If you are on the lookout for a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to impress, look no further than these Crispy Fish Strips Rice Bowls with Tangy Lemon Butter Sauce. This dish combines crispy, golden-brown fish strips with fluffy rice and vibrant vegetables, all drizzled with a zesty lemon butter sauce that enhances the flavors beautifully. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, these rice bowls are as delightful to eat as they are easy to prepare!
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy weeknight dinner or as a dish to impress your guests, these fish strips can be paired with an array of sides and sauces, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Plus, with the addition of fresh vegetables and creamy avocado, it’s a well-rounded meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Crispy Fish Strips Rice Bowls with Tangy Lemon Butter Sauce. First and foremost, the texture of the fish is simply irresistible. The panko breadcrumbs create an incredibly crunchy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the tender, flaky fish inside. This delightful crunch is something your taste buds will adore!
Additionally, the tangy lemon butter sauce brings a burst of freshness that elevates the entire dish. Made with just a few simple ingredients unsalted butter, fresh lemon juice, and zest this sauce is a game-changer. It adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the fish beautifully, making each bite a refreshing experience.
Another great aspect of this recipe is its balance of flavors and textures. The fluffy white rice serves as a perfect base that soaks up the tangy sauce, while the mixed vegetables add color, crunch, and a nutritional boost. The creamy avocado slices not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also provide healthy fats, making this bowl a complete meal.
Finally, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to substitute the white fish with your choice of protein, or mix and match the vegetables based on what you have on hand. You could also swap the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The possibilities are endless!
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Aside from its mouthwatering flavors and textures, there are several compelling reasons to give the Crispy Fish Strips Rice Bowls with Tangy Lemon Butter Sauce a try. Firstly, it’s a straightforward recipe that even novice cooks can master. The step-by-step instructions guide you through the process, ensuring that you achieve perfect results every time. In less than an hour, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Moreover, this recipe is a fantastic way to introduce more seafood into your diet. Fish is a great source of lean protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. By incorporating fish into your meals, you can enjoy a healthier lifestyle while indulging in flavors that excite your palate.
For those who love to entertain, these rice bowls are perfect for serving guests. They are visually appealing and can be assembled quickly, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Simply prepare all the components in advance and assemble them just before serving for a stunning presentation.
Lastly, this dish is easily customizable. Whether you prefer it spicy, extra tangy, or with additional toppings, you can adjust the recipe to suit your taste. This flexibility ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy a meal that they love!
Ingredients and Necessary Utensils
Ingredients
- For the Fish Strips:
- 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- For the Rice Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and peas)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
- For the Tangy Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Recommended Utensils
- Large skillet for frying
- Three bowls for breading station
- Small saucepan for sauce preparation
- Paper towels for draining excess oil
- Serving bowls for assembly
- Sharp knife for slicing fish and vegetables
- Whisk for beating eggs
Detailed Recipe Steps
Now that you have gathered all your ingredients and utensils, it’s time to dive into the recipe for these Crispy Fish Strips Rice Bowls with Tangy Lemon Butter Sauce!
Prepare the Fish Strips:
- Cut the Fish: Start by cutting the fish fillets into strips about 1 inch wide. This ensures they cook evenly and become crispy.
- Set Up a Breading Station: In three separate bowls, place the flour in the first bowl, whisk the eggs in the second bowl, and combine the breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in the third bowl. This organization makes the breading process smooth and efficient.
- Bread the Fish: Dip each fish strip first into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the egg, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. This indicates that the oil is hot enough for frying.
- Fry the Fish: Carefully add the breaded fish strips to the hot oil in batches, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, transfer the strips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Prepare the Tangy Lemon Butter Sauce:
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until fully liquefied.
- Add Flavorings: Once melted, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let it heat through for about 1-2 minutes. If desired, you can add chopped parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Assemble the Rice Bowls:
- Layer the Rice: In serving bowls, place a generous scoop of cooked white rice as the base.
- Add Vegetables: Top the rice with a medley of mixed vegetables and sliced avocado for a refreshing crunch.
- Add Fish Strips: Arrange the crispy fish strips on top of the vegetables, creating a beautiful and colorful presentation.
- Drizzle Sauce: Drizzle the tangy lemon butter sauce generously over the fish strips.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQs
What type of fish is best for crispy fish strips?
White fish fillets like cod, tilapia, or haddock are ideal for crispy fish strips due to their mild flavor and flaky texture. These varieties hold up well when breaded and fried, yielding a delicious result.
Can I bake the fish instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the fish strips for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), place the breaded fish strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
What vegetables can I use in the rice bowls?
You can use any mixed vegetables that you enjoy! Bell peppers, carrots, peas, corn, and broccoli are all excellent options. Feel free to customize the vegetable mix based on seasonal availability or personal preference.
How do I store leftovers from the fish strips rice bowls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can use an oven or toaster oven to maintain the crispiness of the fish strips. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Conclusion
In summary, the Crispy Fish Strips Rice Bowls with Tangy Lemon Butter Sauce is a dish that combines flavor, texture, and nutrition in a delightful way. With its easy preparation and adaptability, it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to more festive gatherings. We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every bite!
If you loved this recipe, please leave a comment below and share your thoughts. Don’t forget to share this article with your friends and family so they can enjoy these amazing rice bowls too! For more delicious recipes, check out our Pinterest page.
For more delightful recipes, check out:
- Honey Garlic Chicken Tenders with Tangy Lime Ranch
- Teriyaki Salmon Bites with Creamy Sesame Ginger Sauce
- Grilled Salmon Rice with Creamy Lemon Herb Sauce
- Sweet and Spicy Cod Strips Rice with Chili Garlic Drizzle
- Crunchy Meatballs with Spicy Remoulade Dip

Crispy Fish Strips Rice Bowls with Tangy Lemon Butter Sauce
Equipment
- Skillet
- Saucepan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb White fish fillets (cod or tilapia) (450g)
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 Large eggs
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- for frying Vegetable oil
- 2 cups Cooked white rice
- 1 cup Mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, peas)
- 1 Avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Tangy Lemon Butter Sauce
- 1/4 cup Unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp Fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
- Cut the fish fillets into strips about 1 inch wide.
- In three separate bowls, place the flour in the first bowl, whisk the eggs in the second bowl, and combine the breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in the third bowl.
- Dip each fish strip first into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the egg, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Carefully add the breaded fish strips to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
- Once melted, add the lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and heat through for about 1-2 minutes. If desired, add chopped parsley for extra flavor.
- In serving bowls, place a generous scoop of cooked white rice.
- Top the rice with mixed vegetables and sliced avocado.
- Arrange the crispy fish strips on top of the vegetables.
- Drizzle the tangy lemon butter sauce over the fish strips.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.