Crispy Coastal Air Fryer Fish
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Tartar sauce or garlic aioli for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels on both sides. This is the most important step for getting a crispy coating.
- Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and rub it in gently on both sides to coat evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each fillet and press it in lightly.
- In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and chopped parsley. Press each seasoned fillet into the breadcrumb mixture on both sides to form an even light coating.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the fillets in a single layer without crowding. Cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the coating is golden brown.
- Remove from the air fryer and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets immediately. Serve hot.
Notes
Always pat fish completely dry before coating — any surface moisture will steam the fish instead of crisping it, and the breadcrumb coating won't stick properly. DO NOT skip preheating the air fryer.