Your Basic Panfried Fish
Discover the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor with "Your Basic Panfried Fish," a quick and easy recipe that transforms everyday fish fillets into a golden, crispy masterpiece. This 20-minute dish uses staples like all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper to create a light, flavorful coating, while optional additions like paprika, butter, and fresh parsley elevate the taste to restaurant-quality levels. With just a skillet and a few pantry ingredients, you’ll achieve perfectly seared fish fillets that are tender on the inside and irresistibly crisp on the outside. Garnish with lemon wedges and serve with your favorite sides—whether it’s a vibrant salad, fluffy rice, or hearty roasted vegetables—for an effortlessly delicious meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual entertaining, this pan-fried fish is a go-to crowd-pleaser.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces fish fillets (e.g., cod, haddock, or tilapia)
- 0.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoons paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for extra flavor)
- 4 pieces lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and ensure a crispy exterior.
In a shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix well.
Dredge each fillet in the flour mixture, ensuring an even, thin coating on both sides. Shake off any excess flour.
Heat a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter (if using) to the skillet.
Once the oil is shimmering and the butter has melted, place the coated fish fillets into the skillet. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
Cook the fillets for 3-4 minutes on the first side, or until golden brown and crisp. Flip carefully using a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The fish should flake easily with a fork when done.
Transfer the cooked fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley (if using). Pair with your favorite side dishes such as a salad, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1062 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 57.3 g | 73% | |
| Saturated Fat | 14.0 g | 70% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 231 mg | 77% | |
| Sodium | 2609 mg | 113% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 52.4 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.9 g | 14% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.3 g | ||
| Protein | 87.4 g | 175% | |
| Vitamin D | 20.2 mcg | 101% | |
| Calcium | 162 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 5.3 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 1494 mg | 32% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
