Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Sweet Chili Lime Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor and feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’re absolutely going to love these Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Sweet Chili Lime Sauce. This recipe is a brilliant balance of tender, flaky cod strips bathed in fragrant garlic butter, paired with a lively sweet chili lime sauce that brings that perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and a slight kick. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends over the weekend, this dish delivers bold flavors while remaining surprisingly simple to prepare.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Sweet Chili Lime Sauce recipe is carefully chosen to enhance the flavors without overwhelming the delicate cod. You’ll find a harmony of richness, brightness, and a bit of zest that creates a memorable meal.

• Cod fillets (1 lb/450 g): Use thick, fresh cod strips for the best flaky texture and mild flavor.
• Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps carry the garlic aroma wonderfully.
• Olive oil (1 tbsp): Keeps the cod from sticking and balances the butter’s richness.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings an irresistible, savory punch that clings to the fish.
• Paprika (½ tsp): Adds a subtle smokiness and a hint of color to the strips.
• Salt (½ tsp): Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
• Black pepper (¼ tsp): Gives a light heat and complexity without overpowering.
• Fresh lime juice (from ½ lime): Finishes the dish with a bright, zesty lift that wakes up your taste buds.
• Sweet chili sauce (¼ cup): The foundation of the sauce bringing sweetness with a spicy depth.
• Honey (1 tbsp): Balances heat and acidity with natural sweetness.
• Lime juice (from 1 lime): Adds fresh citrus brightness to the sauce for a lively contrast.
• Soy sauce or tamari (1 tsp): A touch of umami that deepens the overall flavor.
• Grated fresh garlic or ginger (½ tsp, optional): Adds extra complexity to the sweet chili lime sauce.
• Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish): Brightens presentations and adds a herbal freshness.
• Lime wedges (for serving): Perfect for adding an extra citrus squeeze at the table.

How to Make Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Sweet Chili Lime Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Chili Lime Sauce

Begin by whisking together the sweet chili sauce, honey, lime juice, soy sauce, and the optional grated garlic or ginger in a small bowl. This sauce is the star partner of your cod strips, blending sweetness, tang, and umami that will complement each buttery bite beautifully. Set this vibrant sauce aside while you cook the fish.

Step 2: Season the Cod Strips

Pat the cod strips dry with paper towels to ensure they sear nicely. Evenly season them with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This seasoning layer is crucial, enhancing the fish’s natural flavor and imparting a hint of smokiness and spice that pairs perfectly with the sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Cod to Perfection

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant and golden, filling your kitchen with that irresistible garlicky aroma. Then arrange the seasoned cod strips in a single layer in the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, allowing each side to develop a golden crust while keeping the inside tender and flaky.

Step 4: Finish with Lime and Sauce

Once the cod is cooked through, squeeze fresh lime juice over the strips to brighten the flavors. Gently spoon some of the sweet chili lime sauce over the top, letting it mingle with the buttery garlic coating. This last step perfectly balances richness and tanginess, making every bite unforgettable.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Transfer your cod strips to a serving plate, drizzle additional sauce on top if you like, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. Add lime wedges on the side for a splash of color and an extra citrusy kick to customize each serving.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Sweet Chili Lime Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro really lift this dish with a pop of green color and some herbal brightness. Lime wedges are more than just decoration; they invite everyone to add freshly squeezed juice, enhancing the zesty notes already in the dish. A sprinkle of chili flakes can add a bit of heat if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

These cod strips pair wonderfully with simple steamed jasmine rice or fluffy coconut rice to soak up the luscious sauce. A crunchy Asian-inspired slaw or a light, cucumber salad offers refreshing contrast and texture. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or garlic mashed potatoes are equally fantastic accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress your guests, arrange the cod strips over a bed of rice or noodles, then drizzle extra sauce on top. Serving in small bowls as part of a tapas-style meal encourages sharing and keeps things casual and fun. You can also skewer the strips and serve with dipping sauce on the side for a playful appetizer option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover cod strips in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days, although the texture of the fish is at its best on the day it’s cooked.

Freezing

Freezing cooked cod can sometimes alter its texture, so it’s best to freeze the cod strips raw if you want to prepare in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before cooking fresh according to the recipe.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, gently warm the cod strips in a non-stick skillet over low heat to prevent them from drying out. You can spoon a little butter or reserved sauce over them to keep them moist and flavorful. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the cod rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod offers a mild flavor and flaky texture ideal for this dish, you can substitute with haddock, tilapia, or even halibut. Just keep cooking times in mind—thicker fish may need a bit longer to cook through.

Is the sweet chili lime sauce spicy?

The sauce has a gentle heat thanks to the sweet chili sauce, but it mainly delivers a balanced sweetness with bright lime tang. You can adjust the spice level by adding more chili sauce or incorporating chili flakes if you prefer more heat.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sweet chili lime sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes meal prep quicker when you’re ready to cook your cod, and the flavors tend to meld and deepen over time.

What sides complement Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Sweet Chili Lime Sauce best?

Simple sides that don’t overpower the fish work best. Think fluffy rice, light salads, or roasted veggies. Asian-inspired slaws or coconut rice add a nice tropical or tangy twist that pairs beautifully with the sauce.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Just be sure to use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute for regular soy sauce in the sweet chili lime sauce, and check that your sweet chili sauce is labeled gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Trying these Garlic Butter Cod Strips with Sweet Chili Lime Sauce is like inviting a burst of sunshine and comfort into your kitchen. It’s a recipe that’s as satisfying to prepare as it is to eat, with bright, bold flavors that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. So grab some fresh cod and get ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to a truly delicious meal—your taste buds will thank you!