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Crispy Fish with Rice

Frozen fish fillets pan-fried until golden, served over rice with a canned vegetable on the side. A simple dinner that feels like a proper meal.

Nut-FreeEgg-FreeDairy-Free Main Dish
Prep: 5 min Cook: 20 min Total: 25 min Servings: 3–4 Difficulty: Easy

Allergens: Contains Fish. May contain Gluten if fish fillets are breaded — check package.

Ingredients

  • 4 frozen fish fillets (tilapia, pollock, or any white fish — breaded or plain)
  • 1½ cups rice, uncooked
  • 1 can (15 oz) green beans or corn, drained
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Optional Extras

  • Lemon juice or vinegar
  • Salt and pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Butter for the rice
  • Hot sauce or ketchup

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Medium pot with lid (for rice)
  • Spatula
  • Small pot (for vegetables)

Instructions

  1. Start the rice first. Combine 1½ cups rice and 3 cups water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 18–20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  2. While the rice cooks, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Place the frozen fish fillets in the skillet. No need to thaw — cook from frozen. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork when done.
  4. While the fish cooks, warm the drained green beans or corn in a small pot over low heat, or microwave for 2 minutes.
  5. Fluff the rice with a fork. Serve the fish over rice with the vegetables on the side.
  6. Season with salt, pepper, lemon juice, or garlic powder if you have them.

Notes

  • Breaded vs plain fish: Both work. Breaded fillets are crispier and more kid-friendly. Plain fillets are lighter — season them with salt and garlic powder before cooking.
  • No rice? Serve with instant mashed potatoes or bread instead.
  • Tartar sauce substitute: Mix mayonnaise with a little vinegar and a pinch of sugar. It's not the real thing but it works.
  • Canned salmon patties: If you have canned salmon instead, make patties like the Tuna Potato Cakes recipe.
  • Leftover fish: Flake it into pieces and add to pasta or rice the next day.