Crispy Parmesan Crusted Cod in the Air Fryer Recipe
This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Cod recipe elevates simple cod fillets with a golden, crunchy parmesan and panko breadcrumb coating, all achieved effortlessly in the air fryer. Perfectly seasoned with lemon pepper and finished with a light spray of olive oil, this dish offers flavorful, tender fish with minimal oil and maximum crispiness in just 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Fish and Seasoning
- 1 Pound cod filets (fresh or defrosted if frozen)
- 1 Tsp lemon pepper seasoning (with salt, or more to taste)
Breading
- 2 Large eggs (beaten)
- ¾ Cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ Cup grated parmesan cheese
Other
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F to ensure it is hot and ready for crisping the fish.
- Dry Fish: Pat your cod filets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps the breading adhere better.
- Season Fish: Season both sides of the dried cod filets evenly with the lemon pepper seasoning to add flavor.
- Prepare Dredging Station: Set up two bowls — one with the beaten eggs and another with the mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese.
- Bread the Fish: Dip each seasoned cod filet into the beaten eggs to coat thoroughly, then press into the panko and parmesan mixture. Use your hands to firmly press the breading onto the fish to ensure it sticks well.
- Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Place the breaded cod filets in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece to allow for even air flow and crisping.
- Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray the breaded fish with olive oil to help promote a crispy, golden crust during cooking.
- Air Fry the Cod: Cook the fillets on the air fry setting at 400°F for 8-12 minutes, depending on thickness and air fryer model, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the crust is crispy and golden.
- Serve: Serve the crispy parmesan crusted cod warm with lemon wedges and tartar sauce on the side if desired for a complete and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Patting the fish dry is essential for the breading to stick properly.
- Adjust seasoning amounts to taste, especially if your lemon pepper already contains salt.
- Cooking time may vary slightly based on fish thickness and air fryer brand, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- For extra crispiness, flip the fish halfway through cooking.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
