Description

This zesty lemon butter fish fillet recipe features tender, flaky white fish fillets pan-seared to golden perfection and served with a vibrant lemon butter garlic sauce. Perfectly seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, this quick and easy skillet-cooked dish is bursting with fresh citrus flavor and aromatic herbs, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Seasoning

4 fillets white fish (cod, tilapia, haddock, or your favorite)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Cooking Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the fish)
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil (for sauce)
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 lemons (juice and zest)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crisp sear.
Season the Fish: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, then sprinkle this seasoning evenly over both sides of the fish fillets to enhance flavor.
Sear the Fish: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the fish fillets and cook for about 3 minutes per side or until golden and flaky. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm.
Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and add butter and 2 tablespoons olive oil to the skillet. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Lemon and Deglaze: Stir in lemon juice and zest to deglaze the pan, letting the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Reheat the Fish: Return the fish fillets to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Cook for an additional 1 minute to warm through and meld flavors.
Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately with extra lemon butter sauce for a zesty, buttery finish.

Notes

Patting the fish dry is crucial for a good sear and crisp texture.
Use fresh lemons for the best bright and tangy flavor.
The sauce can be spooned over rice, vegetables, or pasta for a complete meal.
Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference, especially the salt and pepper.
White fish fillets like cod or tilapia are ideal due to their mild flavor and flaky texture.