Equipment

• Air Fryer: Basket-style or oven-style air fryer (4-quart capacity or larger).
• Paper Towels: Essential for drying the fish prior to seasoning.
• Meat Thermometer: Optional, but useful to verify internal temperature reached 145°F (63°C).
• Silicone Tongs or Spatula: To remove delicate fish fillets without breaking them.

Ingredients

For the Cod Fillets

• Cod Fillets: 4 wild-caught or sustainably farmed cod fillets (about 5 to 6 ounces each, thawed and patted dry).
• Olive Oil or Avocado Oil Spray: 1.5 tablespoons (or high-heat cooking spray) to coat the fish and basket.

For the Seasoning Blend

• Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon (adds rich color and a subtle smoky undertone)
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Dried Oregano or Dried Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
• Sea Salt: 3/4 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
• Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Cayenne Pepper: 1/8 teaspoon (optional, for a tiny hint of heat)

For Serving

• Fresh Lemon Wedges: 1 whole lemon sliced into quarters for squeezing right before eating.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped for garnish.

Instructions

1. Follow these steps for optimal texture and flavor.
2. If using frozen cod, thaw the fillets overnight in the refrigerator or sealed in cold water. Remove fillets from packaging and place them on a cutting board lined with paper towels. Pat the cod completely dry on all sides with additional paper towels. Eliminating excess surface moisture is the single most important step for getting a crisp crust instead of steamed fish.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. Preheating ensures an immediate sear when the fillets touch the basket, keeping the interior juicy.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper until evenly blended.
5. Lightly brush or spray both sides of each cod fillet with olive oil. Generously sprinkle the spice blend over the fillets, gently pressing the seasoning into the surface so it adheres well.
6. Lightly spray the bottom of the preheated air fryer basket with olive oil or avocado oil spray. Place the seasoned cod fillets in a single layer, ensuring at least 1/2 inch of space between each fillet for proper air circulation.
7. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes . Thicker fillets (over 1 inch) may require 12–14 minutes, while thinner cuts finish in around 8–9 minutes. You do not need to flip the cod halfway through.
8. The cod is done when the flesh turns opaque, flakes easily with a fork, or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) on an instant-read thermometer. Carefully transfer the fillets to a serving plate using a thin spatula. Rest for 2 minutes, then finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Calories: 185 kcal — · Protein: 31.5 g 63% · Fat: 5.5 g 7% · Carbohydrates: 1.2 g 0% Dietary · Saturated Fat: 0.8 g 4% · Fiber: 0.4 g 1% · Sugar: 0.1 g — · Sodium: 490 mg 21%