Poisson en Papillote (Baked Cod in Parchment)

If you’ve never tried poisson en papillote before, you’re in for something special. This grand classic of French cuisine is elegant enough to impress guests but easy enough to throw together on a busy weeknight. Each fragrant, steam-filled parchment paper pouch reveals perfectly-cooked fish filets in an herb-packed butter sauce. 

What makes this simple-but-fancy fish recipe a weeknight winner? The fish filets bake in their own little parchment packets!

This method locks in moisture and flavor while making cleanup ridiculously easy. Win-win!

why this recipe works

If you've ever made my easy air fryer halibut recipe, you'll notice the cooking method I used is the same as classic French poisson en papillote, just done in the air fryer. This recipe is just as simple, but you'll use the oven to bake the cod.

First, you'll make a quick herb butter, then spread it on each piece, top the fish with a lemon, and wrap each filet in parchment paper like a cute little gift.

Twenty minutes later, you'll have yourself a main course that looks like it came out of a fancy bistro. And another bonus? Cleanup is a breeze. 

This is one of my go-to meals when I want something healthy, flavorful, and a little bit impressive (but secretly effortless).

It's the kind of simple, French dish that makes you feel like you're winning at life, perfect for the every day but also for special occasions. 🙂

Here’s why this poisson en papillote recipe actually works and why you’ll want to make it on repeat.

• The parchment paper creates a steam pocket that keeps the fish filet juicy and tender.
• This delicious recipe is totally flexible and easy to adapt to your own taste.
• Easy clean-up! Just toss the pouch after serving.
• It's low-carb, ketogenic diet friendly, and made with real-food ingredients.
• All you need is a baking sheet, an oven, and a little folding skills (trust me, it's easy!).

ingredients for cod in parchment

This is a cod recipe that will give you flavorful, moist, and tender fish every time. Poisson en papillote, or “fish in parchment” might sound fancy, but it’s in fact really simple to prepare! 

Here's a look at what you'll need:

• Cod. You'll need about one pound of wild cod. Make sure each cod filet is approximately 3 to 4-inches in width, and about the same thickness. Keep in mind that you can substitute any type of fish for cod!
• Butter. Use softened butter or substitute with extra-virgin olive oil. 
• Lemon. You'll need lemon juice, lemon zest, and sliced lemon for this recipe. 
• Fresh herbs. Fresh chives and parsley give the cod a savory, herb-y flavor. 
• Seasonings. Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder are the perfect seasoning trio for the cod. 

how to make it

Here's a look at the process but be sure to scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for all of the details. 

recipe notes

• You can tuck in a few slices of zucchini, cherry tomatoes, green beans or broccoli right into each parchment packet, kind of like a veggie upgrade, just like in this halibut recipe. It’s an easy way to sneak in extra color and nutrition without adding extra pans to wash.
• When cooking fish, try to choose pieces that are all similar thickness to allow the fish in parchment paper packets to cook evenly. 
• Feel free to change up the compound butter to your liking! Slices of shallot, minced green onions or red onion, minced garlic, fresh dill and basil will all work wonderfully. 

serving suggestions

When it comes to serving, fish in parchment paper is super flexible, especially since cod is a mild fish. Pair it with your favorite side veggies or a simple salad, like this Spinach and Kale Salad , Fennel Cucumber Salad, or Traeger Smoked Asparagus. 

Or, toss in some sliced zucchini, fresh tomatoes or cut asparagus into the pouches to cook alongside the fish to create a full meal in one tidy little bundle.

storage tips

If you end up with leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven wrapped again in parchment to avoid drying out the fish.

Poisson en papillote is one of those recipes that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier.

It’s endlessly customizable, healthy, and lets the natural flavors of the fish and veggies shine through.

Whether you're cooking cod in parchment for a date night in or tossing in leftover veggies and calling it dinner, this method never disappoints.

Just don’t forget to check the cooking time  based on your fish thickness and maybe pour yourself a glass of that vin blanc while it bakes!

you might also love

• This Mediterranean Cod with Tomatoes, Olives and Feta is a delicious summer option!
• Try a pecan coconut salmon that is a breeze to make.  
• Looking for something different? Poached cod in coconut milk is a delicious, dairy-free choice.