Crispy Fish Rice with Creamy Dill Ranch

Posted on October 4, 2025

Crispy Fish Rice with Creamy Dill Ranch

Are you in search of a delightful dish that combines crispy textures with creamy flavors? Look no further than this Crispy Fish Rice with Creamy Dill Ranch. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also offers an exquisite balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. The golden-brown crispy fish paired with fluffy jasmine rice and a tangy, creamy dill ranch dressing makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish promises to impress everyone at the table.

Let’s dive into the details of why this recipe is a must-try and how you can easily whip it up at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Crispy Fish Rice with Creamy Dill Ranch is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the best of both worlds: crispy fish and fluffy rice. Here are some reasons why you’ll love this dish:

  • Flavorful Components: The fish is seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, creating a flavorful crust. The creamy dill ranch adds a refreshing zing that perfectly complements the fish.
  • Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this recipe. It’s an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
  • Customizable: You can easily swap out the fish for your favorite type or even use chicken if you prefer. The creamy dill ranch can also be adjusted based on your taste preferences.
  • Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the fish and healthy fats from the ranch dressing, this dish can be a part of a balanced meal when paired with vegetables or a fresh salad.
  • Kid-Friendly: Kids love crispy foods, and this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Serve it with a side of veggies, and you’ve got a wholesome meal!

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Exploring new recipes is an adventure in itself, and the Crispy Fish Rice with Creamy Dill Ranch is one worth taking. Here’s why you should give it a go:

  • Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the crispy fish, fluffy rice, and creamy dressing create a visually appealing plate that’s perfect for entertaining guests.
  • Quick Cooking Time: In under an hour, you can have a gourmet meal ready to serve. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table fast.
  • Family-Friendly Recipe: This dish encourages family bonding during meal preparation. Get the kids involved in the breading process for a fun cooking experience!
  • Great for Meal Prep: Cook a larger batch of fish and rice, and enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day. Pair it with the creamy dill ranch for a delicious meal on the go.
  • Versatile Side Dishes: This dish pairs beautifully with various sides, including steamed vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or even crispy fries!

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Ingredients

  • For the Crispy Fish:
    • 1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
    • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crispiness)
    • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    • 2 eggs, beaten
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Oil for frying
  • For the Rice:
    • 1 cup jasmine rice
    • 2 cups water or fish stock
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • Salt to taste
  • For the Creamy Dill Ranch:
    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    • 1/2 cup sour cream
    • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Recommended Utensils

  • Medium saucepan for cooking rice
  • Large skillet for frying fish
  • Three shallow dishes for breading station
  • Mixing bowl for creamy dill ranch
  • Whisk for mixing ingredients
  • Spatula for flipping fish
  • Paper towels for draining excess oil

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have all your ingredients and utensils ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed steps to create your Crispy Fish Rice with Creamy Dill Ranch.

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

  1. Rinse the rice: Begin by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and ensures fluffy rice.
  2. Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water or fish stock, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
  3. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Fluff the rice: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Dill Ranch

  1. Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh dill, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. Whisk until smooth: Use a whisk to mix everything together until well combined and smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 3: Prepare the Crispy Fish

  1. Set up a breading station: In three shallow dishes, place the flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third dish.
  2. Bread the fish: Dip each fish fillet first in the flour, ensuring it’s coated. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to ensure a good coating.
  3. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s hot enough when a breadcrumb sizzles upon contact.
  4. Fry the fish: Carefully add the breaded fish fillets to the skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

  1. Plate the dish: Serve the crispy fish over a bed of fluffy rice.
  2. Add the creamy ranch: Drizzle the creamy dill ranch over the fish or serve it on the side for dipping.
  3. Enjoy: Your Crispy Fish Rice with Creamy Dill Ranch is ready to be enjoyed! Pair it with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

FAQs

What kind of fish is best for this recipe?

White fish fillets such as cod or tilapia are ideal for this recipe due to their mild flavor and flaky texture when cooked. You can also experiment with other types like haddock or pollock.

Can I make the creamy dill ranch ahead of time?

Absolutely! The creamy dill ranch can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the flavors.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make it healthier, consider baking the fish instead of frying. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in the ranch dressing for a lighter option.

What can I serve with crispy fish rice?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or even crispy fries. You can also add a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing!

Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use different types of rice such as basmati or brown rice. Just adjust the cooking time and water ratio as needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Crispy Fish Rice with Creamy Dill Ranch is a delightful dish that combines crispy textures with creamy flavors, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Its ease of preparation, delicious taste, and versatility make it a winner in any kitchen. We hope you try this recipe and enjoy every bite. If you loved it, please share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out our other favorites like Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders and Teriyaki Salmon Bites. You can also find inspiration on our Pinterest page!

Crispy Fish Rice with Creamy Dill Ranch

Crispy Fish Rice with Creamy Dill Ranch

Enjoy a delightful meal of crispy fish served over fluffy rice paired with a creamy dill ranch dressing.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 480 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large skillet

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound White fish fillets such as cod or tilapia
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs panko preferred for extra crispiness
  • 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
  • 2 Eggs beaten
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • for frying Oil
  • 1 cup Jasmine rice
  • 2 cups Water or fish stock
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup Sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon juice

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  • In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water or fish stock, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  • Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh dill, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • Set up a breading station: Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in a second dish, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third dish.
  • Dip each fish fillet first in the flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it's well coated.
  • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded fish fillets.
  • Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  • Serve the crispy fish over a bed of fluffy rice. Drizzle the creamy dill ranch over the fish or serve on the side for dipping.
  • Enjoy your Crispy Fish Rice with Creamy Dill Ranch!

Notes

Feel free to customize the herbs and spices in the creamy ranch to suit your taste!
Keyword Creamy Ranch, fish, rice

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