🐟 Crispy Pan Fried Fish (Ready in 5 Minutes)

🐟 Crispy Pan Fried Fish (Ready in 5 Minutes)

Quick, budget-friendly, and perfectly crispy on the outside with flaky, juicy fish inside. This method works great for both fresh and frozen fillets.


⭐ Why You’ll Love It

  • Ready in under 10 minutes

  • Uses simple pantry ingredients

  • No deep frying needed

  • Golden, crispy crust every time

  • Delicious with just lemon or any sauce you like


πŸ›’ Ingredients (Serves 2)

  • 2 thin fish fillets (5–6 oz each) – tilapia, cod, or haddock

  • Salt & black pepper (to taste)

  • ΒΌ cup all-purpose flour (or rice flour)

  • 1 tsp paprika (optional)

  • 2–3 tbsp vegetable, canola, or peanut oil

  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

  • Chopped parsley or dill (optional garnish)


🍳 Instructions

  1. Dry the fish:
    Pat fillets completely dry using paper towels.

  2. Season:
    Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.

  3. Coat with flour:
    Dredge fish in flour, pressing lightly. Shake off excess.

  4. Heat the pan:
    Heat a heavy skillet on medium-high until hot. Add oil to lightly coat the bottom.

  5. Cook:
    Place fish in pan without overcrowding.
    Cook 2–3 minutes without moving until golden and crispy.

  6. Flip:
    Gently turn and cook another 2 minutes until fully cooked and flaky.

  7. Serve:
    Remove from pan and serve hot with lemon wedges and herbs.


βœ… Pro Tips

  • Always heat pan before adding oil

  • Do not move fish too soon β€” it will release naturally

  • Thicker fillets need 1–2 extra minutes per side

  • Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork


πŸ₯£ Sauce Ideas (Optional)

  • Lemon butter sauce

  • Garlic mayo

  • Creamy dill sauce

  • Tartar sauce

  • White wine butter sauce


πŸ•’ Make-Ahead Tip

You can coat the fish in flour and store in the fridge up to 24 hours before frying.


This crispy pan-fried fish pairs perfectly with:
βœ” Rice
βœ” Salad
βœ” Roasted vegetables
βœ” Mashed potatoes

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