1. Prep the Cod
Pat cod fillets extremely dry with paper towels. Cut into 4 even portions if needed.
2. Set Up Breading Station
Bowl 1: Flour + pinch of salt
Bowl 2: Beaten egg
Bowl 3: Panko + garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp oil (mix well)
3. Bread the Fish
Dredge each fillet in flour (shake off excess).
Dip in egg (let excess drip off).
Press firmly into panko mixture, coating all sides.
Place on a plate (don’t stack).
4. Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes (optional but helpful).
Lightly spray or brush cod with oil (extra insurance for crispness).
Place in air fryer basket in a single layer (no touching!).
Cook 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Serve Immediately
Squeeze with fresh lemon juice, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions
🥗 Light & fresh: Over arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
🍟 Comfort meal: With air-fried fries or roasted potatoes
🌮 Fish taco style: In warm tortillas with slaw and chipotle mayo
🥣 With dip: Tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or lemon-dill yogurt
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Prep ahead: Bread fish up to 4 hours ahead; refrigerate on a rack.
Leftovers: Store in fridge up to 2 days. Reheat in air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispness.
Freezing? Not recommended—texture suffers.
