for the Best Air Fryer Cod

1. Pat Dry for Crispy Cod: Removing excess moisture with a paper towel is crucial for getting that desirable crispy exterior.
2. Preheat for Perfection: Always preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
3. Single-Layer Cooking: Arrange your cod fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even cooking and to avoid overlapping, which can lead to soggy spots.
4. Temperature Matters: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the cod fillets; for optimal doneness, they should reach 145°F (63°C).
5. Experiment with Seasonings: While this recipe uses a simple blend of avocado oil, lemon, and black pepper, don’t hesitate to try garlic powder, onion powder, or Old Bay seasoning for added flavor.

Ingredients needed for ary fryer cod

• Avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for air frying and ensuring your cod gets a crispy, golden exterior without burning.
• Lemon: The lemon juice adds a bright, zesty flavor that complements the mild flavor of the cod, making it taste fresh and vibrant.
• Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the cod and ensuring every bite is delicious.
• Dried parsley: Adds a subtle herby note that pairs beautifully with the lemon and cod.
• Black pepper: Provides a hint of heat and depth of flavor to the dish.
• Cod fillets (about 320g/11oz): Cod is a mild, flaky white fish that cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors of the seasonings beautifully.

How to cook air fryer cod

Combine the avocado oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, dried parsley, and black pepper in a small bowl. Mix well until thoroughly combined.

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.

Brush the seasoned oil mixture evenly over both sides of the cod fillets, ensuring they are well coated.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Place the cod fillets in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping.

Air fry the cod fillets at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes. When done, the cod should be golden brown and flake easily with a fork.

Carefully remove the cod fillets from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. If desired, garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Note: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the cod fillets and your air fryer model. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the best results.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover cod fillets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place the cod fillets back in the air fryer or an oven until warmed, about 2-3 minutes. This will help retain the crispy texture without drying out the fish.

Cooking Methods for Cod

While air frying is one of the best methods for cooking cod, you can also bake, grill, or pan-fry cod fillets. Each method offers a different texture and flavor profile:

• Baking: For a hands-off approach, bake cod fillets at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
• Grilling: For a smoky flavor, grill cod fillets over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
• Pan-Frying: For a quick sear, cook cod in a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil for 3-4 minutes per side.

Serving Suggestions

Air-fried Cod pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it with air-fried potato wedges or asparagus. You can also use it as a filling for fish tacos, topped with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lime juice, and a dollop of tartar sauce. Enjoy a classic pairing with a side of French fries and a lemon wedge.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cod fillets for this air fryer recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.

2. How do I know when the cod fillets are cooked through?

The cod fillets are cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flake easily with a fork.

3. Can I use other types of fish instead of cod?

Absolutely! Haddock, halibut, and tilapia are all great substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish fillets.

4. Do I need to flip the cod fillets during cooking?

No, flipping is unnecessary when air frying cod as the hot air circulates evenly around the fish.

5. How should I store leftover cooked cod fillets?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven before serving.

Enjoy this easy air fryer cod recipe for a quick, healthy dinner that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and can be easily adapted to suit your taste.