Garlic Butter Cod Strips

These garlic butter cod strips offer a quick and elegant dinner that feels special yet is simple enough for any night. Tender flaky cod sautéed in rich garlic butter combines beautifully with a vibrant sweet chili lime sauce that brings brightness and a touch of heat. This dish balances buttery richness with tangy and savory notes for a satisfying meal that highlights the delicate flavor of fresh fish.

I first cooked this on a whim craving something light with big flavor and it instantly became a family favorite. Now we often request it when we want an easy dish that feels a bit fancy.

Ingredients

• Cod fillets, cut into strips: Choose fresh firm white fish for the best texture and to hold shape while cooking
• Unsalted butter: Creates a rich buttery base. Use good quality for a clean pure flavor
• Garlic cloves, minced: Essential for aromatic depth and that signature garlic butter taste
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances every other ingredient
• Paprika: Adds mild warmth and a lovely golden color. Use sweet paprika unless you want a bit of heat
• Fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a burst of herbal brightness and pretty color when garnished
• Sweet chili sauce: The foundation for sweet and spicy balance. Pick one with a good chili flavor that is not too sweet
• Lime juice and zest: Fresh lime brightens and lifts the sauce with acidity and fragrance
• Soy sauce: Brings savory depth and umami to the sauce
• Sesame oil: Adds subtle nuttiness for complexity
• Sriracha (optional): For extra heat if you prefer a spicier kick

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 careful cooking builds the garlic butter base without burning and ensures mellow rich flavors.

Season the Cod:

Sprinkle both sides of the cod strips generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. This simple yet flavorful seasoning elevates the mild cod and provides that appealing color.

Cook the Cod Strips:

Place cod strips in the hot skillet and cook without moving them for three to four minutes on each side until the fish turns opaque, flaky, and fully cooked through. The butter and garlic gently infuse the fish with flavor as it cooks.

Prepare the Sweet Chili Lime Sauce:

While the fish cooks whisk together sweet chili sauce, fresh lime juice and zest, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sriracha if using in a small bowl. This sauce brings bright tang and a balanced sweet heat to the dish.

Serve:

Drizzle the prepared sweet chili lime sauce evenly over the garlic butter cod strips then sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh color and herbaceous pop. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

I love how the lime zest lifts the whole recipe so the cod never feels heavy or too rich. One memorable family dinner we made a big batch and devoured every last bite despite having plenty of other dishes on the table. This quickly became our goto recipe for easy special meals that impress without fuss.

Storage tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to two days. Reheat gently either in a skillet over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave. Avoid high heat to prevent the cod from drying out and becoming tough.

Ingredient substitutions

If fresh cod is unavailable try similarly firm white fish such as haddock or pollock. Butter can be swapped for olive oil for a lighter option. Soy sauce works well but tamari is a good gluten-free alternative.

Serving suggestions

This dish shines served over steamed jasmine rice or alongside a crisp green salad to cut the richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or snap peas also make excellent accompaniments adding texture and color.

Enjoy this bright buttery cod for an easy weeknight dinner that feels special. It comes together quickly and pairs well with rice or a crisp salad.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of cod is best for this dish?

Fresh cod fillets that are firm and thick enough to cut into strips work best, helping the fish hold together while cooking and ensuring a tender texture.

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

Once the strips turn opaque and flake easily with a fork, usually after 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat, they are perfectly cooked.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness level of the sauce?

Yes, you can add more or less Sriracha or omit it entirely to suit your preferred heat level.

→ What are good serving suggestions for these cod strips?

Serve them warm with the sweet chili lime sauce drizzled on top and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. They pair well with steamed jasmine rice or a crisp green salad.

→ Is there an alternative to soy sauce in the sauce?

Tamari or coconut aminos can be used as gluten-free alternatives, offering a similar umami depth.