A recipe for crispy cod fillets seasoned with lemon and herbs, coated in panko and Parmesan, and cooked in an air fryer for a golden, crunchy exterior and moist interior.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 fresh lemon, cut into wedges
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and inspect for any remaining bones, removing them if necessary.
- Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the cod.
- In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest, mixing thoroughly.
- Press each seasoned cod fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides evenly and gently pressing to help the coating adhere.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place the coated cod fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway through.
- Remove the cod from the air fryer and allow it to rest for 2 minutes.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving immediately.
Notes
Tips for Success: Dry the fish thoroughly to ensure crispiness; do not overcook as cod cooks quickly; use fresh lemon juice for better flavor; preheat the air fryer for a crisp crust; use panko for a lighter crunch. Serving Suggestions: Pairs well with roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, steamed broccoli, lemon rice, herb-roasted potatoes, coleslaw, mixed greens salad, or quinoa pilaf. Serve with tartar sauce or light garlic aioli. Variations: Mediterranean (add oregano, dill, feta), Spicy Lemon (add cayenne, red pepper flakes), Gluten-Free (use GF panko), Garlic Herb (increase garlic powder, add fresh minced garlic). Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months. Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes.
