When you’re looking for a meal that’s quick, healthy, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors, this Lemon Butter Fishrecipe is an absolute winner. Imagine delicate white fish fillets, perfectly pan-seared to a golden crisp, then bathed in a bright, zesty lemon garlic butter sauce. It’s an effortlessly elegant dish that comes together in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for a busy weeknight, but delicious enough for a special occasion. Get ready for a simple yet incredibly satisfying seafood experience!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Lemon Butter Fish recipe has become a true staple in my kitchen for its sheer simplicity and incredible flavor payoff. What I love most is how a few basic ingredients can create such a sophisticated and delicious meal. The combination of rich butter, aromatic garlic, and bright, tangy lemon juice perfectly complements the mildness of white fish, enhancing its natural flavor without overpowering it.

It’s a fantastic testament to minimal fuss, maximum flavor. The whole dish cooks in one pan, which means easy cleanup, and the cooking time is unbelievably fast. It’s perfect when you want a light yet satisfying meal that feels restaurant-quality but is entirely homemade. Plus, it’s naturally low-carb and packed with lean protein, making it a healthy choice I can feel good about.

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Ingredients:

• 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock – choose firm, flaky white fish)
• 3 Tbsps unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 Tbsps chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges for serving

Swaps and Notes

• Fish Fillets: Cod, tilapia, haddock, snapper, mahi-mahi, or even flounder would work beautifully. Ensure fillets are roughly uniform in thickness for even cooking.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the salt content.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.
• Lemon Juice & Zest: Always use fresh lemon juice and zest. Bottled juice won’t give the same vibrant flavor.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley adds a lovely color and herbaceous note. Fresh dill or chives could also be delicious.
• Spice: A tiny pinch of red pepper flakes can be added with the garlic for a subtle warmth.

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Instructions:

Getting this flavorful Lemon Butter Fish on your table is incredibly quick and easy.

1. Prepare & Season Fish: Pat the fish fillets thoroughly dry on both sides using paper towels. This helps ensure a golden sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet (non-stick or cast iron works well), melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s fragrant but not browned.
3. Cook Fish – First Side: Carefully place the seasoned fish fillets into the hot skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side until the fish turns opaque about halfway up the sides, and the cooked side is golden brown and forms a nice crust.
4. Flip & Add Lemon: Gently flip the fish fillets using a thin spatula. Immediately pour in the juice of 1 large lemonand sprinkle the 1 teaspoon lemon zest over the fish and into the pan.
5. Cook Fish – Second Side: Continue to cook the other side for 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
6. Spoon Sauce & Garnish: As the fish finishes cooking, spoon the delicious buttery sauce from the pan over the fillets a few times. Once cooked, remove from heat. Garnish generously with freshly chopped parsley.
7. Serve: Serve the Lemon Butter Fish hot, with extra lemon wedges on the side for squeezing, and a spoonful of that amazing pan sauce.

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Pro Tip:

Don’t overcrowd the pan! If cooking more than two fillets at a time, cook in batches to ensure the fish sears beautifully and doesn’t steam. This is key for that lovely golden crust. Also, using a non-stick skillet can make flipping delicate fish much easier.

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Lemon Butter Fish is a light and healthy main course that pairs well with a variety of simple sides.

• Rice: A side of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa is perfect for soaking up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
• Roasted or Steamed Vegetables: Steamed asparagus, roasted broccoli, green beans, or a simple side salad would complement the fish beautifully.
• Light Starters: Begin your meal with a light soup or a fresh, vibrant salad. For another easy chicken and salad meal, check out my Grilled Chicken Breast with Salad & Creamy Herb Sauce.
• Simple Sauces: While the pan sauce is excellent, a small dollop of tartar sauce or a fresh dill sauce could be offered on the side.
• Other Seafood Dishes: If you love quick and flavorful seafood, you might also enjoy my Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo Pasta.

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Storage and Leftover Tips

Fish is always best enjoyed fresh, but here’s how to handle leftovers:

• Storage: Store any leftover cooked fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The quality will diminish over time.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a non-stick skillet over low heat, or in a microwave on low power, adding a tiny splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Be careful not to overcook, as fish can become rubbery when reheated.
• Repurpose: Leftover flaky fish is great flaked into salads or used for fish tacos.

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More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the quick, flavorful, and healthy nature of this fish dish, you’ll definitely want to explore some of these other fantastic recipes:

• For another incredibly satisfying and easy one-pan meal with sausage and vegetables, check out my This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage Is My Favorite Quick Dinner Packed with Southern Flavor.
• If you’re a fan of comforting and hearty dishes, don’t miss This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo Is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort.
• And for another comforting poultry dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal, consider These Easy Turkey Wings Are My Favorite Comfort Food For Lazy Sundays.

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Final Thoughts

This Lemon Butter Fish recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients, combined with a quick cooking method, can create a truly extraordinary meal. Its delicate flavor, flaky texture, and bright, zesty sauce make it an ideal choice for a healthy, delicious dinner on any night of the week. Dive in and savor every bite of this effortlessly elegant dish!

What’s your favorite way to prepare white fish? Share your tips or serving ideas in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more delicious and heartwarming recipes that bring joy to your kitchen.