Description

This Pan Fried Fish Recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor! With a golden, crispy crust on the outside and tender, flaky fish on the inside, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, pan-frying fish is a foolproof way to create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. Serve it with fresh lemon juice and your favorite sides for a delicious, healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

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4 fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, haddock, or salmon)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ cup all-purpose flour (optional, for a light coating)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Fish:
- Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Lightly season both sides of the fish with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Optional Flour Coating:
- If you want a light crust, dredge the fish fillets in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
Heat the Skillet:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and butter, allowing the butter to melt and sizzle. Be careful not to let the butter burn.
Cook the Fish:
- Place the fish fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid flipping too early—let the fish form a crust before turning.
Serve:
- Transfer the cooked fish to a plate. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Choose the Right Fish: Use fresh, firm fish fillets for the best results. If using frozen fish, thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the fish in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to add other spices like cayenne pepper, cumin, or Italian seasoning for a flavor twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or skip the coating altogether.
Reheating: Reheat leftover fish in a skillet over low heat to maintain its crispiness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-frying
Cuisine: American