If you’re looking for a quick, restaurant-quality seafood dinner, this Sticky Garlic Butter Sweet Chili Cod is the perfect choice. Tender, flaky cod fillets are pan-seared in rich garlic butter, then coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy chili-lime glaze that caramelizes beautifully. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Servings
4
🔥🔥🔥 Ingredients
For the Cod
- 1 lb (500g) cod fillets, cut into wide strips or large chunks
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Sticky Sweet Chili Glaze
- 4 tbsp sweet chili sauce (Mae Ploy or Thai Kitchen work great)
- Juice of 1 fresh lime
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for an extra sticky glaze)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)
🔥🔥🔥 Instructions
1. Prepare the Cod
Pat the cod completely dry using paper towels. This step is essential for achieving a beautifully golden sear instead of steaming the fish. Season both sides generously with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Make the Sweet Chili Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, fresh lime juice, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger until smooth. Set aside while you cook the fish.
3. Sear the Fish
Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Carefully place the cod into the skillet in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes per side, allowing the fish to develop a golden, lightly crisp exterior while remaining tender and flaky inside.
4. Coat with the Sticky Glaze
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter, then pour the sweet chili glaze into the skillet. Let the sauce simmer gently for 1–2 minutes until it thickens into a glossy coating.
Using a spoon, continuously baste the cod with the bubbling sauce until every piece is covered in a rich, sticky garlic butter sweet chili glaze.
5. Serve
Serve immediately over fluffy jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or tucked inside warm taco shells. Spoon the remaining pan sauce over the top and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
Tips for the Best Sticky Garlic Butter Cod
- Pat the fish completely dry before cooking for the best golden crust.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even searing.
- Fresh lime juice provides the brightest flavor.
- Add red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers if you prefer extra heat.
- Pair with jasmine rice, coconut rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in only 20 minutes
- Sweet, savory, buttery, and perfectly balanced flavors
- Tender, flaky cod with a delicious sticky glaze
- Easy enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining
- Made with simple pantry ingredients and fresh seafood
