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Crispy air fryer cod fillets served with lemon and herbs

Crispy Air Fryer Cod Fillets

Fast and easy air fryer cod fillets with a smoky paprika flavor, crispy edges, and flaky center, finished with a bright lemon drizzle.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 fillets cod fillets (6 oz each) fresh or thawed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for brushing
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds smoky flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt reduce for low sodium
  • 1 piece lemon, juiced and sliced for finishing
  • cooking spray for greasing the air fryer basket
  • fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and preheat for 3 minutes.
  2. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, stir together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
  4. Brush the cod with olive oil, then rub the seasoning mix evenly over the top and sides.
  5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the fillets in a single layer.
Cooking
  1. Air fry the cod for 10–12 minutes, until golden and flaky, checking for doneness at 145°F.
Finishing
  1. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice, add lemon slices, and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Pat the fish dry for better browning, use a thin layer of seasoning, and avoid overcrowding the basket during cooking. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for best texture.