Tender, flaky cod strips seasoned with garlic butter and pan-seared until golden, then drizzled with a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy chili lime sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, light dinner, or served with rice, fries, or a fresh salad.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 4

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Ingredients

For the Cod

• 1½ lbs (680 g) cod fillets, cut into 1-inch strips
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for a light crust)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

For the Sweet Chili Lime Sauce

• ⅓ cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped cilantro (optional)

Optional Garnishes

• Lime wedges
• Chopped parsley
• Chopped cilantro
• Sesame seeds (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cod

1. Pat the cod strips dry with paper towels.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Lightly coat each cod strip with the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Cook the Cod

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cod strips in a single layer, working in batches if needed.
3. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
4. Transfer the cooked cod to a plate.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

1. Reduce the heat to medium.
2. Add the butter to the same skillet.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Return the cod strips to the skillet and gently toss to coat in the garlic butter.
5. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
   • Sweet chili sauce
   • Lime juice
   • Honey
   • Soy sauce
   • Lime zest
   • Red pepper flakes (if using)
   • Cilantro (if using)

Step 5: Serve

1. Arrange the garlic butter cod strips on a serving platter.
2. Drizzle with the sweet chili lime sauce or serve it on the side for dipping.
3. Garnish with lime wedges, parsley, cilantro, and sesame seeds if desired.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 345
• Protein: 34 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 11 g
• Sodium: 510 mg
• Calcium: 4% DV
• Iron: 8% DV
• Potassium: 620 mg

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Nut Information

Contains Peanuts: No

Contains Tree Nuts: No

This recipe is naturally free of peanuts and tree nuts.

Cross-Contamination Information

If preparing this recipe for someone with a nut allergy:

• Check the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, butter, and seasonings for allergen statements.
• Use certified nut-free products if needed.
• Prepare the fish with clean utensils, cookware, and cutting boards to prevent cross-contact.

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Frequently Asked Questions (Q&S)

Q1: Can I use frozen cod?

Yes. Thaw the cod completely in the refrigerator and pat it dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I bake the cod instead of pan-frying?

Yes. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes, then toss with the garlic butter before serving.

Q3: Can I air fry the cod?

Yes. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the cod strips for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Toss with the garlic butter after cooking.

Q4: What can I use instead of cod?

Haddock, pollock, halibut, mahi-mahi, tilapia, or even salmon work well in this recipe.

Q5: Is the sauce very spicy?

No. Sweet chili sauce is mildly spicy. Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha if you prefer extra heat.

Q6: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free flour (or skip the flour entirely) and gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Check that the sweet chili sauce is also gluten-free.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the sauce separate for the best texture.

Q8: Can I freeze cooked cod?

Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.

Q9: What side dishes go well with Garlic Butter Cod Strips?

They pair wonderfully with:

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Cilantro lime rice
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• French fries or sweet potato fries
• Roasted vegetables
• Coleslaw
• Garden salad
• Grilled asparagus
• Buttered green beans

Q10: How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist and tender.