A bright, flavorful, and perfectly tender fish fillet infused with fresh lemon and rich butter. This quick and elegant dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table with minimal effort, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is light yet satisfying, with a beautiful balance of citrusy freshness and buttery richness. The lemon enhances the natural flavor of the fish without overpowering it, while a gentle blend of garlic and herbs adds depth.

You’ll love this recipe because it:

• Comes together in under 30 minutes
• Uses simple, fresh ingredients
• Is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks
• Pairs well with rice, vegetables, or salad
• Feels elegant but requires minimal preparation

It’s a reliable, foolproof dish that delivers bold flavor with very little effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, haddock, or halibut), about 6 ounces / 170 g each
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest (from 1 large lemon)
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chicken or vegetable broth
Lemon slices, for garnish

Directions

1. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
3. Once the butter has melted and begins to foam slightly, place the fish fillets in the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side without moving them.
4. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce the heat to low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet.
6. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.
7. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and broth. Let the sauce simmer gently for 1–2 minutes until slightly reduced.
8. Return the fish to the skillet and spoon the lemon butter sauce over the fillets. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
9. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and garnish with lemon slices before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 25 minutes

Variations

Garlic Herb Version
Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme or dill to the sauce for a more herb-forward flavor.

Spicy Lemon Butter Fish
Add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the butter sauce for a gentle heat.

Creamy Lemon Sauce
Stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream at the end of cooking for a richer, slightly creamy finish.

Oven-Baked Method
Instead of pan-frying, bake the seasoned fish at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, then pour the prepared lemon butter sauce over the top before serving.

Mediterranean Style
Add 2 tablespoons of capers and a handful of halved cherry tomatoes to the sauce for extra brightness and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage
Allow the fish to cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing
You can freeze cooked fish for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a small splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. You may also reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–10 minutes. Avoid overheating, as fish can become dry and tough.

FAQs

What type of fish works best for this recipe?

Firm white fish like cod, haddock, halibut, or tilapia works best because they hold their shape and absorb the lemon butter flavor beautifully.

How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?

The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen fish fillets?

Yes, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative or use additional olive oil.

Why is my fish sticking to the pan?

Ensure the pan is properly heated and the oil and butter are hot before adding the fish. Avoid moving the fillets too soon.

Can I prepare the lemon butter sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to 2 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, couscous, or a fresh green salad complement this dish very well.

Can I bake the fish instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely. Baking is a great alternative and produces tender, evenly cooked fillets.

How can I prevent overcooking the fish?

Cook over medium heat and monitor closely. Fish cooks quickly, usually within 6–8 minutes total depending on thickness.

Can I double the sauce?

Yes, you can easily double the lemon butter sauce if you prefer extra sauce for serving over rice or vegetables.

Conclusion

Zesty Lemon Butter Fish Fillet is a simple yet impressive dish that delivers vibrant flavor with minimal effort. The combination of fresh lemon, rich butter, and tender fish creates a balanced meal that feels both comforting and refined. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is a dependable favorite that will quickly become part of your regular rotation.

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