Lemon Herb Baked Tilapia

Name: Lemon Herb Baked Tilapia
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 tilapia fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon (juiced and zested); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love making Lemon Herb Baked Tilapia for a quick weeknight dinner. The bright, zesty flavors of lemon combined with fresh herbs create an incredibly refreshing dish that doesn't take much time to prepare. I often serve this with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad, making it a healthy yet satisfying meal. It's so easy to throw together, and the oven does all the work while I can focus on setting the table or unwinding after a long day.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:57:35.740Z

When I first tried Lemon Herb Baked Tilapia, I was amazed at how something so simple could taste so gourmet. I experimented with different herbs from my garden, finally settling on parsley and thyme as my favorites. Adding lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps to keep the fish moist during baking. Trust me, it's a wonderful way to brighten up the dish!

This recipe has become my go-to for family gatherings. Everyone loves it, and they are always surprised when I tell them how easy it is to prepare. Another tip I found is to let the tilapia rest for a couple of minutes after baking; it really helps the flavors settle. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a staple in your kitchen as well!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright citrus flavor that elevates the tilapia
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights
Healthy and nutritious without sacrificing taste

Understanding the Ingredients

Tilapia is a mild, versatile fish that absorbs flavors well, making it an excellent canvas for the bold, zesty marinade in this recipe. When selecting tilapia fillets, look for fresh fish with a clean scent and firm texture. Frozen fillets can also work, just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating to ensure even flavor absorption.

The combination of lemon juice and zest not only adds brightness but also tenderizes the fish, enhancing its texture. Fresh garlic contributes a punchy flavor that balances the citrus. If you want to experiment, try using fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of dried thyme and parsley, but be sure to reduce the quantity by half, as fresh herbs are more potent.

Baking Techniques

When baking your tilapia, lining the baking dish with parchment paper can help prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup. Ensure the fillets are spread out evenly in the dish and not overlapping, which allows for uniform cooking and prevents steaming. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh turns opaque and pearly.

If you enjoy a crispy top on your fish, consider broiling the tilapia for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it during this time to avoid burning; looking for golden edges is a good visual cue that it’s ready to be pulled from the oven.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to whip up your Lemon Herb Baked Tilapia:

Ingredients

4 tilapia fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon (juiced and zested)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything ready, you're all set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Lemon Herb Baked Tilapia:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for baking.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Fish

Place the tilapia fillets in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.

Bake the Fish

Bake the tilapia in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Now that you know how easy it is, invite family and friends to share in this delightful dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, serve the tilapia with freshly chopped herbs or a slice of lemon on top.

Serving Suggestions

For a well-rounded meal, pair your Lemon Herb Baked Tilapia with a side of steamed asparagus or a fresh arugula salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. This not only complements the flavors of the fish but also adds additional nutrients to your plate. If you're looking to add some starch, consider serving it with quinoa or brown rice to soak up the delicious lemony marinade.

To bring a Mexican twist to this dish, you could serve the tilapia in corn tortillas topped with a fresh mango salsa. The sweetness of the mango will enhance the flavors of the lemon and herbs while introducing an exciting contrast in texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the marinade up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to only marinate the fish for about 30 minutes to an hour before baking to avoid the texture turning mushy due to the acidity of the lemon juice.

If you have leftovers, store the baked tilapia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, being careful not to overcook it as the fish can dry out quickly. To enjoy the dish cold, flake the leftovers into a salad for a refreshing lunch the next day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen tilapia?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for tilapia?

Any mild white fish like cod or haddock will work in this recipe.

→ Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?

Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes or asparagus make great additions.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the fish a few hours in advance and bake it when you're ready to serve.