If you are craving a fresh, flavorful seafood dish that brightens your dinner table, this Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe is going to become your new go-to. With the perfect balance of zesty lemon and orange paired with fragrant herbs, this dish elevates simple catfish fillets into a delightful meal bursting with vibrant flavors and tender, flaky texture. It’s a brilliant way to savor healthy, oven-baked fish that feels indulgent yet light, making it ideal for weeknights or impressing guests without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients used. Each one plays an essential role in bringing layers of bright citrus, herbal freshness, and subtle warmth to the dish, ensuring a perfectly balanced, colorful plate every time.
- 4 catfish fillets: The mild, firm texture of catfish stands up beautifully to the citrus and herbs without overpowering them.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps keep the fish moist as it bakes.
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon: Offers tangy brightness that lifts the dish and complements the fish.
- Juice and zest of 1 orange: Introduces sweet citrus notes to balance the lemon’s tartness wonderfully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides savory depth and a warm aroma.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Delivers an earthy herbal background that pairs perfectly with seafood.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh): Adds a touch of freshness and mild peppery flavor.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Infuses subtle smokiness and gentle color.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the citrus.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Brings a mild heat and seasoning zip.
- Lemon and orange slices (optional, for garnish): Adds an inviting aroma and pretty presentation to your finished dish.
How to Make Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps the catfish cook quickly and evenly while keeping it moist. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish to ensure easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Citrus & Herb Mixture
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice and zest, orange juice and zest, minced garlic, dried thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well mixed. This vibrant marinade is the heart of the recipe, infusing every bite with fresh, citrusy brightness and savory herb notes.
Step 3: Prep the Catfish and Apply the Marinade
Pat each catfish fillet dry with paper towels — removing excess moisture helps the marinade adhere better. Arrange the fillets on your prepared baking sheet or dish. Generously brush the citrus herb mixture over every surface of the fish, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Let the fillets sit for 10 minutes to soak up those incredible flavors.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Flaky
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For a delightful finish, you can broil the fillets for the last 1 to 2 minutes to create lightly crisped edges. This final touch adds a lovely texture contrast that will make every mouthful a joy.
How to Serve Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the dish’s visual appeal and aromatic profile with fresh lemon and orange slices, along with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. These garnishes add a pop of color and a refreshing citrus scent that perfectly complements the cooked fish.
Side Dishes
This catfish pairs wonderfully with fluffy steamed rice or a vibrant quinoa salad to soak up those zesty juices. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, add earthy balance, while a crisp green salad adds textural contrast and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve your Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe on a large platter lined with greens like arugula or watercress, accompanied by colorful citrus segments scattered around. Drizzle any extra marinade left in the baking dish over the fillets just before serving to intensify the flavor punch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, gently transfer any leftover catfish to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Make sure to cool the fish to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation, which can affect texture.
Freezing
If you want to preserve the Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe longer, freeze the cooked fillets in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 1 month. Labeling with the date helps keep track of freshness.
Reheating
Reheat leftover catfish gently in a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through to maintain moisture. Avoid the microwave when possible, as it can dry out the delicate fish and alter the texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While catfish is ideal due to its firm texture, you can use tilapia, cod, or even snapper. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on thickness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, the citrus and herb mixture can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Freshness might be best on the day of use, but it keeps well for 24 hours, making meal prep easier.
What if I don’t have fresh citrus for garnish?
No worries! You can skip the fresh slices or use a sprinkle of extra zest on top when serving to add that pop of citrus aroma and color.
How do I add a spicy kick to this recipe?
Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the marinade for a subtle heat that elevates the citrus-herb flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that feels both elegant and comforting. The bright citrus notes paired with fragrant herbs make every bite sing, and the quick baking time means you can enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal at home anytime. Give this recipe a try—you might just find a new favorite for your dinner rotation!
Print
Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish recipe is a light and flavorful dish perfect for a healthy dinner. Featuring tender catfish fillets marinated in a zesty blend of lemon and orange juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, then baked to perfection, it offers a delightful balance of bright citrus notes and savory spices.
Ingredients
Catfish and Marinade
- 4 catfish fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Juice and zest of 1 orange
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish (optional)
- Lemon and orange slices
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice and zest, orange juice and zest, minced garlic, dried thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a fragrant citrus-herb marinade.
- Marinate Catfish: Pat catfish fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet or dish and brush the citrus herb marinade generously over each piece. Allow the fish to sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Bake the Fish: Bake the marinated catfish in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Optional Broil: For slightly crisped edges, switch the oven to broil and cook the fish for an additional 1 to 2 minutes at the end of the baking time.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the finished catfish fillets with fresh lemon and orange slices if desired. Serve warm alongside rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- This recipe works equally well with other mild white fish such as tilapia or cod.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Using fresh parsley delivers a brighter flavor compared to dried parsley.
- Letting the fish marinate enhances the citrus and herb infusion.
- Use parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking on the baking sheet.
