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Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod

A quick and easy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod recipe featuring tender, flaky cod coated in a crispy, golden parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a healthy, flavorful weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup and versatile serving options.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

  • 4 cod fillets (fresh or thawed, about 6 oz each)

Coating

  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

For Adhesion and Cooking

  • 2 large eggs
  • Olive oil or cooking spray, for air fryer basket

Instructions

  1. Prep the Cod Fillets: Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to help the coating stick better and prevent sogginess.
  2. Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine grated parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly blended to create the flavorful crust base.
  3. Egg Wash for Adhesion: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl until smooth; this egg wash will act as the glue making the coating stick firmly to the cod.
  4. Coat the Cod: Dip each fillet into the egg wash, fully coating it, then press gently into the parmesan breadcrumb mixture on all sides. Set coated fillets aside on a plate.
  5. Preheat the Air Fryer and Cook: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray. Place the coated cod fillets in the basket without crowding to allow even air circulation. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the cod from the air fryer, garnish as desired with parsley, lemon juice, or extra parmesan, and serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

  • Dry fish thoroughly to ensure the coating crisps properly.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for the best crunchy texture.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow free air circulation.
  • Flip the fillets halfway through cooking for even browning.
  • Adjust cooking time if fillets are thicker to ensure doneness.

Nutrition

Keywords: cod, air fryer, parmesan crust, crispy fish, quick dinner, seafood, healthy, gluten-free