Name: Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Cod | Easy Baked Fish in Air Fryer Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets – about 6 oz each, fresh or thawed if frozen; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – for that signature airy crunch; ½ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated – the star of the crust; 1 tsp garlic powder – brings warm, savory depth; 1 tsp onion powder – adds a subtle sweetness; 1 tsp dried oregano – a hint of herby flavor; ½ tsp paprika – for smoky color and a little kick; Salt & black pepper – to season every bite; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – optional, but makes it pop; ¼ cup mayonnaise – helps the coating stick and keeps fish moist; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – adds tang and brightness; 1 tbsp lemon juice – freshens up the flavor

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There’s just something magical about cooking fish in air fryer, baked fish in air fryer—that golden, crunchy crust with a flaky center you can’t resist. This crispy air fryer Parmesan cod is the perfect mashup of comfort and healthy eating. Forget soggy fish sticks or greasy deep-fried filets—this is restaurant-quality flavor made right in your kitchen, minus the oil splatter.

I still remember the first time I had Parmesan-crusted cod at a beachside shack (yes, a shack, not a fancy restaurant!). The ocean breeze, crispy coating, and flaky, tender fish created one of those core food memories. Now, I get to recreate that seaside magic at home with my air fryer—and you can too.

What Makes This Recipe So Irresistible

– Crispy and golden: The air fryer gives you that perfect crunch without deep frying.
– Family-friendly: This is one of my go-to fish family meals—even the kids love it.
– Healthy twist: Low oil, high flavor. Perfect if you’re into low carb cod fish recipes.
– Quick & easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
– Versatile: Pairs beautifully with roasted veggies, salads, or even tucked into tacos.

Ingredients You’ll Need

– 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each) – Mild and flaky, perfect for breading. You can also swap for tilapia or even try this technique with perch fish recipes air fryer style.
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – The secret to a light, crunchy crust.
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese – Salty, nutty, and helps the crust turn golden.
– Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika – These bring the flavor punch.
– Salt & pepper – Season those fillets well!
– 1 tbsp olive oil or mayo – Helps the coating stick and adds richness.
– Fresh parsley – Optional, but makes the plate pop.

Quick Sauce (Optional)

– 1/4 cup mayo
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tbsp lemon juice

How to Make It (Simple Steps!)

Prep the fish: Pat fillets dry—this is key! Moisture = soggy coating. Season with salt & pepper.
Mix coating: Combine panko, Parmesan, and spices in a shallow dish.
Coat fillets: Brush with mayo or olive oil, then press into the breadcrumb mixture.
Preheat the air fryer: 400°F for about 5 minutes. Don’t skip this step—hot basket = crispy fish.
Air fry: Arrange fillets in a single layer (no overlapping!) and cook 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Internal temp should hit 145°F.
Serve hot: Sprinkle parsley, squeeze lemon, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Outcome

– Don’t overcrowd the basket. Hot air needs to circulate or you’ll end up steaming instead of crisping.
– Double coat for extra crunch. Dip in mayo + crumbs twice for a thicker crust.
– Check doneness early. Every air fryer is different, so start peeking at 8-9 minutes.
– Try other fish. This method works beautifully for baked fish in air fryer recipes, even swordfish recipes air fryer style.

Delicious Variations to Try

– Herb-Lover’s Version: Mix chopped dill, basil, or parsley into the breadcrumbs.
– Lemon-Pepper Twist: Add lemon zest and cracked pepper for a zesty vibe.
– Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
– Mediterranean Style: Serve over Greek salad for a twist on cod salad recipes.

Golden, crispy Parmesan-crusted cod fillets in an air fryer basket, perfect for Air Fryer Baked Fish Recipes and quick Fish Family Meals. Easy Baked Fish In Air Fryer recipe ideal for weeknight dinners, inspired by Perch Fish Recipes Air Fryer but works for cod, too. A flaky and light option for Cod Salad Recipes, a simple Baked Cod In Air Fryer meal, great for keto-friendly plans like Low Carb Cod Fish Recipes. The perfect guide for anyone Cooking Fish In Air Fryer or experimenting with Swordfish Recipes Air Fryer.

Best Ways to Serve It

– With roasted veggies: Broccoli, zucchini, or carrots pair perfectly.
– Over rice or quinoa: A filling, balanced dinner.
– In tacos: Shred and stuff into tortillas with slaw for crispy fish tacos.
– As part of a meal prep bowl: This makes a great protein addition for weekday lunches.

Storage & Leftover Tips

– Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
– Reheat: Pop back into the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 375°F to bring the crunch back.
– Avoid microwaving—it’ll turn the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry—extra moisture kills crispiness.

Can I bake this instead?
Totally. Bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes. The air fryer just gives a better crunch IMO.

What if I don’t have panko?
Use regular breadcrumbs, but they won’t be quite as crispy.

This recipe is proof that air fryer baked fish recipes can be both healthy and crave-worthy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, the fam, or impressing friends, this baked cod in air fryer recipe is a total weeknight win. Grab those fillets, preheat that air fryer, and let’s make some crispy magic!

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Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Cod | Easy Baked Fish in Air Fryer Dinner