Crispy & Flaky Air Fryer Cod

If you’ve ever wanted a healthy seafood dinner that feels effortless but tastes restaurant-worthy, this air fryer cod is about to become your new favorite. It’s crisp on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, and ready in just eight minutes—no oven preheating, no messy stovetop splatter, and no stress.

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The Story Behind This Air Fryer Cod

I try to cook fish at least once a week, but for the longest time, it felt like more effort than it was worth. Turning on the oven for a single protein? Cleaning oil splatters from the stove? Not exactly appealing after a long day. I started experimenting with cod in the air fryer because I wanted a simple, mess-free way to get flaky fish without sacrificing texture or flavor.

After a few test rounds (and a couple slightly overcooked fillets), I found the sweet spot. The air fryer gave me exactly what I was craving: golden, lightly crisp edges with a moist, melt-in-your-mouth center. It quickly replaced air fryer halibut as one of my go-to dinners, especially when the weather turns cooler and grilling is officially off the table.

What really sold me, though, was the reaction from my toughest critics. Cod is mild and never fishy, which makes it perfect for anyone easing into seafood. Even my self-proclaimed “non-fish eaters” (cough my sister and partner cough) absolutely love this recipe—and now it’s firmly in our weeknight rotation.

Ingredients

Here are a few notes on the key ingredients that make this air fryer cod shine. You’ll find the full measurements in the recipe card below.

• Cod fillets (cod loin): I’ve found that fresh cod from a fishmonger gives the best texture because it’s usually sliced against the grain. Grocery store fillets work, but they’re sometimes cut incorrectly, which can make the fish less flaky.
  Substitution tip: Frozen cod works beautifully—just pat off excess ice and add 2–3 extra minutes of cook time.
• Olive oil: This small amount of oil helps the exterior crisp while keeping the inside tender.
• Lemon juice: My secret for this is lemon juice—it brightens the fish and balances its mild flavor. Fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch. Save a few lemon slices for serving.
• Spices: A simple blend of salt, pepper, dried thyme, oregano, paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder enhances the cod without overpowering it. You’re going to love how flavorful this is with such minimal effort.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Cod in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Prep the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial—dry fish equals crisp edges, not steam.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. In another bowl, mix all the spices until combined.

Step 2: Season Generously

Brush the cod fillets on all sides with the lemon-oil mixture. Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over the fish, pressing it in gently so it sticks.

Step 3: Air Fry

Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the seasoned cod in a single layer, leaving space between fillets.
Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes, or until the fish is golden and flakes easily.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the cod to a serving plate, add fresh lemon slices, and serve immediately while it’s hot and flaky.

Why This Recipe Works

The air fryer circulates hot air evenly around the cod, cooking it quickly while sealing in moisture. The olive oil encourages browning, while the lemon juice keeps the fish tender and bright. Because cod is lean, it benefits from fast, high-heat cooking—exactly what the air fryer does best.

Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cod

• Check for doneness: Cod is fully cooked at 145°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, the fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
• Use uniform fillets: Similar thickness ensures even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Airflow is key for crisp edges.

Seasoning Variations to Try

One of the things I love most about this air fryer cod is how easy it is to change up the flavor without changing the method. Once you’ve made it once, you can start playing around with seasonings depending on what you’re in the mood for—or what’s already in your pantry.

• Old Bay Seasoning: A classic for a reason. This gives the cod a slightly salty, savory flavor with subtle warmth. I’ve found this works especially well if you’re serving the fish with potatoes or corn.
• Lemon Pepper: If you love bright, citrusy flavors, this is a great option. Swap the spice mix for lemon pepper seasoning and finish with fresh lemon juice for a clean, fresh taste.
• Taco Seasoning: This is my go-to when I plan to use the cod in tacos or bowls. It adds warmth and depth without overpowering the fish. Serve with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
• Garlic Parmesan Style: Skip the chili powder and paprika, and add extra garlic powder. After air frying, sprinkle with finely grated Parmesan while the cod is still hot so it melts slightly on top.
• Italian-Inspired: Use Italian seasoning in place of the dried thyme and oregano, then finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
• Spicy Cajun: Add Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne and smoked paprika for a little heat. This variation is great if you like bold flavors but still want the cod to stay tender.

My tip here is to keep the oil and lemon juice the same and simply swap the seasoning blend. That way, you get a new flavor every time without reworking the recipe.

How to Store Leftover Air Fryer Cod

Allow the cod to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I’ve found that storing the fillets in a single layer helps them retain their texture better than stacking them

How to Reheat Air Fryer Cod

The best way to reheat cod is back in the air fryer. Set it to 350°F and reheat for 2–3 minutes, just until warmed through. This helps revive the crisp edges without drying out the fish.

If you’re in a pinch, you can use the microwave, but keep the power low and heat in short intervals. Cod is delicate, and overheating it will make it rubbery.

How to Freeze Air Fryer Cod

Cooked air fryer cod can be frozen for short-term storage. Allow it to cool fully, then wrap and freeze for up to one month for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when air fryer cod is fully cooked?

Cod is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, I’ve found that the easiest way to tell is by gently pressing a fork into the thickest part—if it flakes easily and looks completely white and opaque, it’s ready.

Can I use frozen cod in the air fryer?

Yes, absolutely. Frozen cod works very well in the air fryer. There’s no need to fully thaw it—just pat off any excess ice before seasoning. You’ll want to add 2–3 extra minutes to the cooking time to make sure it cooks through evenly.

Why is my cod dry?

Dry cod is usually a sign of overcooking. Because cod is lean, it cooks quickly and doesn’t need much time. I always recommend checking it right at the 8-minute mark and removing it as soon as it flakes. Using a small amount of oil also helps keep it tender.

Do I need to flip the cod while air frying?

No flipping required. One of the things I love most about this recipe is how hands-off it is. As long as the fillets aren’t overcrowded, the air fryer circulates heat evenly and cooks both sides beautifully.

What temperature should I air fry cod at?

I’ve found that 400°F is the sweet spot. It’s hot enough to give you lightly crisp edges while keeping the inside moist and flaky.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?

Good news—this air fryer cod is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as written. Just double-check any pre-made seasoning blends if you’re swapping those in.

What should I serve with air fryer cod?

This cod pairs well with just about anything. I love serving it with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, rice, or air fryer potatoes. The mild flavor also makes it perfect for fish tacos or grain bowls.