Tender, flaky cod baked to perfection and drenched in a vibrant chili lime butter sauce—this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. The combination of zesty citrus, aromatic garlic, and gentle heat from red chili creates a dish that is fresh, lively, and incredibly satisfying. Ideal for weeknight dinners or a light, elegant meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked cod dish is quick to prepare, healthy, and packed with flavor. It’s an excellent option when you want something both nourishing and exciting. The butter-based sauce is balanced by the brightness of lime and a touch of honey for sweetness, while the chili adds just the right amount of heat. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides—from steamed vegetables to grains or a crisp salad.

Ingredients

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

• 2 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red chili, finely chopped (adjust heat to taste)
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime slices, for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, garlic, chopped red chili, lime zest, lime juice, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish and pour the chili lime butter sauce evenly over the fish.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Once done, spoon the pan sauce over the fish and garnish with chopped cilantro and fresh lime slices.
6. Serve immediately with your choice of rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or use a hotter chili variety.
• Herb swap: Replace cilantro with parsley or basil for a different herbal finish.
• Citrus twist: Try using lemon or orange juice and zest instead of lime for a new flavor profile.
• Butter-free: Substitute the butter with extra olive oil for a lighter version.
• Different fish: Use halibut, tilapia, or haddock if cod is unavailable.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as it may dry out the fish.
Reheat with any reserved sauce or a splash of water to keep the fish moist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before baking.

What can I serve with this dish?

Rice, quinoa, couscous, roasted potatoes, or steamed vegetables all pair well.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it contains no gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.

How do I know when the cod is done?

The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is ideal.

Can I grill the cod instead?

Yes, but consider marinating it in the sauce for 15 minutes first, then grilling until done.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be mixed a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What type of chili should I use?

A red jalapeño or fresno chili works well. Adjust based on your preferred heat level.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply scale up the ingredients proportionally and use a larger baking dish.

Does this recipe work with skin-on fillets?

Yes, but place them skin-side down in the baking dish for best results.

Conclusion

Baked Cod with Chili Lime Butter Sauce is a fresh, flavorful meal that comes together quickly and effortlessly. With its buttery glaze, citrus brightness, and mild heat, it’s a satisfying dish suitable for any night of the week. Whether served with simple grains or a medley of vegetables, this cod recipe is both refined and comforting.

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