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Lemon Butter Cod Recipe

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3.8 from 31 reviews

This Lemon Butter Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets coated in a flavorful seasoned flour mixture, pan-seared to a golden brown, and topped with a rich lemon butter sauce infused with garlic and fresh parsley. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for a delightful weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and elegant.

Ingredients

Fish and Seasoning

  • 4 (6 oz each) cod fillets, skinless, about 1-inch thick
  • 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 3/4 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Butter Sauce

  • 5 Tbsp Danish Creamery Butter, cut into 1 Tbsp pieces, divided
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the seasoning mixture: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
  2. Coat the cod fillets: Sprinkle and spread the flour mixture evenly over both sides of each cod fillet. Use up all of the mixture to ensure the fillets are fully coated for flavor and a light crust.
  3. Heat the skillet: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. This combination helps prevent sticking and adds great flavor to the fish.
  4. Sear the cod: Add the coated cod fillets to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. The fish should flake easily with a fork when done. Remove the fillets from the skillet and transfer to serving plates.
  5. Make the lemon butter sauce: Reduce the burner temperature to medium-low. Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet.
  6. Saute garlic: Add the minced garlic to the butter and saute just until fragrant and lightly deepened in color, about 15 seconds. Be careful not to brown the garlic to avoid bitterness.
  7. Add broth and lemon juice: Remove the skillet from heat and carefully pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring gently. The mixture will steam, so handle with care.
  8. Serve: Immediately pour the lemon butter sauce over the cooked cod fillets. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the delicate cod from sticking and breaking apart.
  • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spice level according to your preference.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative and omit or replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables or rice to make a complete meal.
  • Fresh parsley adds brightness; however, you can substitute with fresh cilantro or chives for a different herbaceous touch.

Find it online: https://justsosavory.com/lemon-butter-cod-recipe/