Crispy Oven Fried Fish Recipe
This Crispy Oven Fried Fish recipe offers a healthier twist on traditional fried fish by baking it in the oven. The fish is coated in a flavorful dry breading mixture and butter, resulting in a perfectly crispy crust and tender, juicy interior. Ideal for a quick, satisfying meal with less oil and mess than pan frying.
- Author: Clara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
For the dry breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fine cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 teaspoons ground paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
For the eggs
For the fish
- 1 pound thick white fish fillet – preferably cod, cut into 8–10 pieces
For the pan
- Preheat Oven and Heat Pan: Preheat your oven to 430°F (220°C). Place a dark-colored roasting pan or baking sheet inside the oven to heat. It’s important to use a hot pan to effectively melt the butter and help the breading crisp up.
- Mix Dry Breading: In a shallow dish, combine all dry breading ingredients: flour, breadcrumbs, cornmeal, sea salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and baking powder. Mix evenly.
- Prepare Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the two large eggs until smooth and combined.
- Bread the Fish: First dip each fish piece lightly into the dry breading. Next, coat them thoroughly with the beaten eggs. Finally, dip each piece again into the dry breading, pressing gently to adhere a thick, even crust. Place coated fish on a plate until all pieces are breaded.
- Melt Butter on Hot Pan: Carefully remove the heated pan from the oven. Add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and swirl to melt and coat the pan evenly. Arrange the breaded fish pieces on the pan in a single layer.
- Bake the Fish: Bake the fish for 10 minutes. Then, flip each piece carefully, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter on top, and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the coating is golden and crisp and the fish is cooked through.
- Broil for Extra Crispness: For a final crispy finish, place the pan under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve: Let the fish rest on the pan for 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
- Fish: Skinless cod is preferred for its thick, firm fillets which hold up well to baking. Tilapia can be used but tends to cook faster and be less juicy due to thinner fillets.
- Cornmeal: Adds extra crispiness to the coating. If unavailable, double the breadcrumbs instead.
- Breadcrumbs: If substituting with Panko breadcrumbs, it is recommended to first dredge the fish in seasoned flour alone before breading. This ensures the coating sticks properly and crisps up nicely.
Keywords: oven fried fish, crispy baked fish, baked cod recipe, healthier fried fish, crispy fish fillets, easy fish recipe