Air Fryer Blackened Cod Bites

Ingredients

For the Cod Bites:

• Cod Fillets: 1.5 lbs fresh or thoroughly thawed frozen cod fillets (cut into uniform 1.5-inch bite-sized chunks)
• Olive Oil Spray or Avocado Oil Spray: 1.5 tablespoons (essential for helping the spices “blacken” and crisp up without burning)
• Fresh Lemon Wedges: For serving
• Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped (for optional garnish)

For the Blackened Seasoning Blend:

• Smoked Paprika: 1 tablespoon (gives the signature rich, smoky color and flavor)
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Kosher Salt: 3/4 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Dried Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
• Dried Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
• Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon (adjust down to a pinch for mild, or up to 3/4 teaspoon for extra heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

1. Thaw and Dry: If using frozen cod, ensure it is completely thawed. Pat the cod fillets thoroughly dry using clean paper towels. Tip: Removing excess surface moisture is the secret to getting the spices to stick and the fish to crisp rather than steam. Cut into Bites: Cut the dry fillets uniformly into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1.5 inches square. Try to keep them even in size so they cook at the exact same rate.

Step 2: Mix the Blackened Spices

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the smoked paprika , garlic powder , onion powder , kosher salt , black pepper , dried thyme , dried oregano , and cayenne pepper . Stir well until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Season the Cod Bites

1. Place the cod bites into a clean bowl or directly onto a parchment-lined tray.
2. Lightly spray the pieces all over with your olive or avocado oil spray , gently tossing them with clean hands or a spatula to coat every side.
3. Sprinkle the blackened spice blend evenly over the fish chunks. Gently toss again to ensure every single bite is heavily coated in the aromatic spice mixture.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. A hot air fryer basket prevents the delicate fish from sticking and ensures an immediate sear.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

1. Arrange: Lightly mist the preheated air fryer basket with a bit more oil spray. Place the seasoned cod bites into the basket in a single layer , leaving a small amount of space between each piece for air circulation. Note: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in two separate batches to avoid overcrowding.
2. Cook: Air fry at 400°F for 7 to 9 minutes . Because they are cut into bite-sized pieces, they cook exceptionally fast.
3. Check: Give the basket a gentle shake or flip the pieces halfway through the cooking time (around the 4-minute mark). The fish is ready when the edges are darkened and charred, and the internal flesh flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) .

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the blackened cod bites immediately from the air fryer basket.
2. Transfer them to a serving platter, squeeze fresh lemon juice generously over the top, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot!

Nutrition

Calories: 142 kcal · Protein: 27.5 g · Fat: 3.1 g Saturated Fat: 0.5 g · Carbohydrates: 2.8 g Dietary Fiber: 0.8 g · Saturated Fat: 0.5 g Monounsaturated · Fiber: 0.8 g · Sugar: 0.2 g Preppy Kitchen · Sodium: 485 mg