How to Cook Fish in a Skillet

overhead shot of salmon, broccoli, and lemon wedges on a plate next to rice pilaf and tartar sauce cup.

How to Cook Fish in a Skillet

Cooking fish in a skillet is a quick and easy way to get dinner on the table. With this easy fish recipe, you can cook any kind of fish for delicious results - there are only three ingredients and it cooks in less than 20 minutes!

Prep Time5

Cook Time15

Total Time20

Course: Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Diet: Gluten Free

Servings:

Calories: 171kcal

Author: Jessica Fisher

Cost: $6

Ingredients

2 filets fish of your choice 3 to 6 ounces each
seasoning of your choice , such as fish rub or salt and pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
optional toppings for fish , such as tartar sauce, herb butter, lemon slices, etc.

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Season the fish with salt, pepper, or other fish seasoning
2 filets fish of your choice, seasoning of your choice
In a large nonstick skillet, heat the oil until shimmering. Place the fish in the hot pan skin side up and cook 4 to 5 minutes. Turn, and continue cooking until the fish pulls apart easily, about 4 minutes more.
1 tablespoon olive oil
Remove the fish from the pan and serve with optional toppings.
optional toppings for fish

Notes

Promptly store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, for up to 3 days.

Nutritional values are approximate and based on 1 piece of fish.

Ingredient notes:

oil - You can use olive oil, butter, or some other cooking fat even cooking spray, but be generous lest the delicate fish stick to the pan.
fish fillets or steaks – You can find almost any type of fish available at the grocery store, but some are better than others. Consult this seafood guide for what’s most sustainable for where you live and keep an eye out for sales. White-fleshed fish typically has a mild flavor, while salmon or red snapper are more heavily flavored.
spices - Kosher salt and black pepper or another seasoning are simple ways to season fish. I typically make my own seasoning blends with what’s in the spice cupboard. This Fish Seasoning is amazing! But you can also use a simple seasoning of garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried dill. You can vary the seasoning to suit your tastes and any flavor profile.

Variations: if you like golden brown crispy fish fillets, you can dredge the fish pieces in seasoned flour prior to frying. Make sure you bring your ingredients to room temperature and adjust the heat so that your flour coating doesn't brown too much before the fish is cooked.

Nutrition