Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Sweet Chili Lime Sauce Recipe
Description
Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Sweet Chili Lime Sauce is a delicious seafood recipe that combines tender, flaky cod with rich garlic butter flavor and a sweet, spicy, citrusy dipping sauce. This easy dish delivers restaurant-quality taste with simple ingredients and a quick cooking process. The cod strips are lightly seasoned, cooked until golden and perfectly tender, then finished with a buttery garlic herb coating that enhances the natural flavor of the fish. The sweet chili lime sauce adds the perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and freshness, making every bite incredibly satisfying. This recipe is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, quick lunch, meal prep, or a seafood appetizer for gatherings. Cod is naturally high in protein, low in calories, and has a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with bold seasonings. Serve these garlic butter cod strips with roasted vegetables, rice, salad, or your favorite dipping sides for a complete and flavorful meal.
Ingredients For the Garlic Butter Cod Strips
1 ½ pounds fresh cod fillets, cut into strips
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Sweet Chili Lime Sauce
¼ cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 small garlic clove, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
For Serving
Lime wedges
Fresh herbs
Steamed vegetables or rice (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels. Cutting the fish into evenly sized strips helps them cook quickly and evenly. Season the cod strips with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Gently coat each piece with the seasoning mixture.
Cook the Cod Strips
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned cod strips and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until the fish becomes golden on the outside and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking because cod can become dry if cooked too long.
Prepare the Garlic Butter
Reduce the heat and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in dried parsley, chili flakes, and lemon juice. Spoon the garlic butter over the cod strips to coat them with rich flavor.
Make the Sweet Chili Lime Sauce
In a small bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, lime juice, lime zest, soy sauce, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and cilantro. Mix well until smooth. Adjust the spice level according to your preference.
Serve the Cod
Transfer the garlic butter cod strips onto a serving plate. Drizzle with extra garlic butter sauce and garnish with fresh parsley. Place the sweet chili lime sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy Fresh
Serve immediately while the cod is warm and tender. Dip each piece into the sweet chili lime sauce for the perfect combination of buttery, savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.
Tips & Notes
Always pat cod dry before seasoning to help achieve a better golden crust.
Do not overcook cod; it is ready when it flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Fresh cod works best, but frozen cod can be used after completely thawing and drying.
Add extra lime juice at serving time for a brighter flavor.
For a crispy version, coat the cod lightly with breadcrumbs before cooking.
Use the same garlic butter sauce over vegetables or rice for extra flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Reheat gently to prevent the fish from becoming tough.
Q&A
Can I use another fish instead of cod?
Yes. Haddock, tilapia, halibut, or pollock can work well with the same recipe.
Can I bake the cod strips instead of pan cooking?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until the fish flakes easily.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes. Cod is a lean protein source and this recipe uses simple ingredients while providing plenty of flavor.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes. The sweet chili lime sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Sweet Chili Lime Sauce is a simple yet impressive seafood recipe that brings together buttery garlic flavors with a refreshing sweet and spicy dip. Perfect for busy nights or special dinners, this dish proves that healthy meals can also be incredibly delicious.
