Description
A quick and easy weeknight dinner featuring firm white fish coated in a seasoned flour, egg, and panko breadcrumb mixture, pan-fried to golden perfection for a crispy, flaky result.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 white fish fillets (cod, haddock, tilapia, or snapper), approx. 6 oz each and 1 inch thick
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 pinch paprika
- 1/4 cup high-smoke-point oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Pat fish fillets completely dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
- Dredge each fillet in the flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the egg wash, and finally press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Let breaded fish rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the coating to set.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place fish fillets in the hot oil, ensuring they do not overlap. Fry for 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden brown and crispy.
- Flip fish carefully and fry the second side for another 3-4 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and flesh flakes easily.
- Remove fish from pan and place on a wire rack to drain. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
Ensure fish is completely dry before dredging to prevent coating from sliding off. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain oil temperature. Let breaded fish rest for 5-10 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere. If using almond flour for gluten-free/low-carb versions, reduce heat slightly as it burns faster.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with sides
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: pan fried fish, crispy fish, weeknight dinner, healthy fish recipe, cod, tilapia, quick meals, gluten-free option