1-First step: Set up your breading station Grab three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In the second bowl, place the beaten egg. In the third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs. This simple setup keeps the process neat and makes coating the fish strips much easier. Before you start breading, pat the cod strips dry with a paper towel. This matters more than people think. If the fish is wet, the coating slides off and the air fryer fish will not crisp properly. Dry fish gives you a better final texture and helps the breading cling.

2-Second step: Coat the cod fillets Dredge each strip of cod in the flour mixture first. Make sure the fish gets a light, even coat on all sides. Then dip it into the beaten egg, letting any extra drip off. After that, press the strip into the panko breadcrumbs, gently pressing so the crumbs stick. For the best crispy chips style finish on the fish, do not rush this part. A well-coated strip turns into a golden, crunchy bite after air frying. If you want a little extra texture, you can press the breadcrumbs on more firmly before moving the fish to the tray or basket.

3-Third step: Spray and preheat Once the cod strips are breaded, spray both sides lightly with cooking spray. This small step helps the coating brown and gives you that satisfying crispness many people look for in air fryer fish and chips. Then preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Preheating helps the fish start cooking right away, which supports a better crust. This is one of the best habits for anyone making healthy air fryer fish and chips. You get a lighter meal, but the texture still feels close to the classic version.

4-Fourth step: Arrange in a single layer Place the fish strips into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket. Air needs space to move around the fish, and that airflow is what gives you a crisp coating. If you stack the strips too tightly, they steam instead of crisping. If you are cooking for a bigger group, work in batches. It takes a little extra time, but the result is much better. You want each strip to have enough room to turn golden on all sides.

5-Fifth step: Air fry until crisp and flaky Air fry the fish for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the cod strips and your air fryer model. Thin pieces may cook faster, while thicker strips may need a couple more minutes. Check the fish by gently pressing it with a fork. When it flakes easily, it is ready. If you are not sure, cook it for another minute or two and check again. The goal is cooked through fish with a crisp outside, not dry fish.

6-Final step: Serve hot Serve the fish right away with tartar sauce and lemon wedges. The lemon adds freshness, while the tartar sauce gives that classic fish-and-chips flavor. If you want a full meal, add air fryer fries, coleslaw, mushy peas, or even a simple green salad on the side.