Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Lemon Baked Fish is a light, flavorful dish featuring tender, flaky white fish fillets coated in a zesty breadcrumb crust and baked to golden perfection. It’s a healthier alternative to fried fish, with a satisfying crunch and bright lemon flavor that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

ingredients

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

white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia)breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)lemon zestlemon juicegarlic powderonion powdersalt and black pepperolive oilfresh parsley (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in olive oil and mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.

Spoon lemon juice over each fillet for brightness.

Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the top of each fillet, covering them evenly.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 12-15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers instead of breadcrumbs for a different crunch.

Add Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mix for a savory twist.

Try adding paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

Swap lemon for lime or orange zest for a citrus variation.

Top with a dollop of tartar sauce or yogurt dill sauce before serving.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to retain crispiness.Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy.

FAQs

What kind of fish works best?

Firm white fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia are ideal for this recipe.

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat dry before baking to avoid sogginess.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the fish with the crust and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking.

How do I know when the fish is done?

The fish should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use fresh herbs?

Absolutely, fresh dill or thyme would complement the lemon flavor well.

What can I serve with this?

Great options include roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad.

Can I pan-fry this instead?

Yes, though it will require more oil. Baking is the lighter, easier method.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild flavor and crispy coating make it appealing to kids.

Can I freeze it?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze cooked leftovers. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Conclusion

Crispy Lemon Baked Fish is a simple yet impressive dish that brings together bright citrus notes and a crunchy topping without the need for frying. It’s perfect for a quick dinner that feels gourmet and satisfying, offering both nutrition and flavor in every bite. Add it to your weekly menu for a fuss-free seafood option everyone will enjoy.