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A delicious plate of Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod

Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod

Tender cod fillets coated in a crispy Parmesan and panko crust, perfectly air-fried for a delicious and healthy meal that's quick to prepare.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Coating Rest Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Seafood
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets cod fillets about 170g each, fresh or thawed, patted dry thoroughly for best crispiness and coating adhesion.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin for best flavor, for brushing cod fillets before coating.
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated preferred for superior taste and texture in the crust.
  • 0.75 cup panko breadcrumbs Japanese-style for extra crunch, essential for a crispy coating.
  • 1 tsp lemon zest from one fresh lemon, adds a bright, zesty aroma to the coating.
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder ensure it's not garlic salt to control sodium levels and avoid overpowering the lemon.
  • 1 tsp Salt fine sea salt works best for even seasoning; adjust to your taste preference.
  • 0.5 tsp Freshly ground black pepper freshly ground for maximum flavor; adjust to your taste.
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted, for a rich and glossy finishing drizzle.
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped, for a vibrant garnish and fresh herby note.
  • 1 whole lemon cut into wedges for serving, offers an essential burst of fresh citrus.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Shallow Dish
  • Pastry Brush
  • Thin Spatula
  • Microwave-safe Bowl

Method
 

  1. Remove cod fillets from the fridge 10 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature.
  2. Pat each fillet dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove all surface moisture.
  3. Brush both sides of each fillet with olive oil using a pastry brush or your fingers.
  4. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  1. In a shallow dish (pie plate works great), combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and garlic powder.
  2. Mix thoroughly with a fork until lemon zest is evenly distributed throughout.
  3. Taste a small pinch and adjust salt if needed.
  1. Place one oiled fillet in the Parmesan mixture and press down firmly with your palm.
  2. Flip and press the other side, using fingertips to pat extra coating onto any bare spots.
  3. Transfer coated fillet to a clean plate and repeat with remaining fillets.
  4. Let coated fillets rest for 5 minutes to allow coating to set.
  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
  2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  3. Arrange coated fillets in a single layer with space between each (cook in batches if needed).
  4. Air fry for 6 minutes, then carefully flip each fillet with a thin spatula.
  5. Continue cooking for 4-5 minutes until coating is deep golden and fish reaches 145°F internal temperature.
  1. While cod finishes cooking, melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl and stir in a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
  2. Remove fillets from air fryer and let rest on serving platter for 2 minutes.
  3. Drizzle lemon butter over each fillet with a spoon.
  4. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and arrange lemon wedges around the platter.
  5. Serve immediately.

Notes

Feel free to adjust seasoning to your preference. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.