Crispy Parmesan Crusted Cod in the Air Fryer Recipe
Enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make Crispy Parmesan Crusted Cod, perfectly cooked in the air fryer for a healthy, golden, and flavorful fish dish. This recipe features a crunchy parmesan and panko coating seasoned with lemon pepper, delivering a crispy texture while keeping the cod tender and flaky inside.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 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 reaches the optimal temperature for crisping the crust.
- Dry Fish: Pat your cod filets dry thoroughly with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture helps the breading adhere better and promotes crispiness.
- Season Cod: Season both sides of the cod filets using the lemon pepper seasoning, adjusting the amount according to taste.
- Prepare Dredging Station: Set up two bowls – one with the beaten eggs and the second with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese.
- Bread the Fish: Dip each seasoned cod filet into the beaten eggs to coat completely, then press them firmly into the panko and parmesan mixture to cover all surfaces evenly.
- Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Place the breaded cod filets in a single layer inside the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring there is some space between pieces for even air circulation.
- Apply Olive Oil Spray: Lightly spray the breaded fish with olive oil spray to promote browning and crispness during cooking.
- Cook: Air fry the cod at 400°F for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway if your air fryer requires it, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the crust turns golden and crispy. Cooking time depends on fish thickness and air fryer model.
- Serve: Serve immediately with lemon wedges and tartar sauce on the side for added flavor.
Notes
- Make sure to dry the fish well prior to breading for the best crust adherence.
- Adjust seasoning amount according to personal taste preference.
- If you prefer extra crispy fish, you can spray olive oil halfway through cooking as well.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure doneness and food safety.
- Serving suggestion: pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
