If you’re looking for a simple, healthy, and delicious weeknight dinner, this air fryer cod recipe is just what you need. It’s easy to make, tender, and packed with flavor.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

My Favorite Way to Cook Cod in the Air Fryer

I first made this air fryer cod during Lent when I wanted a lighter alternative to traditional battered fish fry. Since I had some cod in the fridge and had successfully air-fried other fish before, I figured cod would work well too. And it did!

This recipe is designed to be as simple as possible. There’s no need for breading—just toss the fillets with seasonings and air fry them. With busy schedules, having quick and easy meals like this by the end of the week is a lifesaver.

It has now become a staple in our home, not only for Lent but all year round because it’s so easy to prepare.

If you love air fryer seafood recipes, you should also check out my air fryer tilapia, fish sticks in the air fryer, frozen cod in the air fryer, air fryer flounder, air fryer salmon, and air fryer shrimp recipes.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Cod

Cod fillets – You can also use cod loins; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Paprika

Salt and pepper

Garlic powder

Olive oil

Lemon juice – Fresh or bottled both work well.

How to Cook Cod in the Air Fryer

A complete printable version of this recipe with exact ingredient measurements is available at the bottom of this post.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Use a paper towel to pat the cod fillets dry to remove excess moisture.

Step 2: Coat the Fillets

In a small bowl, mix the olive oil and lemon juice. Brush each side of the cod fillets with this mixture. Use any leftover oil to lightly coat the air fryer basket or tray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Season the Fish

Combine all the seasonings in a small dish, then rub them onto both sides of the fillets.

Step 4: Air Fry the Cod

Place the fillets in the air fryer basket and cook for about 8 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the fish has reached an internal temperature of 145°F.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Cod

Avoid flipping the fish. Uncooked cod is delicate and can stick to the basket.

Use parchment rounds, silicone liners, or non-stick spray. These can help prevent sticking.

Cook to the correct temperature. Remove the cod from the air fryer as soon as it reaches 145°F and flakes easily to prevent it from drying out.

Adjust cooking time for thicker fillets. Larger cod fillets may take 10 to 13 minutes to fully cook.

Choose your preferred type of cod. Atlantic cod, wild Alaskan cod, and blue cod all work great in this recipe.

Store leftovers properly. Keep any remaining fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Air Fryer Cod Variations

Try Old Bay seasoning for a different flavor profile.

Add a crispy coating by dipping fillets in butter and then panko breadcrumbs before air frying.

Use blackened seasoning for a spicy, Cajun-style dish.

Opt for a lemon-dill-garlic seasoning for a fresh, light option.

Adjust cooking time for cod loins. If using cod loins instead of fillets, cook them at 370°F for about 10 minutes since they’re typically thicker.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Cod

For a quick and easy meal, serve the cod with tartar sauce, air fryer tater tots, air fryer asparagus, and Texas toast cooked in the air fryer.

If you want a more traditional fish fry experience, pair it with air fryer French fries and coleslaw. Honestly, any type of fries and a fresh salad make great accompaniments to this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Do I Know When the Cod is Done Cooking?

I use a fork to flake off a small piece from the edge of the fillet. If it flakes easily, it’s done. If not, I cook it for another 1-2 minutes and check again.

A meat thermometer is also useful. Cod is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 145°F at its thickest point.

How Long Does It Take to Cook Cod in the Air Fryer?

Cod takes just 8 minutes to cook in a preheated air fryer at 350°F.

How Do I Cook Frozen Cod in the Air Fryer?

I often make this recipe using frozen cod fillets. While fresh fish is always ideal, I find that air frying frozen fillets at 350°F for 4 minutes, adding the oil and seasonings, then increasing the temperature to 370°F and cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes works well.

How Do I Reheat Cod in the Air Fryer?

Leftovers can be reheated in a preheated air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes.