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Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod

A quick and healthy recipe for cod fillets with a crunchy, cheesy topping, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz / 170g each), fresh or thawed frozen
  • 1 cup (100g) finely grated Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano recommended)
  • ½ cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs (Japanese-style preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (kosher salt recommended)
  • Olive oil spray (or melted butter for brushing)
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 400°F (205°C) for 5 minutes.
  2. Mix the coating: In a shallow bowl, combine Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Prepare the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper.
  4. Coat the fillets: Press each fillet into the Parmesan-panko mixture, coating both sides generously. If the crust doesn’t stick well, mist the fish lightly with olive oil first.
  5. Spray for crispiness: Lightly spray both sides of the coated fillets with olive oil spray.
  6. Air fry the cod: Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 5-6 minutes, carefully flip, and cook another 5-6 minutes until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily.
  7. Check for doneness: The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  8. Serve: Serve immediately with fresh lemon juice squeezed over the fillets.

Notes

For best results, don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Experiment with different herbs and spices for varied flavors.

Nutrition