Chili Lime Baked Cod with Garlic and Paprika Marinade
Tender cod fillets marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, chili powder, and garlic, then baked to perfection. The citrusy marinade infuses the fish with bold flavor while keeping it moist and flaky. This protein-packed dish comes together in just 45 minutes including marinating time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or healthy meal prep. The combination of warming spices and bright lime creates a restaurant-quality fish dinner that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Stir together all marinade ingredients in a measuring cup or mixing bowl until well combined
- 2
Place cod fillets in a sealable container or zip lock bag and pour in the marinade
- 3
Seal and move around until everything is well-coated in marinade
- 4
Refrigerate at least 30 minutes, up to 10 hours
- 5
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F when ready to bake
- 6
Transfer the fish along with the marinade to a large casserole dish
- 7
Bake on the rack that's second closest to the top of the oven for 15 minutes or until fish is completely cooked through
- 8
Serve with choice of side dishes
Tips
Don't skip the marinating time - even 30 minutes makes a noticeable difference in flavor penetration and moisture retention.
Check for doneness by gently flaking with a fork - cod should be opaque white throughout with no translucent areas.
Save any leftover marinade before adding raw fish to use as a sauce for vegetables or rice.
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked cod up to 3 days in airtight container
Marinate fish up to 10 hours ahead, then bake when ready to serve
Serve immediately while hot with roasted vegetables or rice
Common Mistakes
Don't marinate longer than 10 hours to avoid texture breakdown from acid
Don't overbake to avoid dry, tough fish
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before marinating. Frozen fish may release more moisture during cooking.
How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F internal temperature with no translucent areas.
Can I freeze the marinated fish?
Yes, freeze in the marinade up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.