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Air Fryer Cod (Easy 15-Minute Dinner) Recipe

Air Fryer Cod (Easy 15-Minute Dinner) Recipe

5.2 from 8 reviews

This Air Fryer Cod recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to prepare tender, flaky cod fillets in just 15 minutes. With a zesty lemon and spice blend, this dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner that’s crispy on the outside and moist inside, all made effortlessly in your air fryer.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

  • 4 6-oz cod fillets

Marinade

  • 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 1/2 a lemon)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Seasoning

  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 3/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Others

  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and allow it to heat up while you prepare the cod. This ensures even cooking and a crispy finish.
  2. Dry the fish: Use paper towels to pat each cod fillet dry. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick better and improves browning.
  3. Mix the seasoning: In a small bowl, combine sea salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and optional cayenne pepper. This spice blend adds a balanced heat and smoky flavor.
  4. Prepare the marinade: In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. This mixture will keep the fish moist and infuse it with citrus brightness.
  5. Coat the fish: Brush each cod fillet on both sides with the olive oil and lemon mixture. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly on both sides of the fillets, gently patting to help it adhere.
  6. Air fry the cod: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the cod fillets in the basket without crowding. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F (60-63°C).

Notes

  • Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of cod fillets and air fryer models.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed for even cooking.
  • Use a food thermometer to ensure the fish has reached the safe internal temperature for seafood.
  • For milder flavor, omit the cayenne pepper.
  • This recipe works well with other white fish like haddock or pollock.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer cod, easy cod recipe, healthy fish dinner, quick seafood recipe, lemon cod air fryer