Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe
This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod recipe offers a deliciously crunchy, golden-brown crust with tender, flaky cod fillets inside. Coated with a flavorful Parmesan and panko breadcrumb mixture and air-fried to perfection, this dish is a quick, healthy, and elegant way to enjoy seafood with minimal effort and mess.
- Author: Dana
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Coating
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Prepare the Cod Fillets: Pat each cod fillet dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Make the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create an even coating mixture.
- Prepare the Sauce: In another small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth and well blended.
- Coat the Fillets: Brush a generous layer of the mayo mixture onto one side of each cod fillet. Press the mayo-coated side firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure each fillet has an even and thorough crust.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure optimal crispiness.
- Air Fry the Cod: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated fillets in the basket without overcrowding. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the fish is cooked through.
- Check for Doneness: Verify that the internal temperature of the cod reaches 145°F (63°C). If not fully cooked, air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cod from the air fryer, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately with your preferred sides like a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Ensure cod fillets are patted dry before seasoning to help the coating stick better.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; air circulation is key for even crisping.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, this recipe can be baked in an oven at 425°F for 12-15 minutes.
- Adjust seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture to your taste preferences.
- Serve with lemon wedges for an additional fresh citrus flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (6 oz)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: air fryer cod, crispy cod recipe, parmesan crusted fish, healthy fish dinner, easy air fryer seafood, quick cod recipe