This Easy Air Fryer Cod is flaky, tender, and seasoned with a zesty lemon-garlic rub for incredible flavor in every bite. Cooked to perfection in minutes, this simple recipe makes a delicious dinner the whole family will love.

Jump to:

• ❤️ Why You'll Love This Easy Air Fryer Cod Recipe
• 🛒 Ingredients for Air Fryer Cod
• 🔪 How to Make Cod in the Air Fryer
• 💡 Tips for Making Cod in the Air Fryer
• ☑️ Storage Instructions
• 🍴 What to Serve with Lemon Garlic Cod
• 🔄 Substitutions and Additions
• How Do I Know When the Cod is Done Cooking?
• Why is My Cod Sticking to the Air Fryer Basket?
• Can I Make This With Other Types of Fish?
• Why is My Cod is Too Dry?
• 🍽️ More Air Fryer Recipes

❤️ Why You'll Love This Easy Air Fryer Cod Recipe

• Tender flaky cod
• Seasoned with a lemony paprika rub
• Air fried to perfection
• Easy to make using a handful of healthy ingredients
• Made in under 15 minutes from start to finish

I love making this Easy Air Fryer Cod whenever I need a quick, light, and flavorful meal. The fish turns out perfectly flaky with a delicious golden exterior, and the air fryer does most of the work. With just a handful of ingredients, you get restaurant-quality cod right at home.

And let’s talk about the flavor! Fresh lemon juice, garlic, and smoked paprika come together to make this dish absolutely irresistible. Whether you serve it with a side of roasted veggies or flake it over a fresh salad, this air-fried cod is a winner every time. Plus, it’s healthy, simple, and ready in under 15 minutes.

If you love this recipe and want more air fryer seafood options, be sure to check out my Air Fryer Pesto Salmon and Air Fryer Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp.

🛒 Ingredients for Air Fryer Cod

• Cod
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic salt
• Ground black pepper

*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

🥣 Recommended Tools

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

🔪 How to Make Cod in the Air Fryer

Preheat air fryer for 5 minutes. 

Dry your pieces of cod using paper towels, then set aside.

Add the olive oil, lemon juice, grated garlic, smoked paprika, garlic salt and pepper to a small mixing bowl.

Whisk until combined, then brush over all sides of each piece of cod.

Place the cod in your air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between the pieces to allow the air to circulate around them.

Air fry @ 400°F for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through. 

Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your cod.

💡 Tips for Making Cod in the Air Fryer

• When buying cod, look for firm, fresh fillets with no fishy smell. If using frozen cod, choose individually quick-frozen fillets for the best quality.

• Pat the cod dry before seasoning to help the spices stick and prevent excess moisture.

• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, giving the fillets space so they cook evenly.

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. The bottled stuff just can’t compare.

• Preheat your air fryer so the filets immediately start cooking at the desired temperature.

• Be aware that you may have to adjust cooking time based on the thickness of your fillets. Thicker pieces may need an extra minute or two.

☑️ Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store leftover cod in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked cod for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

🍴 What to Serve with Lemon Garlic Cod

• Garlic Potatoes with Green Beans: A quick and easy side that complements the cod.
• Coconut Cauliflower Rice: A light and healthy low-carb option.
• Shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad: Fresh, crispy, and full of flavor.
• Air Fryer Sweet Potato: A fun, crispy side dish.
• Sauteed Asparagus:  A simple, fresh and delicious side. 

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🔄 Substitutions and Additions

• Crispy cod: Coat the cod fillets with panko bread crumbs for a crunchy texture.

• Other seasonings: Swap smoked paprika for Old Bay, Cajun seasoning, or garlic powder for a new twist.

• Sauce: Drizzle the fish with Yum Yum Sauce, Homemade Pesto or a decadent Beurre blanc sauce.

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

• Frozen cod: Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes and make sure to pat the fillets dry after thawing.

• Top with fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or dill adds freshness and color.

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How Do I Know When the Cod is Done Cooking?

Cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Why is My Cod Sticking to the Air Fryer Basket?

Try using parchment paper or lightly spraying the basket with oil before placing the fish inside.

Can I Make This With Other Types of Fish?

Absolutely! Air fryer tilapia, salmon, and haddock all work well with this method.

Why is My Cod is Too Dry?

Overcooking can dry out the fish. Check for doneness at the 8-minute mark and remove once it flakes easily.

🍽️ More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Frozen Shrimp
• Air Fryer Cauliflower
• Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
• Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
• Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Wings
• Air Fryer Cod
• Air Fryer Turkey Breast