14+ Air Fryer Cod Recipes Crispy Without The Oil

There’s nothing like a crispy, golden fish dinner that reminds me of the Friday nights in my childhood kitchen—my mom would flour and pan-fry cod fillets, their crackling sound drawing us all in, but the splatter and oily cleanup always came with it. These days, I still crave that crunch but want it lighter (and quicker). That’s where my obsession with 14+ Air Fryer Cod Recipes Crispy Without The Oil comes in. Whether it’s a weeknight rush or a cozy, lazy Sunday, firing up the air fryer for cod has become my favorite way to bring back those golden, crispy memories—this time, minus the greasy aftermath.

1. Classic Air Fryer Cod with Panko

Why You’ll Love It:

This is everything you want in a nostalgic, crispy fish dinner but made easier and lighter. It’s my quick fix when cravings hit and cleanup needs to be minimal. Everyone in my house asks for seconds, and leftovers make superb fish tacos next day.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (about 5 oz each)
• 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Olive oil cooking spray
• Lemon wedges and parsley for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Pat cod fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, one with panko mixed with garlic powder and paprika.
3. Dip each fillet into the flour, then egg, then panko, pressing crumbs to stick.
4. Arrange in a single layer in your air fryer basket.
5. Lightly spritz tops with olive oil spray.
6. Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.

Optional Enhancers (include 1–2 per recipe):

Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of grated parmesan to the panko for extra savoriness.

Serving Idea: Serve on warm brioche buns for a crispy fish sandwich night.

2. Air Fryer Lemon Dill Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

For a weeknight meal that feels bright and fresh, this lemon dill cod brings a pop of flavor without any heaviness. It’s my answer to gloomy days when I need food that’s light but not bland.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Brush cod fillets with olive oil and lemon juice.
2. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and dill.
3. Arrange in your air fryer basket.
4. Cook at 390°F for 10–12 minutes until just opaque and flaky.
5. Serve with extra lemon wedges.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of garlic powder to the seasoning for more depth.

Meal Prep Tip: Leftovers keep well and make easy fish salads for lunch.

3. Crunchy Almond-Crusted Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

When I want a nutty, toasty crunch without breading, I reach for this recipe. It’s gluten-free, loaded with protein, and gives cod an irresistible texture—great for guests who want something a little different.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 13 minutes

Total Time: 28 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets
• 3/4 cup finely chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil spray

How to Make It:

1. Season cod lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Beat egg in a shallow bowl.
3. Mix chopped almonds, parmesan, and thyme in another bowl.
4. Dip fillets in egg, then in almond mixture, pressing to adhere.
5. Place in air fryer and mist with oil spray.
6. Air fry at 390°F for 13 minutes, until crust is crisp.

Swap This With That: Use pecans or walnuts if almonds aren’t available.

Best Pairings: Pair with arugula salad and roasted carrots.

4. Southwest Spiced Air Fryer Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

This is my go-to on taco night. The cod gets smoky and flavorful from a quick homemade spice blend—no messy frying, just bold flavors that make every bite lively.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 9 minutes

Total Time: 19 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets, cut into strips
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

How to Make It:

1. Combine spices with olive oil in a bowl.
2. Toss cod strips in the spice mixture.
3. Lay strips in air fryer in a single layer.
4. Air fry at 400°F for 8–9 minutes, shaking halfway.

Serving Idea: Wrap in tortillas with shredded cabbage and sour cream for quick tacos.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcook—cod dries out quickly once opaque.

5. Crispy Parmesan Herb Air Fryer Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

Parmesan and herbs bring out all the best in cod. This recipe is a winner for picky eaters—kids especially love the cheesy crust, and adults appreciate the flavor upgrade.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic salt
• 2 eggs
• Olive oil spray

How to Make It:

1. Whisk eggs in a shallow dish.
2. Mix panko, parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt in another.
3. Dip cod in egg, then breadcrumb mix, pressing firmly.
4. Mist with olive oil and arrange in the air fryer.
5. Air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes, flipping once.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Swap parmesan for finely shredded mozzarella.

Best Pairings: Marinara sauce, garlic bread, Caesar salad.

6. Air Fryer Cod Nuggets

Why You’ll Love It:

Bite-sized cod nuggets are a family favorite—perfect for kids’ dinner or an appetizer platter. I make a big batch for weeknight snacking and they disappear every time.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb cod, cut into chunks
• 1/3 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup seasoned panko
• 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• Olive oil spray

How to Make It:

1. Pat cod chunks dry.
2. Set up dipping stations: flour, beaten eggs, and panko mixed with Old Bay.
3. Coat cod pieces in flour, then egg, then panko.
4. Arrange in air fryer basket and mist with oil spray.
5. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, shaking halfway.

Flavor Boost: Add a dash of cayenne to the panko for heat.

Meal Prep Tip: Cool and freeze for quick kid-friendly meals later.

7. Tempura-Style Air Fryer Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

Whenever I’m missing restaurant-quality fish and chips, this tempura-style cod solves it at home—light, airy, and shatteringly crisp without the deep-fryer fuss.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 13 minutes

Total Time: 33 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets
• 2/3 cup flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup seltzer water, chilled
• Olive oil spray

How to Make It:

1. Pat cod very dry.
2. Mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. Beat egg and seltzer water together, then blend gently into dry mixture.
4. Dip cod in batter.
5. Place in air fryer and mist with oil spray.
6. Air fry at 390°F for 12–13 minutes until golden.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of garlic powder to the batter.

Serving Idea: Classic with fries and homemade slaw.

8. Mediterranean-Inspired Cod with Olives and Tomatoes

Why You’ll Love It:

When I want to enjoy a lighter, coastal meal, this cod with olives and tomatoes hits the spot. It’s colorful, wholesome, and tastes like something you’d find in a bistro by the sea.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 14 minutes

Total Time: 26 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup pitted black olives, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Toss tomatoes, olives, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper together.
2. Arrange cod fillets and veggie mix in air fryer basket.
3. Drizzle a little extra oil on top.
4. Air fry at 380°F for 14 minutes until cod is flaky.

Swap This With That: Use green olives or capers for variety.

Best Pairings: Serve with couscous or crusty bread.

9. Lemon Pepper Gluten-Free Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

Simple and allergy-friendly, this gluten-free lemon pepper cod is crisp thanks to rice flour and a double dip. I whip it up anytime we have guests with food sensitivities—no one misses breadcrumbs.

Serving size: Serves 2

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cod fillets
• 1/3 cup rice flour
• 1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 egg
• Olive oil spray

How to Make It:

1. Mix rice flour, lemon pepper, and salt in a shallow bowl.
2. Dip cod in beaten egg, then rice flour—repeat for double coating.
3. Place in air fryer and spritz lightly with oil spray.
4. Cook at 400°F for 12 minutes until crust is crisp.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Substitute rice flour with cornstarch for an even cheaper option.

Personal Note: My gluten-free friends always ask for this one.

10. Garlic Butter Air Fryer Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

This is what I make when I’m feeling extra cozy—cod fillets kissed with garlic and finished with a pat of melting butter. It’s flaky, flavorful, and pairs well with just about anything.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 8 minutes

Cook Time: 11 minutes

Total Time: 19 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make It:

1. Mix melted butter and garlic.
2. Brush over cod fillets and season with salt and pepper.
3. Air fry at 390°F for 11 minutes, until just cooked.
4. Garnish with parsley.

Flavor Boost: Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika over the fish.

Meal Prep Tip: Leftovers flake beautifully into rice bowls.

11. Spicy Cajun Cod Filets

Why You’ll Love It:

If you like a little heat, these Cajun-spiced fillets are a quick weeknight winner. I love using them for po’ boys or flake them over a salad for lunch the next day.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 7 minutes

Cook Time: 11 minutes

Total Time: 18 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Lemon wedges
• Green onions, chopped

How to Make It:

1. Brush fillets with olive oil.
2. Mix Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika; rub evenly over fillets.
3. Place in the air fryer basket.
4. Cook at 400°F for 11 minutes.
5. Top with green onions and serve with lemon.

Serving Idea: Stuff into toasted hoagie rolls for spicy fish sandwiches.

Best Pairings: Coleslaw, pickles, and potato chips.

12. Pistachio-Crusted Air Fryer Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

Pistachios make this cod feel gourmet and special, but it’s so easy. I save this one for when I want to impress with minimal effort (think: date night or dinner guests).

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 13 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets
• 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup panko
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil spray

How to Make It:

1. Flake pistachios and mix with panko and thyme in a bowl.
2. Beat egg in another bowl.
3. Season cod, dip in egg, then pistachio mix.
4. Arrange in air fryer and spritz with oil spray.
5. Air fry at 380°F for 13 minutes.

Swap This With That: Use almonds for a more budget-friendly nut crust.

Best Pairings: Asparagus, spring salad, lemon risotto.

13. Asian-Inspired Soy Ginger Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

This cod is juicy, savory, and a little tangy from soy and ginger—perfect over rice for a fast, takeout-style dinner at home.

Serving size: Serves 3

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 3 cod fillets
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

How to Make It:

1. Mix soy sauce, ginger, honey, and sesame oil.
2. Brush over cod fillets.
3. Air fry at 390°F for 12 minutes.
4. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds to serve.

Flavor Boost: Add minced garlic to the sauce.

Serving Idea: Serve with steamed bok choy or snap peas.

14. Crispy Coconut Air Fryer Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

When I’m craving tropical flavors, coconut-crusted cod is my little escape. The sweet crunch is an instant crowd-pleaser, especially for guests who love fish but want something new.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 14 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 26 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets
• 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup panko
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Olive oil spray

How to Make It:

1. Whisk eggs in a bowl.
2. Mix coconut, panko, salt, and pepper in another.
3. Dip cod in egg, then coconut mixture, pressing to coat well.
4. Place in air fryer, spray lightly with oil.
5. Air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes, flipping once.

Serving Idea: Dip in sweet chili or mango salsa.

Best Pairings: Jasmine rice and roasted green beans.

15. Everything Bagel Crusted Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

This is my quirky go-to when I want maximal crunch and crave those deli bagel vibes on a fillet of fish. It’s surprisingly addictive, especially tucked into a sandwich or bowl.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup panko
• 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning
• Olive oil spray

How to Make It:

1. Beat eggs in a shallow dish.
2. In another, mix panko and everything bagel seasoning.
3. Dip cod in egg, then crumb mixture.
4. Arrange in air fryer basket, lightly spray with oil.
5. Air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes.

Flavor Boost: Add a little grated lemon zest to the crumb for zip.

Serving Idea: Spread herbed cream cheese on toast and top with crispy cod.

16. Garlic Parmesan Crusted Cod Fingers

Why You’ll Love It:

Snackable and cheesy, these cod fingers disappear from parties and family tables alike. They’re great for entertaining or a cozy movie night with homemade tartar sauce for dipping.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 14 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 24 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb cod, cut into strips
• 3/4 cup panko
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil spray

How to Make It:

1. Set up bowls for beaten egg and for panko, parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning combined.
2. Dip cod strips in egg, then crumb mixture, coating well.
3. Mist with oil and arrange in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Flavor Boost: Mix chopped parsley into the crumbs for color.

Meal Prep Tip: Cook and cool, then freeze for homemade fish sticks later.

FAQ

How do I keep cod fillets crispy in the air fryer without oil?

A light mist of olive oil spray will help crisp things up, but using panko, nut crusts, or tempura-style batters is key for texture. Avoid crowding the basket so hot air circulates and crisps every side.

Can I use frozen cod for these recipes?

Yes, just thaw the cod completely and pat it dry before breading or seasoning. Any moisture left in the fillets will make it harder to get them crispy.

What should I serve with air fryer cod?

Simple sides like roasted potatoes, coleslaw, steamed green beans, or a bright salad work beautifully. For many crispy cod recipes, a good dipping sauce or lemon wedge is a must.

How do I know when the cod is done?

Cod should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout. Most fillets cook through in the air fryer in 10–13 minutes, but thicker pieces might need a minute more. If you’re unsure, a quick temp check (145°F) never hurts.

Conclusion

With these 14+ Air Fryer Cod Recipes Crispy Without The Oil, you can bring the best of classic fish dinners into any busy week, minus the mess and heaviness of deep frying. Whether you’re craving comfort food, family-style nuggets, or an elegant pistachio crust, it’s easy to keep things light, crispy, and flavorful. Let yourself experiment—change up herbs, swap coatings, or try new dips. Cooking cod in the air fryer keeps things simple and helps you build confidence at the stove. Here’s to cozy dinners, clean-up you can handle, and golden, crispy cod that everyone loves.