30-Minute Chili Lime Air Fryer Cod
Flaky white cod filets marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, chili powder, and oregano, then air fried to golden perfection. The citrusy marinade infuses the fish with bold flavor while keeping it incredibly moist. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners when you want restaurant-quality fish in under 15 minutes of cooking time. The avocado oil helps create a beautiful crispy exterior while the lime and spices add a vibrant kick that pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Remove cod from packaging and place on plate or cutting board
- 2
Pat off excess moisture using paper towels, ensuring filets are completely thawed
- 3
Stir together avocado oil, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined
- 4
Place cod filets in zip lock bag or sealable container and pour in marinade
- 5
Seal bag and move around until filets are well-coated in marinade
- 6
Refrigerate at least 30 minutes, up to 10 hours
- 7
Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes
- 8
Transfer marinated cod filets to air fryer basket
- 9
Cook for 8-12 minutes depending on thickness, until fish reaches internal temperature of 145 degrees F
Tips
Ensure cod filets are completely thawed before marinating for even cooking and better flavor absorption
Don't skip the marinating time - even 30 minutes makes a significant difference in flavor penetration
Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer rather than relying solely on cooking time for food safety
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked cod for up to 3 days in an airtight container
Marinate cod up to 10 hours in advance for deeper flavor
Serve immediately while crispy exterior is at its best
Common Mistakes
Don't overcook or cod will become dry and rubbery
Pat fish completely dry to avoid excess moisture preventing browning
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod filets?
Yes, but thaw completely first and pat very dry to remove excess moisture for even cooking.
How long does marinated cod keep?
Marinated raw cod keeps up to 2 days refrigerated, cooked cod keeps 3 days refrigerated.
Can I cook this in a regular oven?
Yes, bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, though you won't get the same crispy exterior.