Name: Pan Fried Cod Fish Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 lemon (cut into wedges); Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both unforgettably delicious and stunningly simple, let me introduce you to Pan Fried Cod Fish. This recipe is my secret weapon for easy yet elegant dinners: succulent cod fillets, lightly dredged in seasoned flour, then crisped to perfection in a sizzling skillet. A squeeze of lemon and a scatter of fresh parsley bring everything to life, resulting in a plate that’s as bright and fresh as it is comforting. Whether you’re planning a weeknight meal or impressing guests, this Pan Fried Cod Fish always delivers on flavor and ease!

Pan Fried Cod Fish Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of my favorite things about making Pan Fried Cod Fish is how approachable the ingredient list is—it truly lets the delicate fish shine. Each component plays a key role in creating that irresistible combination of golden crust, flaky interior, and vibrant finish.

Cod fillets (4, about 6 oz each): Fresh wild-caught cod has a gentle, sweet flavor and flakes beautifully when cooked; look for fillets of even thickness for the most reliable results.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning is all cod needs to highlight its natural taste—be generous, especially with the pepper.
All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Flour creates a lightly crisped crust; you can swap in a gluten-free blend as needed without sacrificing texture.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a delicate hint of smokiness and an appealing golden hue to each fillet.
Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Subtly infuses the crust with mellow, aromatic flavor that doesn’t overwhelm the fish.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the fillets crisp up while keeping them moist inside—choose extra-virgin for the best flavor.
Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Butter and olive oil together ensure a rich, golden finish with a touch of indulgence.
Lemon (1, cut into wedges): Fresh citrus wakes up every bite and balances the richness of the fish.
Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle before serving adds color, freshness, and a subtle herbal lift to the dish.

How to Make Pan Fried Cod Fish

Step 1: Prep and Season the Cod

Start by patting your cod fillets dry with paper towels—this is a small trick that makes a huge difference for a crispy crust later! Season both sides of each fillet generously with salt and pepper. The seasoning not only amps up the flavor but also helps the flour coating adhere better and crisp up beautifully.

Step 2: Mix the Coating

Grab a shallow dish and stir together the flour, paprika, and garlic powder. This simple blend acts like magic when it hits the hot pan, creating a crust that’s both flavorful and light. Gently press each fillet into the flour mixture, coating both sides, and then shake off the excess. You want just a thin, even layer.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

Set a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, then pour in the olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers—this means it’s hot enough to sear. Add the butter and let it melt completely, swirling the pan to mix it with the oil. This combo ensures your Pan Fried Cod Fish gets a gorgeous color and flavor without burning.

Step 4: Fry the Cod Fillets

Carefully add the prepared fillets to the skillet, laying them down away from you to avoid splattering. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side, until the edges look opaque and the underside is golden brown. Flip gently with a spatula, then cook another 3 to 4 minutes, or until the second side is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Be patient—don’t move the cod too much, so you get that perfect crust.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the Pan Fried Cod Fish fillets to a serving plate. Immediately squeeze fresh lemon wedges over each fillet and shower them with a generous pinch of chopped parsley. Serve right away while they’re still piping hot for peak enjoyment!

How to Serve Pan Fried Cod Fish

Garnishes

For a dish as clean and bright as Pan Fried Cod Fish, garnishes shouldn’t be complicated—let a simple sprinkle of fresh parsley and a burst of lemon juice work their magic. The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, while the citrus ties everything together with zingy brightness.

Side Dishes

Pair this cod with fluffy steamed rice, buttery baby potatoes, or a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Want something cozy? Try roasted vegetables or even a quick sauté of seasonal greens. The delicate flavor of Pan Fried Cod Fish means it’s versatile enough to match almost anything!

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve the cod fillets over a bed of herbed couscous with lemon wedges fanned out on the side. Or, turn Pan Fried Cod Fish into light seafood tacos by tucking flakes into warm tortillas with a cabbage slaw and sriracha mayo. You can even serve it atop a hearty grain bowl for a modern twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have extras, store leftover Pan Fried Cod Fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Let the fish cool to room temperature before packing it away to prevent sogginess—just keep in mind, freshly cooked cod is at its tastiest!

Freezing

Freezing Pan Fried Cod Fish is possible, though the texture may change a bit. To freeze, wrap cooled fillets tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then seal in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge to avoid excess moisture during reheating.

Reheating

To recapture that crispy edge, reheat cod fillets in a preheated oven at 350°F on a baking sheet lined with parchment for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for Pan Fried Cod Fish?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the fillets completely and pat them dry very well before dredging and frying. Extra moisture can prevent the beautiful crust from forming, so this step is key.

What other seasonings can I add?

While the classic paprika and garlic powder combo is foolproof, you can tailor the flavor with a pinch of cayenne, dried thyme, or even a splash of Old Bay seasoning for a fun twist. Just adjust to your taste!

What if I don’t have parsley for garnish?

No worries! Substitute with fresh dill, chives, basil, or even a light sprinkle of chopped green onion. Any fresh, mild herb will add a lovely finishing touch to Pan Fried Cod Fish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Swap in your favorite gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour—cornmeal or chickpea flour also work beautifully for dredging and will bring a subtle new flavor.

How do I know when the cod is cooked through?

Cooked cod should flake easily with a fork and turn opaque all the way through. If in doubt, use an instant-read thermometer: the thickest part should register 145°F. Avoid overcooking for that perfect, juicy result!

Final Thoughts

I can’t say enough how satisfying and easy Pan Fried Cod Fish is to whip up—it’s a true weeknight hero you’ll reach for again and again. Give it a try, and prepare for a dinner that looks and tastes gourmet, without the stress. Happy cooking!

Pan Fried Cod Fish Recipe

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4.7 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Pan Fried Cod Fish recipe is a delicious and quick way to prepare tender cod fillets. With a crispy outer coating and moist, flaky fish inside, this dish is perfect for a light and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Cod Fillets:

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)

Seasoning:

Salt and pepper to taste

Breading Mixture:

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For Cooking:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Garnish:

1 lemon (cut into wedges)
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
Coat with Seasoned Flour: Mix flour, paprika, and garlic powder in a dish. Dredge the cod fillets in the flour mixture.
Cook the Cod: Heat oil in a skillet, add butter, and cook the fillets until golden and flaky.
Serve: Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley. Enjoy!