Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe
Introduction
This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod is a deliciously easy way to enjoy a flavorful, crunchy fish dinner. With a golden parmesan and panko crust, it offers a satisfying texture without the mess of frying. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it pairs well with fresh salads or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Step 1: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Step 3: In another small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Step 4: Brush a generous layer of the mayo mixture onto one side of each cod fillet. Press the mayo-coated side firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each fillet is evenly covered.
- Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Step 6: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated fillets in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Step 7: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Step 8: Check the internal temperature of the cod; it should reach 145°F (63°C). If needed, air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Step 9: Remove the cod from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the coated fillets with cooking spray before air frying.
- Substitute cod with haddock or pollock if preferred.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavors.
Storage
Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to maintain the crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before seasoning and coating to ensure the crust adheres well and cooks evenly.
What can I serve with crispy parmesan crusted cod?
This dish pairs well with fresh green salads, steamed or roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes for a balanced and satisfying meal.
PrintCrispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod Recipe
This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Cod recipe offers a flavorful and healthy way to enjoy cod fillets with a crunchy Parmesan-panko crust. Perfectly cooked in an air fryer, the cod remains tender inside while the crust is golden and crispy. A tangy mayonnaise and Dijon mustard mixture helps the coating stick and adds extra flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is an excellent choice for a quick, delicious dinner that’s both satisfying and impressive.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Fish and Coating
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor and improve the coating’s adherence.
- Make the Coating: In a shallow bowl, thoroughly combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. This blend will create a flavorful, crunchy crust.
- Prepare the Sauce: In another small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth. This mixture helps the breading stick to the fish and adds a tangy taste.
- Coat the Fillets: Brush a generous layer of the mayo mixture onto one side of each cod fillet. Then press the mayo-coated side firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring even and full coverage of the crust for a crispy texture.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes, which ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Air Fry the Cod: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated fillets in the basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Air fry for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden and crispy and the fish is cooked through.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the cod’s internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If not fully cooked, continue air frying for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cod from the air fryer and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Patting the cod dry before seasoning helps the coating stick better.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure the crust cooks evenly and becomes crispy.
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Adjust the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture according to your taste preference.
- The cod fillets should be similar in size to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer for best results to avoid under or overcooking.
Keywords: crispy cod, air fryer cod, parmesan crusted fish, healthy seafood recipe, quick fish dinner, air fryer recipe, cod fillets, parmesan panko crust

