Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Cod

$To make crispy Parmesan air fryer cod, gather these key ingredients: - 4 cod fillets (6 oz each) - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - ½ teaspoon paprika - ½ teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 large egg - 2 tablespoons lemon juice - Cooking spray You can add extra flavor to your cod with these options: - Fresh herbs like parsley or dill - A pinch of cayenne pepper for heat - Lemon zest for a bright touch Each serving of crispy Parmesan air fryer cod is healthy and filling. Here’s what you get: - Calories: 320 - Protein: 30g - Carbohydrates: 20g - Fat: 15g - Fiber: 1g This meal is not only tasty but also provides a good balance of protein and healthy fats. Enjoy this dish guilt-free! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, take the cod fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating stick better. Make sure they are not wet. If they are, the breading will not crisp up nicely. Drying them well is key for that perfect crunch! In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix it well. This coating gives the cod its crispy texture and rich flavor. In another bowl, beat one large egg and mix in two tablespoons of lemon juice. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the fish. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once ready, take each cod fillet and dip it into the egg mixture. Make sure it is fully coated. Then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure it sticks. Place the coated fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispiness. Cook the cod for 10-12 minutes. Check halfway through to see if it’s cooking evenly. The cod should be golden brown and flake easily with a fork when done. Once cooked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. To get the best crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs. They create a light and airy coating. Before frying, spray the cod with cooking spray. This helps the coating turn golden brown. You can also flip the fillets halfway through cooking. This ensures both sides get crispy. Do not skip drying the cod fillets. Patting them dry helps the coating stick. Avoid using too much egg mixture. If the fillets are soggy, the coating won't crisp up. Make sure to coat each fillet evenly. This prevents bald spots and helps achieve a golden crust. Use a high-quality cooking spray for the best results. Olive oil spray adds a nice flavor. Canola oil spray works well too. Both options help achieve that crispy texture without added calories. Avoid sprays with propellants, as they can leave a bad taste. Pro Tips Choose Fresh Cod: Always opt for fresh, high-quality cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that are moist and have a mild scent of the sea. Egg Mixture is Key: The egg and lemon juice mixture not only helps the breadcrumbs stick but also enhances the flavor of the fish. Make sure to coat each fillet thoroughly. Adjust Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary in performance. Check your cod halfway through cooking to ensure it doesn’t overcook, adjusting the time as needed. For Extra Crispiness: Lightly spraying the tops of the fillets with cooking spray before air frying promotes a golden, crispy coating that enhances the overall texture. {{image_2}} If you want a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. These breadcrumbs give you the same crunch without the gluten. You can also swap the flour with almond flour or crushed cornflakes for a tasty twist. For added flavor, mix in herbs and spices. Consider using fresh parsley, dill, or basil. You can also try adding cayenne pepper for heat or lemon zest for brightness. Experimenting with different herbs can create new taste experiences. Pair your crispy cod with simple sides. A fresh salad or steamed veggies works well. For sauces, tartar sauce or a homemade lemon aioli adds a nice touch. You can also serve with a side of rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. To store leftover cod, let it cool first. Place the fillets in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to cover the cod to keep it fresh. When you are ready to eat, reheat the cod in the air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This keeps the coating crispy. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the fish soggy. If you want to keep the cod longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze the cod for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Yes, you can use fresh cod. Fresh cod will taste great. Just ensure it is at a similar size. If your fillets are thicker, you may need to adjust cooking time. If your fillets are thicker than 6 oz, cook them a little longer. Start with 12-14 minutes. Check for a golden crust and flaky fish. You want it fully cooked but not dry. You can use Pecorino Romano as a substitute. It has a sharp flavor similar to Parmesan. Nutritional yeast is another option for a dairy-free choice. Both will still give you a nice crust. Yes, you can bake the cod in an oven instead. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the coated fillets on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Check for doneness. We covered essential ingredients, instructions, and tips for cooking cod. You learned how to achieve crispiness, avoid common mistakes, and explore variations for extra flavor. Remember to store leftovers properly and reheat them to keep that perfect crunch. With these steps, you can enjoy a delicious meal anytime. Embrace the fun of cooking and don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite flavors!$

Deliciously crispy cod fillets coated in Parmesan and panko, cooked to perfection in an air fryer.

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Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

4 fillets cod (6 oz each)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
to taste salt and pepper
1 large egg
2 tablespoons lemon juice
as needed cooking spray

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
In another bowl, beat the egg and mix in the lemon juice.
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Dip each fillet into the egg mixture, making sure it is fully coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to adhere the coating.
Arrange the coated cod fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
Air fry the cod for 10-12 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Check halfway through and adjust the cooking time if necessary based on your air fryer model.
Carefully remove the cod from the air fryer. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.

Keyword air fryer, cod, Parmesan, seafood