Gather the ingredients.

Combine milk and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Add cod fillets and soak for 5 minutes.

Heat oil in a deep saucepan over medium heat.

Mix cornmeal and flour together in a shallow bowl. Season with paprika, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Dredge cod fillets in cornmeal mixture to coat both sides.

Fry cod fillets in hot oil, until cooked through and golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.