Nothing says “taco night” quite like a plate of Crispy Fish Tacos with Creamy Green Sauce. With golden, crunchy cod, a fresh slaw, and a zesty avocado sauce, this easy fish tacos is both satisfying and refreshing. It’s no wonder these tacos quickly became my family’s favorite dinner.
The best part? They’re ready in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for weeknights or casual get-togethers. Whether you’re new to cooking fish at home or a taco enthusiast, this Mexican-inspired fish tacos will become a go-to in your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Print Recipe
Crispy Fish Tacos with Creamy Green Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the creamy green sauce: combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, and salt in a food processor. Blend until smooth, adding water a teaspoon at a time to thin if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Make the slaw: whisk lime juice, mayonnaise, yogurt, sriracha, and salt in a bowl. Add cabbage and red onion, toss to coat evenly.
- Cut cod into 2-3 inch fingers. Set up breading station: flour + chili powder + ¼ tsp salt + pepper in one bowl, egg + 1 tbsp water in second, panko + ¼ tsp salt in third.
- Dredge fish in flour, dip in egg, then coat in panko. Arrange on plate or baking sheet.
- Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat (⅛-inch depth). Fry fish in batches until golden-brown and cooked through, 2–3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
- To serve: scoop slaw into tortillas, top with fish, a dollop of green sauce, and desired toppings like tomato, pickled onions, or lime wedges.
Notes
Why You’ll Love These Crispy Fish Tacos with Creamy Green Sauce
- Crispy & Tender Lightly breaded cod is pan-fried until golden and crunchy on the outside, flaky on the inside.
- Balanced Flavors The creamy avocado sauce cools the spice, while the slaw adds crunch and tang.
- Customizable Use corn or flour tortillas, add extra toppings, or adjust the spice level.
- Quick to Make From start to finish, this dinner takes just 30 minutes.
- Better Than Takeout Fresher, lighter, and packed with flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet For shallow frying the fish.
- Mini food processor or blender To make the avocado sauce silky smooth.
- Mixing bowls For the slaw and breading station.
- Tongs or spatula To flip fish pieces easily.
Ingredients For panko cod tacos
Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 large avocado
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, packed
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
Quick Taco Slaw
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp Sriracha
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- ¼ cup thin-sliced red onion
Crispy Fish
- 1 lb cod filets
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp fine sea salt, divided
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Olive oil, for frying
For Serving
- 8 small flour or corn tortillas, warmed
- Chopped tomato
- Thinly sliced serrano or jalapeño chili
- Pickled red onions
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
how to make taco night recipe Step-by-Step
- Make the Avocado Sauce
In a blender, combine avocado, yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. If needed, add water a teaspoon at a time to thin. Adjust lime and salt to taste. - Prepare the Slaw
In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, mayonnaise, yogurt, Sriracha, and salt. Add cabbage and red onion, then toss until evenly coated. Set aside to marinate. - Prep the Fish
Cut cod into strips (2–3 inches long). Set up three bowls: one with flour, chili powder, salt, and pepper; one with beaten egg and water; and one with panko breadcrumbs and the remaining salt. Dredge fish in flour, dip in egg, then coat in panko. Place on a plate. - Fry the Fish
Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fish pieces in a single layer, cooking 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with remaining fish.
- Assemble the Tacos
Warm tortillas and add a spoonful of slaw. Place 1–2 pieces of crispy fish on top, then drizzle with avocado sauce. Garnish with tomatoes, pickled onions, chili slices, cilantro, and lime juice.
Nutrition Benefits (Per Taco – Approx. 8 tacos)
| Nutrient | Amount | Why It’s Good |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~260 kcal | A balanced, lighter dinner option |
| Protein | 17 g | Lean protein from cod |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g | Energy from tortillas & veggies |
| Fiber | 3 g | From cabbage, avocado, and tortillas |
| Fat | 12 g | Healthy fats from avocado & olive oil |
| Vitamin C | High | Immunity boost from lime & cabbage |
Variations For this easy fish tacos
- Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Spicier Version: Add jalapeños to the sauce or increase Sriracha in the slaw.
- Baked Alternative: Bake breaded fish at 400℉ for 15–18 minutes instead of frying.
- Different Protein: Try shrimp or salmon for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh corn salad.
- Pair with sparkling water, margaritas, or a citrusy mocktail.
- Add chips and salsa on the side for a full taco night spread.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fish: Best fresh, but leftovers keep in the fridge for 2 days. Reheat in oven for crispness.
- Slaw: Store separately in fridge for up to 2 days.
- Avocado Sauce: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for 24 hours in an airtight container.
FAQs : Mexican-inspired fish tacos
Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 375℉ for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
What fish works best for tacos?
Cod, tilapia, halibut, or mahi-mahi are all great options.
Can I prep ahead?
Yes, slaw and sauce can be made a day in advance. Bread the fish just before cooking.
Are these tacos healthy?
Yes, packed with protein, veggies, and healthy fats.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Perfect for feeding a crowd.
Conclusion
These Crispy Fish Tacos with Creamy Green Sauce are everything you want in a taco: crunchy, creamy, tangy, and fresh. Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re a weeknight win that feels restaurant-worthy.
Bring them to your next taco night, and they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household and among the Flash Meals Club community.
For more delicious dinner ideas, check out our Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins or Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.
Follow Kenz Recipes on Facebook for more delicious ideas, behind-the-scenes baking, and quick meal tips.