Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a baking dish or line it with parchment.

Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Drying helps the seasonings stick and prevents steaming.

In a small bowl combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk until blended.

Place fillets in the baking dish and spoon the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over each piece. Turn fillets once so both sides get a light coating. Let rest 5–10 minutes if you have time.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10–14 minutes. Thinner fillets take around 10 minutes; thicker ones up to 14–15.

Test for doneness: the fish should flake easily with a fork and be opaque through the center. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) when checked at the thickest part.

Remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.