Crispy Outside • Juicy Inside • Ready in 20 Minutes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Restaurant-quality with simple ingredients
- Crispy, golden crust with tender flaky fish
- Fresh lemon + butter = perfect balance
- Healthy, high-protein, low-carb
- One pan, minimal cleanup
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Fish
- 4 fish fillets (tilapia, cod, haddock, sole, or snapper)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
For the Lemon Butter Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- Lemon slices (for pan & garnish)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Instructions (Step-by-Step)
Prepare the Fish
- Pat the fish fillets very dry with paper towels (important for crispiness).
- Season both sides generously with:
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Thyme
Sear the Fish
- Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- When the butter is sizzling, carefully place the fish in the pan.
- Cook 3–4 minutes per side, without moving, until:
- Golden brown
- Crispy edges
- Fish flakes easily with a fork Do not overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if needed.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Push fish to the side.
- Add remaining butter and minced garlic.
- Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t burn).
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the pan.
- Add lemon slices and let everything bubble for 1 minute
Finish & Garnish
- Spoon the lemon butter sauce over the fish.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro.
- Taste and adjust salt or lemon if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this fish with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice or lemon rice
- Roasted vegetables
- Simple green salad
- Cauliflower mash for low-carb
Pro Tips
Use a hot pan for crispy fish
Dry fish = better browning
Fresh lemon makes a HUGE difference
Don’t overcook — fish cooks fast
Health Benefits
- High in lean protein
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Low calorie & heart-healthy
- Naturally gluten-free