Garlic Butter Cod Strips

These garlic butter cod strips offer a quick, elegant dinner that combines tender flaky fish with a rich buttery garlic base and a bright, tangy sweet chili lime sauce. This dish is perfect for when you want something flavorful yet light that comes together in under 20 minutes. The simple seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika enhances the delicate cod without overpowering it, while the fresh parsley garnish adds a lovely touch of color and freshness.

I first made this on a whim when craving seafood and was amazed how quickly it became a family favorite. Now we request it whenever we want something light yet flavorful

Ingredients

• Cod fillets: Cut into strips choose fresh firm white fish for best texture
• Unsalted butter: Creates a rich base use good quality for a cleaner flavor
• Garlic cloves: Minced essential for that aromatic punch
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance all flavors
• Paprika: Adds mild warmth and color opt for sweet unless you like it spicy
• Fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish and a touch of herbal brightness
• Sweet chili sauce: Forms the base of the sauce providing a balanced sweet and spicy flavor choose one with a good chili kick but not overly sweet
• Lime juice and zest: Fresh lime juice and zest brighten the dish and add acidity
• Soy sauce: Brings depth and umami
• Sesame oil: Adds subtle nuttiness
• Sriracha: Optional for those who want a little extra heat

Instructions

Sauté the Garlic:

In a large skillet melt the butter over medium heat Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant and just starting to brown This step builds the garlic butter base without burning the garlic

Season the Cod:

Sprinkle both sides of the cod strips generously with salt pepper and paprika This simple seasoning enhances the mild cod nicely

Cook the Cod Strips:

Add the cod strips to the skillet and cook without moving them for three to four minutes on each side until the fish is opaque flaky and cooked through The butter and garlic infuse the fish as it cooks

Prepare the Sweet Chili Lime Sauce:

Meanwhile in a small bowl whisk together the sweet chili sauce lime juice lime zest soy sauce sesame oil and sriracha if using This sauce complements the rich cod with brightness and a little heat

Serve:

Drizzle the sweet chili lime sauce evenly over the cooked garlic butter cod strips and sprinkle with chopped parsley for freshness Serve immediately for best taste

My favorite part is how the lime zest lifts the flavors so the cod never tastes heavy One family dinner we made this we devoured the entire batch despite having a big spread It quickly became our go to for easy special meals

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying out the cod This helps retain the flaky texture without making the fish tough

Ingredient substitutions

If fresh cod is not available try other firm white fish like haddock or pollock Butter can be replaced with olive oil for a lighter option Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten free friendly dish

Serving suggestions

Serve over steamed jasmine rice or alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or snap peas complement the flavors beautifully and add texture

Drizzle the sauce over the cod and serve right away for best flavor. This simple dish makes an elegant quick weeknight dinner.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What kind of cod should I use for the dish?

Choose fresh cod fillets that are firm and thick enough to hold together in strips during cooking for the best texture.

→ How can I tell when the cod strips are properly cooked?

The cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Cooking takes about 3–4 minutes per side over medium heat.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?

Yes, you can add more or less Sriracha based on your preference, or omit it for a milder sauce.

→ What is the best way to serve the cod strips?

Serve warm with the sweet chili lime sauce drizzled over and garnished with fresh parsley to enhance brightness.

→ Is there a substitute for soy sauce in the sauce?

Tamari or coconut aminos work well as gluten-free alternatives with similar depth of flavor.