Can I use frozen cod?

Yes—just thaw it completely first and pat it very dry. Frozen fish holds a lot of moisture, and we’re not letting moisture ruin our crispy dreams.

What can I substitute for cod?

Tilapia works great, and this method also plays nicely with other white fish. You can even use it for perch fish recipes air fryer style if that’s what you’ve got.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days .

How do I reheat it so it stays crispy?

Air fryer is your best friend again: 350°F for 3–5 minutes . Microwave works in an emergency, but the coating will soften—still tasty, just less crunchy.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture may change slightly, but you’ll still get that satisfying crunch.

Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Cod: Irresistible 12-Min Win

Description

Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Cod is a quick, golden, and flaky fish dinner with a crunchy panko-Parmesan crust—perfect for busy weeknights and picky eaters alike.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil or mayonnaise
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Lemon wedges, for serving

Optional Sauce:

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

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Instructions

Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
In a shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and paprika.
Lightly brush each fillet with olive oil or mayonnaise. Press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
Place the coated cod fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overlap.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Serve immediately with parsley and lemon wedges.

Optional Sauce: Stir mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice together until smooth. Serve on the side.

Notes

Dry fish is key for maximum crispiness.

Tilapia or other mild white fish can be substituted.

For best texture, reheat leftovers in the air fryer, not the microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cod fillet
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 520 mg
Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg