This recipe for grilled cod fish in foil is ready in 10 minutes! It has bacon, lemon pepper, paprika, and more added to it. Pair this with any of your favorite vegetables and sides.
Cod fish is a delicious and flaky white fish that is loved by many. Its mild flavor makes it appealing even to those who are not big fish lovers. Grilling cod fish in foil packets is a fantastic way to infuse flavor and keep the fish moist. But knowing exactly how long to grill cod fish in foil is key to ending up with tender, flaky, perfectly cooked fish.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know to grill cod fish in foil packets perfectly every time.
What is Cod Fish?
Cod fish belongs to the fish family Gadidae Some of the most popular types of cod fish are Atlantic cod, Pacific cod, greenland cod, and skrei cod.
Cod is a white, flaky fish with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. The flesh is lean and tender when cooked properly. Its versatility and mild taste make it a great choice for people who want to eat more fish but don’t enjoy “fishy tasting” fish.
Benefits of Cooking Cod in Foil Packets
There are several benefits to cooking delicate fish like cod in foil packets on the grill:
- The foil packet helps lock in moisture so the fish stays tender and juicy
- It allows you to add extra flavor with herbs, citrus, butter, and spices
- The fish cooks evenly with indirect heat
- Clean up is easier since the fish never directly touches the grill grates
- The foil keeps the fish from falling apart on the grill
How Long Does it Take to Grill Cod Fish in Foil?
The exact cooking time for grilling cod in foil packets can vary slightly depending on a few factors
Thickness of the Fillets
- Thinner fillets or cuts of cod will cook faster than thick pieces. Thin fillets may only need 6-8 minutes while a 1-1.5 inch thick cod fillet may need 12-14 minutes.
Amount of Fish
- Cooking a larger single fillet or steak will take longer than several smaller 4-6 oz portions. Check thickness and reduce time for smaller portions.
Grill Temperature
- Fish will cook faster at higher heat. If using medium-high heat, start checking thinner pieces at 6 minutes. For a medium or medium-low grill temp, extend the cooking time.
Type of Grill
- Fish may cook slightly faster on a well heated cast iron grill pan vs a traditional barbecue grill.
Taking these factors into account, the estimated grill times are:
- Thin fillets or small 4-6 oz portions: 6-8 minutes
- 1 inch thick pieces: 8-12 minutes
- 1-1.5 inch thick fillets: 12-14 minutes
Always rely on an instant read thermometer to check for doneness rather than just relying on time. The internal temperature should reach 145°F when the cod is cooked through.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilling Cod in Foil Packets
Follow these simple steps for perfectly grilled cod in foil every time:
Ingredients Needed
- Cod fillets, portioned into 4-6 oz pieces if large
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Salt, pepper, desired seasonings
- Fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or parsley
- Lemon slices
- Butter (optional)
Prep the Foil Packets
- Tear off large pieces of heavy duty aluminum foil, enough to fully wrap each portion.
- Place 3-4 sprigs of fresh herbs in the center of each packet.
- Brush both sides of the cod lightly with olive oil then place on top of the herbs.
Season and Top the Fish
- Sprinkle the cod evenly with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings.
- Top with thin lemon slices and a small pat of butter (optional).
Wrap the Foil Packets
- Seal the packets completely by crimping and folding the foil tightly around the fish.
Grill the Packets
- Heat grill to medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium once heated.
- Place packets directly on grates and grill for time indicated above, turning packets halfway through.
- Check internal temp of fish to ensure doneness. Remove packets when cod reaches 145°F.
Serve Immediately
- Carefully open foil packets, garnish fish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Transfer cod fillets to plates or a serving dish, being careful not to break up the flesh. Enjoy!
Helpful Tips for Grilling Cod in Foil Packets
- Double wrap thicker fillets in foil to prevent tearing
- For best results, place packets on indirect heat rather than directly over flames
- Let the grill preheat fully before grilling packets to ensure even cooking
- Resist temptation to peek or frequently open the packets
- Use a meat thermometer to accurately check doneness
- Allow 3-4 minutes carryover cooking after removing fish from grill
Delicious Seasonings and Toppings for Grilled Cod
The mild flavor of cod takes well to lots of seasoning combinations. Consider rubbing the fish with:
- Lemon Pepper – classic pairing with cod
- Old Bay Seasoning – great seafood spice blend
- Cajun seasoning – brings bold flavor
- Italian seasoning – basil, oregano, garlic
- Chili powder and lime
- Jerk seasoning – Caribbean spice rub
Before sealing the packets, top the cod with:
- Lemon slices
- Lime slices
- Chopped fresh herbs
- Thin butter slices
- Chili flakes or pepper rings
- Chopped olives
- Diced tomatoes
Side Dishes for Grilled Cod in Foil Packets
The simplicity of grilled cod packets makes it easy to pair with a variety of side dishes. Some delicious options include:
- Grilled asparagus or summer squash slices
- Garlic herb roasted potatoes
- Mexican-style street corn
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Coleslaw or broccoli salad
- Rice pilaf or couscous
- crusty bread for dipping juices
Storing and Reheating Leftover Grilled Cod
Leftover grilled cod will keep 3-4 days stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently either in a skillet, in the oven at 300°F, or for best results, in the microwave with a splash of liquid like lemon juice, wine, or broth. Take care not to overcook the delicate fish when reheating.
Reasons to Try Grilling Cod in Foil Packets
Grilling cod in foil packets is one of the easiest ways to enjoy tender, flaky, and flavorful cod fish at home. Here’s why it should be your new go-to method:
- Fool-proof method even for beginner cooks
- Packets can be assembled ahead of time
- Hands-off grilling with no mess or stuck fish
- Infuses maximum flavor into the mild fish
- Moist and tender texture
- Easy clean-up
- Fun presentation when served in packets
So next time you’re seeking an easy yet flavorful weeknight meal or looking to spice up your grill game, give grilled cod in foil packets a try! Follow the guide above for tips on cook time and you’ll have delicious, perfectly cooked cod fish.
How Long to Cook it/How to Tell When it’s Done
It will typically take 8-12 minutes to grill the fish. Cook the fish until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees. Some like to cook their seafood to around 135 degrees. Do what you prefer.
What Type of Fish to Use
Any white fish, like cod, tilapia, catfish, etc., can be used in this recipe; the cooking time won’t change.
SIMPLE 5 Ingredients COD in foil ON THE GRILL in 15 mins ⏰
How do you cook cod on a grill?
Make the butter sauce – Melt butter and combine with diced shallot, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Pour mixture across the fillets. Place several lemon slices across the top of the cod. Grill the fish – Close the foil packets around the fish – fold foil towards the center and crimp edges of foil to seal packets. Reduce the grill to medium heat.
Can You Grill Cod in foil?
By sealing the fish filets in foil with butter and fresh lemon, the cod is gently steamed by the heat and is therefore much less likely to be overcooked by the grill. Not only is grilling fish in foil more fool-proof for getting the perfect cook, but this method also makes clean-up way easier.
How long does it take to cook cod in foil?
Cook on the grill until tender, and enjoy! These cod foil packets take 12 to 15 minutes to cook over medium-high heat on a closed grill. Cod is generally pretty thin and therefore cooks quickly. If you use another type of fish, you may need more or less cooking time, but generally fish takes 10 to 15 minutes to cook in foil.
How do you cook cod fillets with aluminum foil?
There should be one piece of aluminum foil for every cod fillet (I had one large piece of fish, but you can make this recipe with smaller fillets). Place the fish – Place several sprigs of fresh herbs on each piece of aluminum foil and then place the cod fillets on top of the herbs. Sprinkle the salt and pepper across the cod fillets.