Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Sweet Chili Lime Sauce

Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Sweet Chili Lime Sauce are light, flaky, and packed with bold flavor. Tender cod is sliced into strips, quickly cooked in rich garlic butter, and served with a glossy sweet chili lime sauce that adds the perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and citrus. This dish comes together fast, making it ideal for weeknight dinners while still feeling elegant enough for guests.

Ingredients

For the Cod

600 g fresh cod fillets, skinless and boneless
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ cup all-purpose flour (for light coating)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Sweet Chili Lime Sauce

¼ cup sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional)
½ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Equipment Needed

Large skillet or frying pan
Mixing bowls
Tongs or spatula
Small bowl for sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels. Cut them into long, even strips about 1 inch wide. Season the cod strips with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Lightly coat each piece with flour, shaking off any excess. This thin coating helps create a delicate crust while keeping the fish moist.

Step 2: Make the Sweet Chili Lime Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, lime zest, and honey if using. Add crushed red chili flakes for extra spice. Set the sauce aside so the flavors can blend.

Step 3: Cook the Cod Strips

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod strips in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork.

Remove the cod from the pan and place on a warm plate.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Return the cod strips to the skillet and gently toss them in the garlic butter to coat evenly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and drizzle the sweet chili lime sauce over the cod strips, or serve it on the side for dipping. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

These garlic butter cod strips pair beautifully with:

Steamed jasmine or coconut rice
Roasted vegetables or asparagus
Fresh green salad with citrus dressing
Warm tortillas for fish tacos

Add extra lime wedges on the side for a bright finishing touch.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the fish.
The sauce can be stored separately for up to 5 days.

Tips & Variations

Substitute cod with haddock, tilapia, or halibut.
For a crispy version, air-fry the cod strips at 200°C (400°F) for 10 minutes.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
Serve with creamy coleslaw for contrast.