Air Fryer Cod: Can You Do It?

Yes, you can cook cod in an air fryer. It's a quick, easy, and healthy way to prepare this mild-flavoured white fish. The air fryer method produces a moist, flaky texture with a tender, crispy exterior.

How to cook cod in an air fryer

Ingredients

• Cod fillets
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Cayenne pepper (optional)

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel.
• In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil and lemon juice.
• In a separate bowl, combine all the spices.
• Brush the cod fillets with the olive oil and lemon juice mixture.
• Sprinkle the spice mix on both sides of the fillets.
• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
• Place the cod fillets in the basket, ensuring they are in a single layer.
• Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.

Tips:

• Choose thicker cod fillets to prevent them from drying out.
• If using frozen cod, air fry for 3-4 minutes first to thaw, then add the oil, lemon, and seasonings, and continue air frying as usual.
• For moist and flaky results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Remove the cod from the air fryer when it reaches an internal temperature of 135-140°F.
• Serve with sides such as asparagus, potatoes, or a salad.

How to thaw frozen cod for air frying

Yes, you can put cod in an air fryer! Here are some tips on how to thaw frozen cod for air frying:

The first step is to remove the cod from its packaging and place it on a plate or in a bowl. If your frozen cod is wrapped in plastic, make sure to remove all the plastic before proceeding. Then, drizzle or brush olive oil on the cod and rub it into all surfaces. This will help the cod cook evenly and prevent it from drying out.

Next, season the cod with salt and pepper, and any other dried herbs or spices of your choice. You can use dried oregano, thyme, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, smoked paprika, chili powder, or even curry powder. You can also coat the cod with breadcrumbs or panko for an extra crispy texture, but this step is optional.

Now, you're ready to air fry your cod! Preheat your air fryer to between 380-400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare the cod by lightly spraying it with olive oil and sprinkling on the herbs or spices.

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the cod in the air fryer basket, making sure there is a little space between the fillets to allow for air circulation. Set the temperature to 380 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 8 minutes. Then, flip the cod and cook for another 6-8 minutes, or until the cod reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Finally, serve your cod with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and your choice of sides. Enjoy!

Air fryer cod seasoning ideas

Cod cooked in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to prepare a delicious meal. The air fryer method produces a tender, flaky texture and a mild, lemony garlic flavor that is not too "fishy."

Simple Salt and Pepper:

For a classic flavor, stick to the basics. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the cod fillets before placing them in the air fryer. This combination enhances the natural taste of the fish without overwhelming it.

Lemon-Pepper Seasoning:

Lemon and fish are a classic combination, and adding lemon pepper to your cod will brighten up the dish. The citrusy notes of lemon pepper complement the mild flavor of cod, adding a tangy twist to your meal.

Old Bay Seasoning:

Old Bay Seasoning is a popular choice for seafood, and it works wonderfully with air fryer cod. It adds a unique blend of herbs and spices, enhancing the natural flavors of the fish.

Cajun Spice:

If you prefer a spicier option, cajun seasoning is an excellent choice. It adds a kick of heat and a unique blend of spices, giving your cod a Louisiana-inspired flavor.

Garlic Powder, Paprika, Salt, and Black Pepper:

For a well-rounded flavor profile, combine garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This combination adds a savory note to the cod, enhancing its natural taste without overpowering it.

Dried Thyme, Oregano, Paprika, Chili Powder, and Garlic Powder:

For those who enjoy a more complex flavor profile, this combination of spices will deliver. The thyme and oregano add an earthy, aromatic touch, while the paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder contribute to a savory and slightly spicy flavor.

Smoked Paprika and Garlic Powder:

Smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor to the cod, while garlic powder contributes a savory note. This combination creates a well-rounded taste that enhances the mild flavor of the fish.

Tartar Sauce:

While not a seasoning per se, serving your air fryer cod with tartar sauce on the side adds a tangy, creamy dimension to the dish. It's an excellent complement to the mild flavor of the fish.

Lemon Herb Butter:

Lemon and butter are a classic combination, and when paired with air fryer cod, they create a bright and rich flavor profile. The lemon adds a tangy twist, while the butter contributes a creamy, decadent touch.

Air fryer cod cooking times

Air fryer cod is a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook cod, resulting in a tender, flaky, and moist texture. Here are the steps to follow, along with some tips on cooking times:

Preparation:

First, gather your ingredients: cod fillets, olive oil or avocado oil, lemon juice, and your choice of seasonings. You can use a simple combination of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne, or try other blends like Old Bay Seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or lemon pepper.

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. If your fillets have skin, that's fine; just ensure the fish is dry before proceeding. Cut the fillets into pieces that fit your air fryer basket, and place them in the basket with the skin side down.

Cooking:

Preheat your air fryer to between 360-400°F (180-204°C). The higher the temperature, the shorter the cooking time, but be mindful of your air fryer's capabilities and the thickness of your fillets. Thicker fillets will take longer to cook and are best cooked at lower temperatures to prevent overcooking the exterior before the interior is done.

Drizzle or brush the cod with olive oil and lemon juice, and sprinkle your chosen seasonings over the fillets. You can also whisk the oil and lemon juice together and brush this mixture onto the fish before seasoning.

Place the cod in the air fryer basket, ensuring the fillets aren't crowded and have some space around them for the hot air to circulate. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the cod in batches.

Cook the cod for 6-10 minutes. Thicker fillets will take longer, and thinner ones may be done in as little as 5 minutes. Check the cod after 6 minutes to ensure it doesn't overcook. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Tips:

• Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the cod. This is the best way to ensure your fish is cooked perfectly.
• If your cod fillets have varying thicknesses, remove the thinner pieces first and allow the thicker ones to continue cooking.
• Parchment paper designed for air fryers can make cleanup easier.
• You can cook frozen cod in the air fryer, but it's best to thaw it first. To thaw frozen cod, either place it in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in a sealed bag in cold water for a quicker method.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, coat the cod in a tablespoon or two of panko breadcrumbs before air frying.
• For a simple side dish, serve the cod with lemon wedges, or make a dipping sauce like tartar sauce or avocado cilantro sauce.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy air fryer cod!

Air fryer cod serving suggestions

Air fryer cod is a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook this mild-flavoured white fish. It's also a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Salads

A light and fresh option, serve your air fryer cod with a salad. Try a creamy cucumber salad, a fruity spring mix salad, or a summery strawberry spinach salad. You could also go for a classic like a Caesar salad or a more substantial potato salad.

Vegetables

Asparagus is a great pairing for fish, but you can also try other air-fried veggies like broccoli or zucchini. If you're looking for something a little different, how about fried radishes or roasted rutabaga?

Potatoes

Potatoes are always a good choice to serve with fish. Try air fryer potatoes, baked potatoes, or sweet potato wedges. For a lighter option, go for roasted chickpeas or cauliflower.

Dipping Sauces

A simple lemon butter sauce or tartar sauce can take your air fryer cod to the next level. If you're feeling adventurous, whip up some avocado cilantro dipping sauce or spicy chipotle mayo.

Fish Tacos

Flake your air fryer cod with a fork and stuff it into tortillas with some taco slaw, avocado, and fresh cilantro. You can also use the cod as a protein boost in a taco bowl with rice.

Other Seafood Recipes

If you're a seafood lover, why not try making air fryer crab cakes, coconut shrimp, or garlic maple Dijon salmon? You can also experiment with different types of fish in the air fryer, such as tilapia, grouper, or halibut.

Frequently asked questions