Crispy on the outside, flaky on the inside, these Air Fryer Fish Nuggets (Cod) are the ultimate quick and healthy comfort food. Made in under 20 minutes with simple pantry ingredients, they're the perfect way to enjoy golden, crunchy fish nuggets in air fryer—no deep fryer or greasy mess required!
As someone who eats protein-focused meals post-bariatric surgery, I love this recipe because it’s high in lean protein, easy to portion, and doesn’t rely on oil or heavy breading.
This recipe is a year-round favorite, especially during Lent, summer cookouts, or whenever you need a fast and family-friendly weeknight dinner. It was inspired by my popular Air Fryer Salmon Bites and pairs beautifully with my Jalapeno Coleslaw or Crispy Air Fryer Potato Wedges.
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💖 Why These Air Fryer Fish Nuggets Are So Good
- Fast and fuss-free: Done in under 20 minutes from prep to plate.
- Kid-approved: Crunchy, dippable, and totally snackable.
- Healthier than takeout: No frying oil needed and made with lean cod.
⭐ Star Ingredients
- Cod fillet: Light, mild, and flaky, cod is the perfect fish for air frying. It holds its shape but stays tender and juicy.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These give that irresistible crunch without needing a deep fryer. Pro tip: lightly toast them first for extra crispness.
- Garlic powder: Adds that subtle flavor boost and ties the coating together with a savory finish.
For the complete list of ingredients with measurements and instructions, please see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
📖 Substitutions & Variations
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumb mix or serve with spicy mayo.
- Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko and flour alternatives like almond flour.
- Low carb: Try crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs for a keto twist.
- Different fish: Swap cod with haddock, tilapia, or even salmon chunks.
- No egg? Use plant-based mayo or a flax egg to bind the coating.
If you love this recipe be sure to check out our Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets and this fantastic recipe for Spinach And Mushroom Risotto.
🔪 How To Make Air Fryer Fish Nuggets
- Step 1: Cut cod fillet into bite-sized nuggets. Pat dry with paper towels and place in a bowl.
- Step 2: In one bowl, mix panko, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another, whisk two eggs. Place flour in a third bowl. Dip each piece of cod first in flour,
- Step 3: Dip the floured cod into the egg dip.
- Step 4: Next dip the cod pieces into the panko mixture. Press crumbs on well to coat.
- Step 5: Lightly grease your air fryer basket. Place nuggets in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 6: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
💡 Want to make it fun for picky eaters? Shape the nuggets into fish sticks or little stars using cookie cutters before breading. Let the kids dip their own!
👩🍳 Expert Tips
- For extra crispy nuggets, spray lightly with olive oil before air frying.
- Want more flavor? Add dried parsley, paprika, or lemon zest to the breadcrumbs.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer to bring back the crunch.
💭 FAQs
Yes! Just thaw it completely and pat dry before breading.
They should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
Absolutely. Bread the nuggets and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before air frying.
Yes! They're high in protein, low in oil, and a great alternative to fried fish.
💖 Serving Suggestions
- Sweet Potato Fries: For a touch of natural sweetness and crunch.
- Mango Avocado Salsa: Adds a refreshing, tropical zing that complements the crispy fish.
- Homemade Tartar Sauce: The creamy classic you can't go wrong with.
- Fish Tacos: Tuck the nuggets into warm tortillas with slaw and lime for a fun taco night.
- Salad Topper: Toss nuggets over a chopped green salad for an easy, protein-packed lunch.
- Fish Wraps: Wrap in a soft tortilla with lettuce, tomato, and sauce for a portable meal.
🍽 More Fantastic Seafood Recipes
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Air Fryer Fish Nuggets (Cod)
Ingredients
- 6-7 oz Cod fillet
- 2 Large Eggs
- ½ Cup Flour
- ½ Cup Panko Bread Crumbs
- ½ Teaspoon Garlic powder
- ½ Teaspoon Salt
- ½ Teaspoon Pepper
Instructions
- Cut cod fillet into bite-sized nuggets. Pat dry with paper towels and place in a bowl.
- In one bowl, mix panko, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another, whisk two eggs. Place flour in a third bowl. Dip each piece of cod first in flour.
- Dip the floured cod into the egg dip.
- Next dip the cod pieces into the panko mixture. Press crumbs on well to coat.
- Lightly grease your air fryer basket. Place nuggets in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispy nuggets, spray lightly with olive oil before air frying.
- Want more flavor? Add dried parsley, paprika, or lemon zest to the breadcrumbs.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer to bring back the crunch.
These came out so crispy and golden—total winner! I used garlic aioli for dipping and even tucked a few into tacos. Has anyone tried this with salmon or another white fish? Let me know what worked!