Crispy on the edges, wonderfully tender inside, and bursting with fresh aromatic flavor, this Air Fryer Cod with Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce transforms simple

Equipment

• Air Fryer — Circulates dry, high-velocity heat to produce flaky, golden fillets in minutes without deep frying.
• Small Saucepan — Gently controls heat to emulsify cream, butter, and aromatics into a smooth, glossy sauce.
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer — Takes the guesswork out of doneness, ensuring your fish hits an exact, juicy 145°F (63°C).
• Silicone Spatula — Carefully lifts delicate cooked fish fillets from the basket without breaking them apart.

Ingredients

• 2 fresh cod fillets (approx. 6 oz / 170g each; pat completely dry with paper towels)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves fresh garlic (minced finely)
• ⅓ cup heavy whipping cream (full-fat ensures a stable sauce)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh dill (finely chopped; fresh parsley works well as a substitute)
• 1 tbsp fresh chives (minced)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep the Cod: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Thoroughly pat both sides of the cod fillets dry using paper towels to remove all surface moisture.
2. Season the Fish: Rub the cod fillets with olive oil. In a small ramekin, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper; evenly coat all sides of the fillets with the spice blend.
3. Air Fry to Perfection: Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the seasoned cod fillets in a single layer with space between them. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8 to 10 minutes (depending on thickness) until the exterior is lightly golden, the fish flakes effortlessly with a fork, and an internal meat thermometer reads 145°F (63°C).
4. Sauté the Garlic: While the cod cooks, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for about 60 seconds until fragrant and translucent, making sure not to brown or burn the garlic.
5. Simmer the Cream: Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring the mixture to a gentle, low simmer (small bubbles around the edges). Let it reduce slightly for 2 to 3 minutes until it lightly coats the back of a spoon.
6. Finish with Herbs & Citrus: Remove the pan from the heat. Whisk in the fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, and chives, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
7. Plate & Serve: Carefully transfer the air-fried cod fillets to serving plates using a silicone spatula. Spoon the warm creamy garlic herb sauce generously over the top and garnish with an extra sprig of dill and a fresh lemon wedge.

Nutrition

Calories: 340 kcal · Protein: 34 g · Fat: s: 22 g Cholesterol: 115 mg · Carbohydrates: 2.5 g · Fiber: 0.6 g · Sugar: 1.1 g · Sodium: 680 mg