Step 1: Prepare the Fish

1. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating adhere and ensures crispiness.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Dredge each fish fillet in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 2: Fry the Fish

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts and starts to foam, add the fish fillets.
2. Fry the fish for 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork.
3. Transfer the fish to a plate lined with paper towels and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for frying the fish, add olive oil and garlic over medium heat. Sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken or vegetable broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes, scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate any browned bits.
3. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Whisk in the butter, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce becomes silky and emulsified. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
2. Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for 1–2 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

1. Divide the pasta among four plates or bowls. Top each serving with a fried fish fillet.
2. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve with additional lemon wedges on the side.