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Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 56 reviews
  • Author: Melanie
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley is a quick and healthy seafood recipe that delivers tender, flaky fish with a crispy exterior. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, paprika, and black pepper, then brightened with fresh lemon juice and parsley, this dish is ideal for a light weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Seasoning

  • 4 (6-ounce) cod fillets
  • 4 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Additional Flavorings and Garnish

  • 4 teaspoons lemon juice
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Lemon wedges, for serving


Instructions

  1. Prepare the fillets: Brush each cod fillet all over with 1 teaspoon of olive oil to lightly coat the surface and help the seasonings stick.
  2. Season the fillets: In a small bowl, combine the salt, garlic powder, paprika, and ground black pepper. Evenly sprinkle this seasoning mix over all the cod fillets to flavor the fish thoroughly.
  3. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and allow it to preheat, ensuring that the fish cooks evenly and develops a crispy exterior.
  4. Cook the first batch: Place two fillets in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook them for 5 minutes, then open the basket to drizzle 1 teaspoon of lemon juice over each fillet. Continue cooking for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the cooked fillets and set aside.
  5. Cook the remaining fillets: Repeat the same cooking process with the other two fillets, maintaining even spacing in the air fryer basket for optimal air circulation.
  6. Garnish and serve: Once all fillets are cooked, top each with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispy texture.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F to ensure the cod is fully cooked.
  • If you like, substitute lemon juice with fresh lemon zest for an additional burst of flavor.
  • Pair this dish with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete, healthy meal.