Go Back
Easy Lemon Butter Cod Recipe photo

Lemon Butter Cod Recipe

This Lemon Butter Cod Recipe is SO EASY! Bright lemon, rich butter, and tender cod combine for a quick, flavorful weeknight meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Spatula
  • Whisk
  • Serving plate

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), 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
  • 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 for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to help seasoning adhere and ensure a nice sear.
  • In a shallow dish, mix all-purpose flour, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
  • Dredge each cod fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  • Add the cod fillets carefully to the pan and cook about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and flaky.
  • Remove the fillets from the skillet and place on a serving plate.
  • Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté about 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding burning.
  • Pour in low-sodium chicken broth and fresh lemon juice, scraping up browned bits from the pan bottom.
  • Reduce heat to low and add Danish Creamery Butter pieces one at a time, stirring until melted and smooth.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  • Return cod fillets to the skillet and spoon lemon butter sauce over them. Warm through for 1 minute.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Patting the cod dry before seasoning helps achieve a crispy exterior.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for a brighter, fresher flavor in the sauce.
  • Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of chicken broth to keep the fish moist.
Keyword Easy, Fish, Healthy, Quick, Seafood