Description
This Pan Fried Fish recipe delivers perfectly crispy and flavorful white fish fillets coated in a seasoned flour and cornmeal mixture, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, these tender fish fillets are enhanced with lemon juice, aromatic spices, and a buttery finish, served with fresh lemon wedges and parsley for a bright, delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 white fish fillets such as tilapia, cod, or haddock, about 6 ounces each
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal (optional for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or canola oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, then drizzle lemon juice evenly over both sides to enhance flavor and freshness.
- Make the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal (if using), salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly to create a seasoned dredging mixture.
- Coat the Fillets: Dredge each fish fillet in the seasoned flour and cornmeal mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides. Shake off any excess to prevent clumping.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and butter over medium heat until the butter has melted and the oil is hot and shimmering, signaling readiness for frying.
- Pan Fry the Fish: Carefully place the coated fish fillets into the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook each fillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through, turning gently once to maintain the coating.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the cooked fish from the skillet and briefly drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately garnished with lemon wedges and chopped parsley for added freshness and color.
Notes
- Use fresh fish fillets for the best flavor and texture; if using frozen, ensure fillets are fully thawed before cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning mix to your preference, and consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like steamed rice, fresh green salads, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
