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Easy Lemon Butter Cod

This Easy Lemon Butter Cod Recipe transforms simple cod fillets into a gourmet meal. With a perfectly seared exterior and a rich, tangy lemon butter sauce, this dish is both impressive and incredibly simple to make. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 12-inch non-stick skillet, Fish spatula, Small mixing bowl, Measuring spoons and cups, Paper towels

Ingredients
  

  • 4 6 oz cod fillets [170 g each]
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon juiced [about 2 tablespoons or 30 ml]
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped [8 g]
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour [8 g]
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder [2 g]
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder [2 g]
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika [2 g]
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano [0.5 g]
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt [4 g]
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper [2 g]
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil [30 ml]
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter [45 g]
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth [60 ml]

Instructions
 

  • Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels.
  • In a small bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the cod fillets.
  • Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the seasoned cod fillets to the skillet.
  • Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and easily flakes with a fork.
  • Transfer the cooked fish to a serving plate and cover to keep warm.
  • In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low.
  • Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
  • Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, stirring until melted and sauce is slightly thickened.
  • Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
  • Pour the lemon butter sauce over the cod fillets.
  • Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

- For best results, use cod fillets that are about 1-inch thick.
- If using frozen cod, thaw completely before cooking.
- Cod can be substituted with other white fish like haddock or pollock.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Keyword 20-minute dinner, easy cod recipe, healthy fish recipe, keto-friendly fish, lemon butter cod, lemon garlic cod, low-carb fish dish, quick seafood dinner, restaurant-style cod, weeknight seafood meal, white fish recipe