Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick better and allows the fish to develop a light golden crust during cooking.
Step 2: Season the Cod
Brush both sides of each cod fillet with olive oil.
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Although some air fryers do not require preheating, doing so helps produce more even cooking.
Step 4: Arrange the Fish
Place the seasoned cod fillets into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Leave a little space between each piece so hot air can circulate properly.
Cook in batches if necessary.
Step 5: Air Fry
Cook the cod for 8–10 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
The fish is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Step 6: Serve
Carefully remove the cod from the air fryer using a spatula.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh or fully thawed frozen cod for the best texture.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Thicker fillets may require an extra 1–2 minutes of cooking time.
- Fresh lemon juice added just before serving brightens the flavor.
- Do not overcook the fish, as cod can become dry.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Cod pairs well with:
- Garlic roasted asparagus
- Steamed broccoli
- Rice pilaf
- Mashed potatoes
- Lemon butter green beans
- Mixed green salad
- Quinoa
- Roasted sweet potatoes
Storage
Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the fish in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes until warmed through.
Freezing is possible for up to 2 months, although freshly cooked cod has the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes. Thaw the fish completely before seasoning for the best results and even cooking.
Do I need to flip the fish?
No. Most air fryers cook cod evenly without flipping, although very thick fillets can be turned halfway through cooking if desired.
What temperature should cod reach?
Cod is safely cooked when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Can I use other fish?
Absolutely. This seasoning blend works well with haddock, tilapia, halibut, pollock, and mahi-mahi.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Approximate)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Potassium: 720mg