Description
This Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is light, flaky, and packed with fresh citrusy flavor. Pan-seared or baked to perfection, it’s coated in a rich, buttery lemon sauce with garlic and fresh herbs. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a healthy, delicious dinner!
Ingredients
Units
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For the Fish:
- 4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, halibut, or snapper)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for a slight crust)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- (Optional) Lightly dust the fillets with flour for a crispy golden crust.
Step 2: Cook the Fish
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the fish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through (internal temp 145°F / 63°C).
- Remove fish from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth or white wine.
- Simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
- Return the fish to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the fillets.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
- No skillet? Bake the fillets at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, then pour the warm lemon butter sauce over before serving.
- Make it dairy-free? Use olive oil instead of butter.
- Want extra crunch? Coat the fillets in panko breadcrumbs before pan-frying.
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg