Flawless Air Fryer Lemon Herb Cod
Achieve a restaurant-quality meal in just 15 minutes with this air fryer cod recipe. A simple lemon-herb paste creates a flavorful crust, locking in moisture for an impossibly flaky and tender fish that's both elegant and effortless.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- small mixing bowl
- Paper towels
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Small Spatula or Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 fresh lemon, zested and juiced separately
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped, plus more for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Cooking oil spray optional, for the basket
Instructions
- Pat the cod fillets completely dry with a paper towel. A dry surface is critical for getting a golden-brown finish. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, finely chopped parsley, finely chopped dill, lemon zest, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir everything together until it forms a thick, fragrant paste.
- Using a spoon or a small spatula, spread the lemon herb paste evenly over the top and sides of each cod fillet, ensuring a generous coating.
- Lightly spray the preheated air fryer basket with cooking oil or line it with perforated parchment paper. Carefully place the seasoned cod fillets in the basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overlapping.
- Air fry for 8-12 minutes. The exact time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. The cod is done when it's opaque and flakes easily with a fork. There is no need to flip the fish during cooking.
- Carefully remove the cod from the air fryer basket. Squeeze the juice from the remaining lemon half over the hot fillets to brighten the flavors.
- Garnish with a little extra fresh parsley or dill if desired, and serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Notes
Pro Tips: For the best texture, ensure the fish is patted completely dry before seasoning. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to allow for proper air circulation. Always preheat the air fryer for even cooking.
Variations: For a crispier crust, add 1 tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese to the herb paste. For a Mediterranean twist, top the cooked fish with chopped Kalamata olives and capers.
Substitutions: Any firm, flaky white fish like haddock or halibut works well. Fresh thyme or chives can be used in place of dill. Avocado oil is a great substitute for olive oil.
Variations: For a crispier crust, add 1 tablespoon of panko breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese to the herb paste. For a Mediterranean twist, top the cooked fish with chopped Kalamata olives and capers.
Substitutions: Any firm, flaky white fish like haddock or halibut works well. Fresh thyme or chives can be used in place of dill. Avocado oil is a great substitute for olive oil.