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Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Cod

This Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Cod is one of those quick and easy dinners that saves the night when life gets wild. It is crispy on the outside, flaky on the inside, and full of that fresh lemony flavor that makes it taste fancy without being hard. Perfect for busy families, picky teens, and anyone who loves easy Air Fryer Fish Recipes that come out amazing every single time.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cod fillets fresh or thawed if frozen
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice plus extra for serving
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels. This helps them get nice and crispy instead of soggy.
  • In a small bowl, mix olive oil or melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon pepper seasoning. Stir it all together and brush over both sides of the fish.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the cod fillets in a single layer inside the basket. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  • Squeeze a bit of lemon juice on top, sprinkle parsley, and serve right away. I like pairing it with rice or roasted veggies.

Notes

Tips

  • Dry your fish well before seasoning. That is the secret to that crispy texture.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give each piece space to cook evenly.
  • Use parchment paper liners if your fish tends to stick.
  • Add a touch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Works with any white fish — like tilapia or haddock!

Variations

  • Garlic Butter Cod: Skip the lemon pepper and use garlic powder, melted butter, and parsley.
  • Parmesan Crusted Cod: Add a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese before air frying for a golden crust.
  • Herb Lemon Cod: Mix in dried dill or thyme for a fresh, herby twist.
  • Cajun Style Cod: Swap lemon pepper for Cajun seasoning if you like a little heat.

Meal Prep & Storage

Make extra! This reheats so well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
If you want to freeze, wrap cooled fillets in parchment and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat until crispy again.