The Best Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Seafood enthusiasts crave a lemon butter fish fillet that sings with bright, tangy flavors.

This simple yet elegant dish brings restaurant-quality magic to your home kitchen.

Fresh fish meets zesty citrus in a mouthwatering combination that promises to delight your taste buds.

butter creates a rich, silky sauce that perfectly complements the delicate fish.

Each bite offers a harmonious blend of subtle oceanic notes and bright lemon essence.

The recipe transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a culinary celebration.

Prepare to savor every delectable moment of this irresistible seafood experience.

Storing Fish Fillets To Retain Freshness

• Store leftover fish fillets in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 1-2 days maximum to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Wrap individual fish fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month to preserve texture and flavor.
• Place fish on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent toughness.

FAQs

• How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?

The fish is ready when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F, and the flesh should look white and easily separate.

• Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

Yes, thaw the fish completely before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and ensure a crispy exterior when pan-frying.

• What type of fish works best for this recipe?

White fish like cod, halibut, tilapia, or sea bass are excellent choices. They have mild flavors that complement the zesty lemon butter sauce perfectly.

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet: Fresh & Flavorful

• Whip up this zesty fish dish in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy home cooks who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• The combination of tangy lemon, rich butter, and herbs creates a mouthwatering sauce that transforms ordinary fish into an extraordinary culinary experience.
• Ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or impressing guests with a restaurant-quality dish that requires minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients.
• Packed with lean protein and bright, fresh flavors, this fish recipe offers a nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on taste or satisfaction.

The Essentials For Lemon Butter Fish Fillet

• Fish Fillets: Tender white fish that serves as the star of this zesty dish.
• Flour: Creates a light, crispy coating for the fish.
• Olive Oil: Provides a rich base for cooking the fish to golden perfection.
• Butter: Forms the foundation of the creamy lemon sauce.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the fish's natural flavor.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic depth to the sauce.
• Lemon Zest: Brings bright, citrusy notes to the dish.
• Chopped Parsley: Provides a fresh, herbal finish to the recipe.

• Chicken Broth, Lemon Juice: Create a tangy and flavorful sauce base that complements the fish.

• Lemon Slices, Additional Chopped Parsley: Adds a fresh, decorative touch to the final presentation.

Tools For Perfect, Flaky Fish Fillets

• Large Skillet: Essential for cooking fish and creating the lemon butter sauce, preferably non-stick.
• Paper Towels: Crucial for drying fish fillets to ensure crispy exterior.
• Shallow Dish: Perfect for dredging fish in flour mixture.
• Cutting Board: Needed for preparing lemon zest and chopping parsley.
• Sharp Knife: Required for zesting lemon and chopping herbs.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Help measure ingredients accurately.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Useful for stirring sauce and flipping fish.
• Serving Platter: For presenting the final dish attractively.

Cooking Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Like A Pro

Step 1: Prepare The Delectable Fish

Grab some paper towels and gently pat the fish fillets until completely dry.

Mix flour, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish.

Lovingly coat each fillet in the seasoned flour, shaking off any extra powder for a light, crispy texture.

Step 2: Sizzle The Fish To Golden Perfection

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Carefully slide the fish fillets into the hot pan.

Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they transform into a beautiful golden brown and are fully cooked through.

Tenderly remove the fish and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Craft The Luxurious Lemon Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Toss in minced garlic and let it dance around for about 1 minute until wonderfully fragrant.

Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to create a harmonious blend.

Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Enhance With Bright Citrus Notes

Sprinkle in the lemon zest and freshly chopped parsley.

Gently return the cooked fish fillets to the skillet, generously spooning the sauce over the top to ensure every inch is gloriously coated.

Step 5: Plate And Present

Transfer the fish fillets to a beautiful serving platter.

Decorate with delicate lemon slices and a final sprinkle of chopped parsley.

Serve immediately while the sauce is warm and inviting.

Tips For Bright, Zesty Fish Every Time

• Choose high-quality, firm white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia for the best texture and flavor absorption.
• Always thoroughly dry fish fillets with paper towels to ensure a golden, crispy exterior when pan-frying.
• Maintain medium-high heat to achieve perfect browning without burning the delicate fish or flour coating.
• Allow lemon butter sauce to simmer and reduce slightly, concentrating flavors and creating a richer, more intense taste profile.
• Add fresh parsley and lemon slices just before serving to brighten the dish and provide visual appeal and extra zesty notes.

Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Variations For Foodies

• Herb-Crusted Fish Delight: Replace flour with a mix of breadcrumbs, dried thyme, rosemary, and grated parmesan for a crispy, herbal coating that adds extra flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free Ocean Feast: Swap wheat flour with almond flour or cornmeal to create a light, gluten-free crust that's perfect for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Spicy Mediterranean Style: Add red pepper flakes and smoked paprika to the flour mixture, then finish the sauce with capers and a splash of white wine for a Mediterranean-inspired kick.
• Low-Carb Keto Fish Option: Skip the flour coating entirely and use crushed pork rinds or ground almonds as a zero-carb alternative that delivers a satisfying crunch.

Ways To Serve Up Lemon Butter Fish With Sides

• Seafood Sidekick Delight: Pair the zesty lemon butter fish with fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Bright Green Companions: Serve alongside roasted asparagus or steamed green beans for a fresh, crisp vegetable complement.
• Crusty Bread Bonus: Include warm, crusty bread to mop up the tangy lemon butter sauce and capture every last drop of flavor.
• Wine Pairing Magic: Enhance the dish with a chilled glass of crisp sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio that matches the fish's light, citrusy profile.

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet Recipe

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4.6 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Quick and elegant lemon butter fish fillet showcases delicate seafood with bright citrus notes. Mediterranean-inspired flavors deliver simple yet sophisticated meal perfect for home cooks seeking restaurant-quality results you’ll savor with each delightful bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
• 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) lemon juice

Seasoning and Coating:

• 1/4 cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon

Garnish and Finishing:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (8 grams) fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon slices (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly dry fish fillets using paper towels to ensure a crisp coating and optimal browning.
2. Create a seasoned flour mixture by blending flour with salt and black pepper in a shallow dish.
3. Delicately coat each fillet in the seasoned flour, gently tapping off excess to prevent clumping.
4. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, approximately 2-3 minutes.
5. Carefully place floured fillets into the hot skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side until achieving a golden-brown exterior and flaky interior.
6. Remove cooked fish from skillet and set aside on a clean plate.
7. Reduce skillet heat to medium and melt butter, creating a smooth base for the sauce.
8. Introduce minced garlic to the melted butter, sautéing for 60 seconds until fragrant and releasing its aromatic qualities.
9. Pour chicken broth and fresh lemon juice into the skillet, whisking to create a harmonious liquid mixture.
10. Allow sauce to simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes, concentrating the flavors.
11. Incorporate lemon zest and chopped parsley, stirring to distribute evenly throughout the sauce.
12. Gently return fish fillets to the skillet, carefully coating them with the vibrant lemon butter sauce.
13. Plate the fish on a serving platter, adorning with fresh lemon slices and additional parsley for a bright, elegant presentation.
14. Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal temperature and texture of the dish.

Notes

• Ensure fish is completely dry before coating to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in moisture and flavor.
• Choose fresh, high-quality white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia for the best texture and taste in this recipe.
• Adjust cooking time based on fish thickness to prevent overcooking, which can make the fish dry and tough.
• For a gluten-free version, swap wheat flour with almond flour or cornstarch to maintain the crispy coating.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg