Air Fryer Blackened Cod

Get ready for a bold and flavorful seafood dish with Air Fryer Blackened Cod! This recipe delivers perfectly flaky cod coated in a smoky, spicy blackened seasoning, all crisped to perfection in the air fryer. It’s an easy, healthy, and protein-packed meal that comes together in minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or a quick seafood fix!

Air Fryer Blackened Cod is a flavorful, protein-packed meal that’s quick and easy to make. Coated in bold blackening seasoning, the cod fillets develop a crispy, smoky crust while staying tender and flaky inside. Cooking in the air fryer eliminates the need for excess oil, making this a healthier alternative to traditional pan-frying. Whether served with a fresh salad, rice, or roasted veggies, this blackened cod is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 15 minutes.
• Bold Flavor – Smoky, spicy, and perfectly seasoned.
• Crispy Texture – Air fryer gives a perfect crust.
• Versatile Dish – Pairs well with many sides.

Ingredients Needed

• Cod fillets – Fresh, flaky white fish
• Olive oil – Helps seasoning stick
• Blackened seasoning – Bold, smoky spice mix
• Onion powder – Adds savory sweetness
• Garlic powder – Rich, aromatic flavor
• Smoked paprika – Deep, smoky warmth
• Thyme – Earthy and fragrant
• Oregano – Herbal, slightly peppery taste
• Kosher salt – Enhances overall flavor
• Black pepper – Mild heat and depth
• Cayenne pepper – Spicy kick, optional

How To Make Air Fryer Blackened Cod

Prepare the cod – Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Lightly coat both sides with olive oil to help the seasoning stick.

Season generously – In a small bowl, mix blackened seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Evenly coat both sides of the fillets with the seasoning blend.

Preheat the air fryer – Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for a couple of minutes.

Cook the cod – Place the seasoned fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overlapping. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve and enjoy – Carefully remove the blackened cod from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute. Serve hot with your favorite sides like coleslaw, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Air Fryer Blackened Cod Recipe Tips

• Pat Dry the Cod: Before seasoning, make sure to pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a crispy texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: For a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning. For a milder version, reduce it or skip entirely.
• Olive Oil for Crispiness: Lightly coat the cod fillets with olive oil before adding the seasoning. This helps create a crispy crust while keeping the fish moist inside.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fryers cook best when there’s space around the food. Make sure to place the fillets in a single layer in the basket to allow for even air circulation.
• Check for Doneness: Cod cooks quickly, so check the internal temperature. It should reach 145°F (63°C) and easily flake with a fork.
• Serve with Sides: Serve your blackened cod with a refreshing salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice for a balanced meal.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to experiment by adding garlic powder, paprika, or lemon zest to your blackened seasoning mix to personalize the flavor!

Storing

• Storing: Allow the Air Fryer Blackened Cod to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the cod back in the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat in a hot skillet for a few minutes on each side.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Blackened Cod

Air Fryer Blackened Cod pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement its bold, spicy flavor. Serve it alongside a fresh salad with greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the heat, or opt for roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a nutritious, flavorful side. You could also pair it with a creamy side like mashed potatoes or a tangy coleslaw for some contrast. For a light and satisfying meal, try adding a grain such as quinoa, couscous, or a lemony rice pilaf to round out the dish.

Air Fryer Blackened Cod Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen cod, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. Thawing will ensure even cooking and better texture.

How do I make the blackened seasoning? A basic blackened seasoning includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the amount of cayenne to your spice preference.

Can I make this recipe with other types of fish? Yes, you can use other mild, flaky fish like tilapia, haddock, or snapper. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the thickness of the fillets.

How do I keep the cod from sticking to the air fryer basket? Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush the fillets with olive oil before cooking to prevent sticking.

Can I make this recipe spicier? Absolutely! To increase the spice, add more cayenne pepper or even a pinch of chili flakes to the seasoning mix.

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