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Ultimate Crispy Air Fryer Cod with Panko and Parmesan Crust

A close-up of a perfectly cooked Air Fryer Crispy Cod fillet with golden breading and parsley.

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Make perfectly crispy cod fillets in your air fryer using a simple panko and Parmesan coating. This recipe cooks fast and avoids dry fish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (6 ounce) cod fillets, about 1 inch thick
  • 1 large egg white
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray (oil-based)

Instructions

  1. Pat the cod fillets completely dry using paper towels. This step helps the coating stick and promotes crispiness.
  2. In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg white and water until slightly frothy.
  3. In a separate shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Dip each cod fillet first into the egg white mixture, letting excess drip off.
  5. Press the fillet firmly into the panko mixture to coat both sides evenly. Press the coating on so it adheres well.
  6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated fillets in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
  7. Spray the tops of the coated fillets lightly with cooking spray.
  8. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  9. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the basket bottom with oil before placing the fish in.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to maintain airflow.
  • If your fillets are thinner than 1 inch, reduce the cooking time by 1 to 2 minutes.

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