Lemon Butter Cod with Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 25 minutes.

• Perfectly pan-seared with a golden crust and tender, flaky interior.

• A bright, zesty lemon butter sauce that enhances the fish without overpowering it.

• Simple, wholesome ingredients.

• Pairs well with a variety of sides, from vegetables to rice or potatoes.

• Family-friendly yet elegant enough for entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cod fillets, skinless

• All-purpose flour

• Paprika

• Onion powder

• Dried thyme

• Dried oregano

• Cayenne pepper

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Butter

• Olive oil

• Garlic, minced

• Low-sodium chicken broth

• Fresh lemon juice

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine flour, paprika, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.

2. Coat both sides of the cod fillets evenly with the flour mixture.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Add cod fillets and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and flaky. Transfer to serving plates.

5. Reduce heat to medium-low. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add garlic and sauté about 15 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

6. Stir in chicken broth and lemon juice, removing the skillet from heat to avoid excessive steaming.

7. Pour sauce over the cod fillets and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Swap cod with halibut, haddock, or tilapia.

• Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth or white wine for a different flavor.

• Add capers for a briny touch.

• Include fresh herbs like dill or thyme in the butter sauce.

• For a lighter option, skip the flour coating and simply season the fish before searing.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep the fish moist.

• Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the fish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.

What type of skillet is best for pan-searing cod?

A heavy non-stick skillet or cast iron pan works best for achieving a golden crust.

How do I know when the cod is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this recipe without flour?

Yes, the flour helps create a light crust, but you can omit it for a gluten-free or lighter version.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s mild in flavor and pairs well with kid-friendly sides like rice or mashed potatoes.

Can I use lemon zest instead of juice?

Juice gives the sauce brightness, but a bit of zest can add extra citrus flavor.

What sides go best with lemon butter cod?

Steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad are excellent choices.

Can I double the sauce?

Absolutely—just double the butter, broth, and lemon juice for extra sauce.

How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the pan?

Make sure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the fish, and avoid moving it too soon.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, cod is lean and high in protein. The butter adds richness, but portion control keeps it balanced.

Conclusion

Lemon Butter Cod is a versatile, elegant, and easy recipe that highlights the natural flavor of flaky cod with a luscious lemon-garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights yet sophisticated enough for entertaining. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.

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