Description
This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Cod recipe delivers a quick and delicious dinner option featuring tender cod fillets coated with a flavorful parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust. Air frying ensures a perfectly crispy exterior without excess oil, making it a healthier yet indulgent meal. Serve with a tangy homemade dipping sauce for an added burst of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Coating
- 4 pieces cod fillets (about 6 oz each; substitute with tilapia or perch if desired)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil or mayo
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Optional Dipping Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F to ensure it is hot and ready for cooking, which helps achieve a crispy crust on the cod fillets.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute all the spices.
- Coat Fish: Brush each cod fillet with olive oil or mayo, covering it completely. This helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the fish for maximum crunch.
- Apply Breadcrumbs: Gently press each coated fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring the coating sticks generously and evenly over the surface of the fish.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the coated fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between each piece for even air circulation.
- Air Fry the Cod: Cook the fillets in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes, checking for doneness. The cod should be opaque inside and the crust golden brown and crispy.
- Make Dipping Sauce (Optional): While the fish cooks, mix mayo, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth and well blended for a tangy dipping sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked cod fillets to a serving plate. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish and serve with the optional dipping sauce if desired.
Notes
- Cod can be substituted with tilapia or perch depending on availability or preference.
- Using mayo instead of olive oil to coat the fish adds moisture and helps the crust adhere better.
- Adjust seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture to taste or add other herbs like thyme or basil for variation.
- To ensure crispiness, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Check fish doneness by ensuring it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
- The dipping sauce is optional but adds a nice creamy and tangy complement to the crispy fish.
