Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Cod
This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Cod is a simple and tasty way to enjoy flaky fish with a crunchy, cheesy crust. The cod fillets get coated in a mix of…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Cod is a simple and tasty way to enjoy flaky fish with a crunchy, cheesy crust. The cod fillets get coated in a mix of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, then cooked in the air fryer until perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside. It’s light but still full of flavor, making it great for an easy weeknight dinner.
I love how quick this recipe comes together, and using the air fryer means you don’t have to deal with a mess from frying. The Parmesan adds that nice salty bite, and the crispy coating keeps every bite satisfying. Whenever I make this, I feel like I’m cheating a little because it tastes so good but is actually pretty healthy!
My favorite way to serve this Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Cod is alongside some lemon wedges and a simple green salad or garlic butter steamed veggies. The lemon juice brightens it up and cuts through the richness of the crust just perfectly. It’s a dish that feels special but is really easy to whip up any night of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod Fillets: Cod is mild and flaky, perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find cod, try haddock, pollock, or tilapia. Just make sure the fillets are skinless and not too thick for even cooking.
Parmesan Cheese: This gives the crust a delicious cheesy flavor. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Asiago can work well too.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko creates a light and crispy crust. If unavailable, regular breadcrumbs are fine, but the crunch won’t be quite the same. Gluten-free breadcrumbs also work for dietary restrictions.
Egg and Milk: These help the coating stick to the fish. For a dairy-free version, use water or a plant-based milk instead of regular milk.
Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Brushing the crust with oil or butter helps it crisp up and turn golden brown. It’s optional but highly recommended!
How Do You Get the Crust Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Crisping the coating is the trickiest part when air frying fish. Here are some tips to get a golden and crunchy crust:
- Dry the Fish Well: Pat your fillets completely dry before coating. This helps the coating stick and prevents sogginess.
- Press the Coating On: After dipping in egg, press the breadcrumb and Parmesan mix firmly on both sides to make a solid crust.
- Use a Light Oil or Butter Brush: A quick brush on the crust adds crispness and color without needing deep frying.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Give each piece space in the air fryer basket so air can circulate evenly and crisp all around.
- Flip Halfway: Turn the fillets halfway through cooking for even browning on both sides.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – the key tool for making the cod crispy without deep frying.
- Two shallow bowls – one for the egg wash and one for the Parmesan breadcrumb mix.
- Cooking brush – helps you lightly oil the coated fillets for extra crispiness.
- Tongs – easy for flipping the cod safely in the air fryer basket.
- Paper towels – to pat the fish dry and keep the coating crisp.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try swapping cod with haddock or tilapia if you want a different mild fish.
- Add 1 tsp dried Italian herbs to the breadcrumb mix for a herby twist.
- Mix in a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the coating for some heat.
- Top with a squeeze of fresh lemon or a dollop of tartar sauce after air frying to enhance flavors.
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Cod
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), skinless
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp milk or water
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon slices (for serving)
- Asparagus spears, steamed or air fried (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep, 5 minutes to preheat the air fryer, and 10-12 minutes to cook. In total, you should plan for around 20-25 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Turn on your air fryer and set it to 400°F (200°C). Let it preheat for about 5 minutes while you prepare the fish.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In one shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk (or water). In another, combine the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Cod Fillets:
Pat the fish dry with paper towels. Dip each fillet first into the egg mixture, then press it into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture until well coated. For extra crispiness, lightly brush the fillets with olive oil or melted butter on both sides.
4. Cook the Cod in the Air Fryer:
Place the coated fillets in a single layer inside the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the cod from the air fryer and transfer to plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like steamed asparagus or a fresh salad.
Can I Use Frozen Cod for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the cod in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before coating to ensure the crust sticks well and cooks evenly.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese. They offer a similar salty, nutty flavor that works well in the breadcrumb coating.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the air fryer for a few minutes to keep the crust crispy.
Can I Use Other Fish Besides Cod?
Absolutely! Mild white fish like haddock, pollock, or tilapia work great with this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time if fillets are thicker or thinner.