Name: Crispy Lemon Pepper Fish Fillets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 white fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or haddock); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon water; 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness); 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Vegetable oil, for frying; Lemon wedges, for serving

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These crispy lemon pepper fish fillets are lightly breaded and pan-seared to golden perfection, offering a zesty, flaky, and satisfying meal ready in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy outside, tender inside
Bursting with lemon-pepper flavor
Quick and easy to prepare
Pairs well with various sides

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

White fish fillets (tilapia, cod, or haddock)
Lemon zest
Cracked black pepper
Garlic powder
Paprika
All-purpose flour
Eggs
Panko or breadcrumbs
Olive oil or butter for frying
Fresh parsley
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions

In a bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, lemon zest, and pepper.
Dredge fish in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry fish for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 3–4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Use cornmeal for a Southern-style crust
Add cayenne for a spicy kick
Serve with tartar sauce or aioli

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

FAQs

Can I bake instead of fry the fish?

Yes, bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes until crispy.

What kind of fish works best?

Mild, white fish fillets like cod, tilapia, or flounder.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely, it has mild seasoning and crispy texture.

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, thaw and pat dry before breading.

How do I prevent sogginess?

Drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels.

Can I add herbs?

Yes, dill or parsley in the coating adds freshness.

What oil is best for frying?

Neutral oils like canola or light olive oil.

Can I use a cast iron skillet?

Yes, it holds heat well and browns evenly.

Is marinating necessary?

Not required, but a lemon juice soak enhances flavor.

Conclusion

Crispy lemon pepper fish fillets deliver bold flavor and satisfying crunch in every bite. Quick, adaptable, and family-approved, they make for a perfect weekday dinner.

Crispy Lemon Pepper Fish Fillets

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Crispy Lemon Pepper Fish Fillets are light, flaky white fish coated in a zesty lemon pepper breading and fried until golden and crispy. A perfect quick meal with bold flavor and crunch.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels.
Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and water, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Coat each fillet in flour, dip into the egg mixture, then dredge in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), add the fish fillets in batches and fry for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer the cooked fillets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve hot with lemon wedges.