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Easy Crispy Boston Baked Cod Recipe with Herb Breadcrumbs for Perfect Dinner

easy crispy Boston baked cod - featured image

A quick and easy baked cod recipe featuring a crispy herb breadcrumb topping that delivers a flavorful and comforting dinner without frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cod fillets, about 6 ounces each (170 grams), fresh or thawed
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (about 100 grams), preferably Japanese-style
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 25 grams)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
  • 1 lemon, zest and juice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, chopped thyme leaves, garlic powder, grated Parmesan, smoked paprika (if using), and lemon zest. Toss to mix.
  4. Drizzle 3 tablespoons olive oil over the breadcrumb mixture and mix well until crumbs are evenly coated but not soggy.
  5. Place the cod fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the top of each fillet to ensure it sticks well.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness, until the cod flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
  7. Remove from oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets before serving.
  8. Optional: If the topping isn’t browning enough, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Notes

Pat the cod dry thoroughly to avoid soggy topping. Press breadcrumbs firmly onto fish for best crispiness. Use panko for crunchiest texture. Baking at high heat ensures a golden crust without drying the fish. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko. For dairy-free, omit Parmesan and use nutritional yeast or extra herbs. Thicker fillets may require additional baking time. Broil briefly if topping needs more browning.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked cod, crispy cod, herb breadcrumbs, easy dinner, healthy fish recipe, Boston baked cod, panko crusted fish