Name: Apricot-Chili Glazed Fish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, halibut, or tilapia); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 3/4 cup beer or sparkling water; Vegetable oil, for frying; 8 corn or flour tortillas, warmed; 2 cups green or red cabbage, finely shredded; Fresh lime wedges, for serving; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 tbsp lime juice; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper; Salt, to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for its irresistible blend of sweet heat and zesty brightness. The apricot-chili glaze caramelizes beautifully on the fish, creating a sticky, flavorful coating that enhances rather than overpowers the delicate texture. It’s an easy, elegant dish that requires minimal ingredients and cleanup—proof that healthy meals can be absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

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

White fish fillets (such as cod, halibut, snapper, or tilapia)
Apricot preserves or jam
Chili sauce (like Thai sweet chili sauce or sriracha)
Soy sauce
Fresh lime juice
Garlic, minced
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Fresh cilantro or green onions, for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a small bowl, whisk together apricot preserves, chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil until smooth.
Pat the fish fillets dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Place the fish on the prepared baking sheet and brush generously with the apricot-chili glaze.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the glaze is slightly caramelized.
For extra color, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Grilled version: Grill the fish over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side, basting with the glaze.
Spicier glaze: Add extra chili sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Citrus twist: Swap lime juice for orange juice or add a bit of zest for brightness.
Alternative proteins: Use salmon, shrimp, or chicken breast instead of white fish.
Fresh herbs: Garnish with basil or mint for a fragrant finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the fish from drying out. The glaze can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

FAQs

What kind of fish works best for this recipe?

Mild white fish like cod, tilapia, halibut, or snapper works best since it allows the glaze flavors to shine.

Can I use another type of jam instead of apricot?

Yes, peach, mango, or pineapple jam are great alternatives for a tropical flavor.

How spicy is the glaze?

The heat level depends on your chili sauce—use sweet chili sauce for mild heat or sriracha for more spice.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare and refrigerate the glaze for up to 5 days; rewarm slightly before using.

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before glazing and baking.

What can I serve with Apricot-Chili Glazed Fish?

It pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

How do I know when the fish is cooked?

The fish should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout.

Can I make this dish dairy-free or gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally dairy-free. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Can I air-fry the fish?

Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 8–10 minutes, brushing with glaze halfway through.

What’s the best way to get a caramelized finish?

Broil the fish for 1–2 minutes after baking to lightly caramelize the glaze without burning it.

Conclusion

Apricot-Chili Glazed Fish is a flavorful and elegant dish that combines sweet, spicy, and tangy notes for a perfectly balanced bite. Quick to prepare yet impressive in presentation, it’s a versatile recipe that elevates any mealtime. Whether baked, grilled, or air-fried, this dish promises a deliciously fresh and modern take on weeknight seafood.