18 Crispy Breaded Fish Recipes for Every Occasion

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further! Crispy breaded fish is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and flaky or bold and spicy, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 crispy breaded fish recipes.

From traditional beer-battered fish and chips to innovative twists like panko-crusted lemon garlic tilapia and coconut breaded mahi-mahi, there’s a recipe here that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And the best part? Each dish is easy to make and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

In this article, we’ll be sharing all 18 of our favorite crispy breaded fish recipes, each with its own unique flavor profile and texture. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, you won’t want to miss these mouthwatering dishes.

Classic Beer-Battered Fish and Chips

Classic Beer-Battered Fish and Chips Recipe

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this timeless recipe for beer-battered fish and chips. Crisp, golden battered fish served alongside fluffy, hand-cut chips (fries) is a match made in heaven.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, cut into chunks
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold beer
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chip (fry) shapes

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add beer, whisking until smooth and free of lumps.
3. Dip fish chunks into the batter, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
5. Fry battered fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, fry potato chips in batches until crispy and golden, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
7. Drain excess oil from the fried items using paper towels.
8. Serve beer-battered fish with hand-cut chip (fry) accompaniment and enjoy!

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.

Panko-Crusted Lemon Garlic Tilapia

Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and tender Panko-crusted tilapia, infused with the zest of lemon and the richness of garlic. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Spicy Cajun Breaded Catfish

Get ready for a taste of the Bayou with this spicy and savory catfish recipe, perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. Crispy breading and bold Cajun seasonings will have you hooked!

Ingredients:

– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the breading mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry breaded catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as hushpuppies or coleslaw.

Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes.

Parmesan Herb Crusted Cod

Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive Parmesan Herb Crusted Cod recipe. Flaky cod fillets are coated in a crunchy mixture of parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and breadcrumbs for a dish that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together parmesan cheese, parsley, and lemon zest.
4. Dip each cod fillet into the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place coated cod on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Top each fillet with breadcrumbs.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Air Fryer Breaded Haddock

Get ready to enjoy a crispy and flavorful seafood treat with this simple air fryer recipe. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be savoring delicious breaded haddock in no time.

Ingredients:

– 4 haddock fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each haddock fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the breaded haddock in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each fillet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and sprinkle with any additional seasonings (if using).
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Cornmeal-Crusted Fried Perch

This recipe yields a deliciously crispy exterior and flaky interior, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With the subtle flavor of cornmeal adding depth to the perch, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients:

– 4 freshwater perch fillets (about 6 ounces each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornmeal, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each perch fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the cornmeal mixture to coat evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated perch for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Coconut Breaded Mahi-Mahi

This tropical-inspired dish is a perfect blend of crispy coconut breading and tender mahi-mahi, served with a side of tangy citrus sauce. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 mahi-mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lime wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut.
3. Dip each mahi-mahi fillet into the melted butter, then coat in the coconut breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with any remaining butter.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve immediately with a squeeze of fresh lime juice (if desired) and your favorite side dishes.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Crunchy Almond-Crusted Salmon

Crunchy Almond-Crusted Salmon: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Dish!

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup almond meal
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together almond meal, olive oil, lemon zest, and garlic powder.
3. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each salmon fillet into the almond mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Greek-Style Breaded Red Snapper

A Mediterranean twist on a classic dish, this Greek-style breaded red snapper is crispy, flavorful, and sure to impress. With its bold blend of herbs and spices, this recipe will transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Greece.

Ingredients:

– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each red snapper fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place breaded fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Garlic Butter Breaded Swai

Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Breaded Swai recipe, perfect for a weeknight treat or special occasion. This crispy and flavorful dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:
– 4 swai fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Dip each swai fillet in the garlic butter mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Dredge the coated fish in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the breaded fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Japanese Tempura Breaded Fish

This classic Japanese dish is a staple of any sushi restaurant menu. Crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, this tempura breaded fish recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 pieces of firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tempura batter mix (available at most Asian grocery stores)
– Optional: sesame seeds and grated daikon radish for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add soda water to the mixture, stirring until smooth.
3. Dip each piece of fish into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the battered fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Zesty Lime Breaded Tilapia

Elevate your seafood game with this zesty and tangy tilapia recipe, perfectly seasoned with lime zest and breadcrumbs. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp grated lime zest
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lime zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spray tilapia fillets with cooking spray or brush with oil.
4. Dip each fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with lime juice and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Old Bay Seasoned Breaded Flounder

Crunchy on the outside, flaky on the inside – this Old Bay seasoned breaded flounder is a seafood lover’s dream come true. With a perfect blend of spices and crispy breadcrumbs, it’s an easy and impressive dish to serve.

Ingredients:

– 4 flounder fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. In a separate dish, whisk together flour and eggs to make the breading mixture.
3. Dip each flounder fillet in the breading mixture, coating evenly, then roll in breadcrumb mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry breaded flounder for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total (frying time: 6-8 minutes)

Gluten-Free Breaded Halibut

A simple and delicious recipe that combines the flaky texture of halibut with a crispy gluten-free breading, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup gluten-free panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. In a separate dish, beat eggs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each halibut fillet into the beaten eggs, then coat in gluten-free flour, shaking off excess.
5. Dredge floured fillets in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place coated halibut on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Sweet and Spicy Breaded Trout

Experience the perfect balance of sweet and heat with this crispy breaded trout recipe. Pan-seared to perfection, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds!

Ingredients:

– 4 trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Dip each trout fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated trout on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with melted butter and squeeze lemon slices over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Herbed Breaded Sole with Lemon Aioli

Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and refreshing sole dish, perfectly seasoned with herbs and topped with a zesty lemon aioli.

Ingredients:

– 4 sole fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Lemon Aioli (recipe below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, parsley, dill, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each sole fillet in beaten eggs, then coat with the herb mixture.
4. Place coated sole on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with Lemon Aioli (recipe below).

Lemon Aioli:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Blackened Breaded Grouper

A Southern favorite, blackened breaded grouper is a flavorful and crispy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the tender flaky fish with a spicy blackening seasoning and crunchy breading for a delightful treat.

Ingredients:

– 4 grouper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each grouper fillet in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
4. Dredge coated fillets in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place breaded fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the fish.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
8. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Maple Dijon Breaded Walleye

Elevate your walleye game with this sweet and savory dish, featuring a crispy maple dijon breading that adds a depth of flavor to the delicate fish.

Ingredients:

– 4 walleye fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Season walleye fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry breaded walleye for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Transfer fish to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to catch some deliciousness with these 18 crispy breaded fish recipes! From classic beer-battered fish and chips to panko-crusted lemon garlic tilapia, there’s something for every occasion. Try spicy Cajun breaded catfish or parmesan herb crusted cod for a flavorful twist. For a lighter option, air fryer breaded haddock is a great choice. And don’t forget about sweet and spicy breaded trout or herbed breaded sole with lemon aioli – perfect for a special occasion. Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s a breaded fish recipe to satisfy!

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