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Air Fryer Crispy Cod

Close-up of a flaky white cod fillet with a golden brown, crispy coating made using the Air Fryer Crispy Cod method.

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Make flaky, moist cod with a perfectly crisp coating using your air fryer. This recipe uses a simple panko crust for maximum crunch with minimal oil.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (6 ounce) cod fillets, fresh or thawed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil based)

Instructions

  1. Pat the cod fillets completely dry using paper towels. This step is key for crispiness.
  2. Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
  3. In the second dish, whisk the egg and water together until combined.
  4. In the third dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika.
  5. Dredge each cod fillet first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  6. Dip the floured fillet into the egg wash, letting excess drip off.
  7. Press the fillet firmly into the panko mixture to coat both sides evenly.
  8. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated cod fillets in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
  9. Spray the tops of the coated fish lightly with cooking spray.
  10. Air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Notes

  • For an extra crispy crust, chill the breaded fish in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before air frying.
  • If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with rice flour and the panko with gluten-free panko crumbs.
  • Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary to maintain air circulation and crispness.

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