A perfectly cooked air fryer cod loin on a white plate with a slice of lemon
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Emma Lawson | 
15.07.2025

Air Fryer Cod Loin Recipe

This air fryer cod loin recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal in no time. Using fresh cod loin cooked in the air fryer with a hint of lemon and garlic, this dish is not only easy to make but bursting with flavour. Pat your cod dry, spray with light olive oil, and season to perfection for a flaky texture. Ideal for a quick air fryer cod dinner or as part of a larger meal.
Prep Time
5m
Cook
10m
Total Time
15m
Yield
serves 4
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Dinner
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White Fish

Essential Ingredients for Cod Loin

What You’ll Need for Air Fryer Cod

  • 4 cod loins
  • 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Light olive oil spray
  • Salt and pepper

Optional Herb Garnish

Top your air fryer cod with fresh parsley or dill before serving. The fresh herbs add an aromatic dimension and a pop of colour. Parsley complements the lemony zing and dill provides a unique twist.

Why Pat Cod Dry?

Ensuring the cod is dry before cooking enables the light olive oil spray and seasonings to adhere better, promoting even browning. A dry surface also helps create that desired flaky texture which makes this air fryer cod with lemon a standout dish.

Steps to Cook Cod Loin in Air Fryer

These easy steps will ensure your cod loin is cooked to perfection every time.

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C.
  2. Pat the cod loins dry with paper towels.
  3. Spritz with light olive oil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Place in the air fryer basket and cook for 5 minutes.
  5. Flip the cod loins and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
  6. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Avoid Overcooking

Watch your cod closely to prevent overcooking. Air fryers vary, so check for doneness a minute early to ensure flaky perfection.
Flaky air fryer cod cooked to golden perfection in the basket

Nutrition for Air Fryer Cod Loin

Calories: 320 | Protein: 30g | Carbs: 2g | Fat: 12g

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Cod Loin

Pair your air fryer cod loin with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a comprehensive meal. For a heartier option, add some roasted new potatoes seasoned with rosemary or thyme. These sides complement the flaky white fish perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Cod Loin Recipe

This air fryer cod loin recipe offers the perfect balance of simplicity and flavour. Being baked rather than fried keeps it healthy without sacrificing taste. Whether it's an air fryer cod fillet or a whole loin, the lemon and garlic infuse beautifully while maintaining all the nutrients. For more fantastic recipes, visit airfryerrecipe.co.uk and explore endless possibilities.

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Common Questions About Cod Loin in Air Fryer

How do I know when cod loin is done in the air fryer?

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Cod loin is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
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Can I use frozen cod loins in the air fryer?

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Yes, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they cook through.
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What’s the best way to season air fryer cod loin?

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A drizzle of lemon juice, garlic powder, and a spray of olive oil works beautifully.
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Do I need to flip cod in the air fryer?

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Flipping halfway ensures even cooking, especially for thicker pieces.
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