Easy High-Protein Air Fryer Cod Fillets in Rich Garlic Herb Butter

Crispy on the edges, wonderfully tender inside, and bursting with fresh aromatic flavor, this Air Fryer Cod with Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce transforms simple

Equipment

• Air Fryer — Circulates dry, high-velocity heat to produce flaky, golden fillets in minutes without deep frying.
• Small Saucepan — Gently controls heat to emulsify cream, butter, and aromatics into a smooth, glossy sauce.
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer — Takes the guesswork out of doneness, ensuring your fish hits an exact, juicy 145°F (63°C).
• Silicone Spatula — Carefully lifts delicate cooked fish fillets from the basket without breaking them apart.

Ingredients

• 2 fresh cod fillets (approx. 6 oz / 170g each; pat completely dry with paper towels)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves fresh garlic (minced finely)
• ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream (full-fat ensures a stable sauce)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh dill (finely chopped; fresh parsley works well as a substitute)
• 1 tbsp fresh chives (minced)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep the Cod: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Thoroughly pat both sides of the cod fillets dry using paper towels to remove all surface moisture.
2. Season the Fish: Rub the cod fillets with olive oil. In a small ramekin, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper; evenly coat all sides of the fillets with the spice blend.
3. Air Fry to Perfection: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the seasoned cod fillets in a single layer with space between them. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes (depending on thickness) until the exterior is lightly golden, the fish flakes effortlessly with a fork, and an internal meat thermometer reads 145°F (63°C).
4. Sauté the Garlic: While the cod cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for about 60 seconds until fragrant and translucent, making sure not to brown or burn the garlic.
5. Simmer the Cream: Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring the mixture to a gentle, low simmer (small bubbles around the edges). Let it reduce slightly for 2 to 3 minutes until it lightly coats the back of a spoon.
6. Finish with Herbs & Citrus: Remove the pan from the heat. Whisk in the fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, and chives, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
7. Plate & Serve: Carefully transfer the air-fried cod fillets to serving plates using a silicone spatula. Spoon the warm creamy garlic herb sauce generously over the top and garnish with an extra sprig of dill and a fresh lemon wedge.

Nutrition

Calories: 340 kcal · Protein: 34 g · Fat: s: 22 g Cholesterol: 115 mg · Carbohydrates: 2.5 g · Fiber: 0.6 g · Sugar: 1.1 g · Sodium: 680 mg