Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Lemon Baked Fish is the perfect balance of crispy, flavorful crust and tender, flaky fish. The lemon adds a fresh, zesty kick that perfectly complements the mild flavor of the fish. The best part? It’s baked instead of fried, making it a healthier option without compromising on taste or texture. The easy prep and minimal ingredients make this a great weeknight dinner, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Plus, it’s quick to make and can be customized with different seasonings or types of fish.

Ingredients

4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the fish from sticking.

2. Prepare the coating:

In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Add the lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture and mix it in for extra citrusy flavor.

3. Prepare the fish:

Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the coating stick better.
Drizzle the fillets with olive oil and gently rub to coat both sides of the fish. This helps the breadcrumbs crisp up during baking.

4. Coat the fish:

Dredge each fish fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the fillets are evenly coated on both sides. Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake the fish:

Bake the fish in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The crust should be golden and crispy.

6. Add lemon juice:

Once the fish is done, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top of each fillet for a zesty finish.

7. Serve:

Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Different Fish: You can use any mild, white fish for this recipe, such as cod, haddock, tilapia, or even flounder. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Spicy Lemon Baked Fish: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a touch of heat, or sprinkle chili powder for a smoky kick.
Herbed Coating: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
Crispy Lemon Fish with Panko and Cornmeal: For a heartier crust, mix panko breadcrumbs with cornmeal to give the fish an extra crunchy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover crispy lemon baked fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat the fish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until heated through. You can also use a toaster oven for reheating to keep the crust crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating. This ensures the breadcrumbs will stick properly and the fish will bake evenly.

Can I fry this fish instead of baking it?

Yes, you can pan-fry the fish for an even crispier texture. Heat a couple of tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

What sides should I serve with Crispy Lemon Baked Fish?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables (like asparagus or broccoli), mashed potatoes, a light salad, or a side of rice. You can also serve it with a tangy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.

Can I make this fish gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free option. Be sure to check the Parmesan cheese for gluten if you need it to be completely gluten-free.

How do I know when the fish is cooked through?

The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should be opaque, not translucent.

Conclusion

Crispy Lemon Baked Fish is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With a light, crispy crust and the refreshing zest of lemon, this dish is both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, special occasion, or meal prep, it’s sure to be a hit. The simple, fresh ingredients and easy preparation make it an ideal choice for a delicious and nutritious meal that everyone will love!

Crispy Lemon Baked Fish Recipe