- Prepare the Coatings:
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and water to create an egg wash.
- In a third shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried parsley (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Bread the Cod:
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels.
- Dredge each fillet in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured fillets into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Press the fillets into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly. Gently press down to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the Cod:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray.
- Arrange the breaded cod fillets in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not touching. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Lightly spray the tops of the cod fillets with cooking spray.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cod is golden brown, crispy, and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve:
- Remove the cod from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
- Dry the Fish: Patting the cod fillets dry helps the coating adhere better and ensures a crispier result.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating helps achieve an even, crispy texture.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the basket, which can prevent even cooking and crisping.
- Use Fresh Cod: For best results, use fresh or properly thawed cod fillets.
Variations
- Spicy Cod: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Cod: Mix lemon zest and chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
- Parmesan Cod: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese in the breadcrumb mixture for a richer flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
This Crispy Air Fryer Cod recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal with minimal fuss. The air fryer gives the cod a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the fish tender and juicy inside. Enjoy your crispy cod with your favorite sides for a delicious and satisfying meal!