Description
This Pan-Fried Cod recipe delivers tender, flaky fish with a beautifully golden, crispy crust in under 20 minutes. Made with simple pantry seasonings and finished with fresh lemon, this easy cod recipe is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for a special dinner. Light, flavorful, and protein-rich, it’s a healthy seafood option the whole family will love.
Ingredients
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4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
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Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
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In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
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Lightly dredge each fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
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Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until butter is melted and sizzling.
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Place cod fillets in the skillet without overcrowding.
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Cook 3–4 minutes on the first side until golden brown.
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Carefully flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature should reach 145°F / 63°C).
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Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with chopped parsley.
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Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
Always pat cod dry to achieve a crisp crust.Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding the fish.Avoid moving the fillets too soon to prevent sticking.For extra crunch, substitute panko breadcrumbs for flour.A simple lemon butter or caper sauce pairs beautifully.
