Name: Fish Fry Platter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the fish:; 1 1/2 pounds white fish fillets (cod, haddock, tilapia, or pollock); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornmeal; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Vegetable oil, for frying; For serving:; 4 cups fries; 2 cups coleslaw; Lemon wedges; 1/2 cup tartar sauce or garlic mayo

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Crispy, golden, and full of flavor, this Fish Fry Platter is perfect for a family meal or casual gathering. Tender fish fillets are seasoned, coated, and fried until crunchy, then served with fries, coleslaw, and a creamy dipping sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to prepare, uses simple pantry spices, and gives you restaurant-style crispy fish at home. The coating stays crunchy while the fish inside remains soft and flaky. It is also flexible, so you can serve it with fries, rice, salad, or warm bread.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the fish:

1 1/2 pounds white fish fillets, such as cod, haddock, tilapia, or pollock
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Vegetable oil, for frying

For serving:

4 cups frozen or homemade fries
2 cups coleslaw
Lemon wedges
1/2 cup tartar sauce or garlic mayo

Directions

Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels, then cut them into serving-sized pieces.

In a shallow bowl, mix flour, cornmeal, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, parsley, and cayenne pepper.

In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and lemon juice until smooth.

Dip each fish piece into the egg mixture, then coat it well in the flour mixture. Press gently so the coating sticks.

Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the fish in batches for 3 to 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Place fried fish on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot with fries, coleslaw, lemon wedges, and sauce.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

For a spicier platter, add extra cayenne pepper or chili powder to the coating. For a lighter version, bake the coated fish at 425°F for about 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F until warm and crispy. Avoid microwaving because it can soften the coating.

FAQs

What type of fish is best for a fish fry platter?

Cod, haddock, tilapia, pollock, or any mild white fish works well.

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, but thaw it completely and pat it dry before coating.

How do I keep the coating crispy?

Place fried fish on a wire rack instead of stacking it on a plate.

Can I bake this recipe?

Yes, bake at 425°F for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping once.

Can I make it without cornmeal?

Yes, replace cornmeal with extra flour or breadcrumbs.

What oil is best for frying?

Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil.

How do I know the fish is cooked?

The fish should flake easily with a fork and look opaque inside.

Can I make this recipe ahead?

It is best fresh, but you can season and coat the fish shortly before frying.

What sides go well with this platter?

Fries, coleslaw, salad, rice, or warm bread all work well.

Can I make it less spicy?

Yes, simply leave out the cayenne pepper.

Conclusion

This Fish Fry Platter is crispy, flavorful, and satisfying. With golden fried fish, classic sides, and a creamy dipping sauce, it makes a delicious homemade meal that feels special without being difficult to prepare.