Name: Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 21 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

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Introduction

This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod is a delightful combination of tender fish and a crunchy, flavorful crust. The Parmesan and panko coating creates a golden, savory shell, while a hint of lemon zest brightens every bite. It’s an easy, elegant meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Two pieces of golden-brown crispy fried fish fillets sit on a dark wooden board, each topped with finely chopped bright green parsley. The fish's crust is crunchy with a mix of deep amber and light golden hues, contrasting with the soft white fish underneath. Behind the fillets, there are two lemon wedges with a pale yellow rind and juicy inner flesh. Some extra green parsley bits are scattered around the board, all placed on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Lightly brush each fillet with olive oil, then season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: In a shallow dish, combine grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to distribute evenly.
Step 3: Press each cod fillet into the Parmesan-panko mixture, ensuring the coating adheres firmly to the fish for an even crust.
Step 4: Place the coated fillets on a plate and let them rest for 3–5 minutes to help the crumbs bind to the fish.
Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
Step 6: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the fillets in a single layer without crowding, to avoid steaming the crust.
Step 7: Air fry the cod for 6 minutes. Then carefully flip each fillet with a spatula and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily, and the crust is golden brown.
Step 8: While the cod rests for 2 minutes, whisk the melted butter with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Drizzle this lemon butter over the fillets and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or thyme to the Parmesan-panko mixture.
Use gluten-free panko if you need a gluten-free crust option.
If you don’t have an air fryer, bake coated fillets in a preheated 425°F oven on a greased baking sheet for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Try drizzling a little honey or a spicy aioli on the side for a different twist.

Storage

Store any leftover cooked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a preheated 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes or until heated through, to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving, which can make the coating soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows two pieces of golden brown, crispy fried fish fillets lying next to each other on a dark wooden board. Each fillet has a crunchy textured crust and is topped with finely chopped green herbs. The inside of the fish is white and flaky, visible at the edges. Behind the fish, there are two bright yellow lemon slices standing upright, adding a fresh look. More chopped green herbs are scattered around the board, enhancing the color contrast. The background surface has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, firm white fish like haddock, pollock, or tilapia work well with this Parmesan-panko crust and air fryer method.

How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The fish should be opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork. Cooking times may vary slightly based on thickness, so check near the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.