I’ve always loved tacos for their versatility, but when I tried making them with crispy air-fried cod, they quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The air fryer works magic here—giving the fish a golden crunch on the outside while keeping the inside tender and flaky. It’s a lighter, fresher take on fried fish tacos without losing that satisfying texture we all crave.
What I enjoy most about this recipe is how simple and customizable it is. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can put together tacos that taste like something from a seaside restaurant. Whether you top them with a bright slaw, creamy sauce, or a squeeze of lime, these tacos are always a crowd-pleaser and make weeknight dinners feel like a mini celebration.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Cod fillets: Cod is mild, flaky, and holds up well to air frying. Its clean flavor makes it the perfect canvas for taco seasonings and toppings without overpowering them.
Tortillas: Soft corn tortillas give a traditional vibe, but flour tortillas also work if you prefer a bit more sturdiness. Warming them slightly before assembling makes them pliable and enhances their flavor.
Olive oil spray: A light spritz keeps the fish from drying out and helps achieve that golden, crispy coating in the air fryer without excess oil.
Seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, pepper): This blend infuses the cod with warmth, smokiness, and just the right amount of zest. Adjust the spices to your taste, or add a pinch of chili powder for a little heat.
Cabbage slaw: Crisp shredded cabbage adds crunch and freshness to balance the warm, flaky fish. You can toss it with lime juice or a light dressing for extra zing.
Sauce (crema, sour cream, or Greek yogurt with lime): A creamy sauce ties everything together. It adds richness and a tangy layer that complements both the fish and slaw beautifully.
Lime wedges: A fresh squeeze of lime over the tacos at the end brightens every bite, cutting through the richness and enhancing all the flavors.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb cod fillets
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Olive oil spray
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- Juice of 1 lime (plus extra wedges for serving)
How to Make Air Fryer Cod Fish Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the fish
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, then cut them into taco-sized strips. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the seasoning.
Step 2: Season generously
In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the cod pieces, coating both sides for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Air fry the cod
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil. Place the seasoned cod in a single layer and spray the tops lightly as well. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is golden and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 4: Warm the tortillas
While the fish is cooking, warm your tortillas. You can do this by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side or wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven.
Step 5: Assemble the tacos
Fill each tortilla with a few pieces of cod, add shredded cabbage, drizzle with sour cream or yogurt mixed with lime juice, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lime.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Patting the fish dry before seasoning prevents sogginess.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—this helps the fish crisp evenly.
- If using frozen cod, thaw completely and remove excess moisture before cooking.
- For extra flavor, marinate the fish with lime juice and spices for 15 minutes before air frying.
- Want it spicier? Add cayenne or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
- A quick homemade pico de gallo or mango salsa makes an amazing topping.
FAQs
Can I use another type of fish?
Yes! Halibut, tilapia, or mahi-mahi are great substitutes for cod in this recipe.
Do I have to use corn tortillas?
Not at all. Flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps work well depending on your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep the cooked cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer before assembling tacos.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely—swap the sour cream or Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative, or use avocado crema instead.
What sides go well with fish tacos?
Mexican rice, black beans, or chips with guacamole all pair beautifully with these tacos.