Quick Blackened Tilapia
Whip up a restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes with this incredibly easy blackened tilapia recipe. Perfectly seasoned and seared to a delicious crust, these fish fillets are a fantastic option for a healthy and flavorful weeknight dinner.
1Ingredients
- 4 piecesTilapia fillets
- 2 tablespoonsOlive oil
- 1 teaspoonSmoked paprika
- 1 teaspoonGarlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoonOnion powder
- 0.5 teaspoonDried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoonDried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoonCayenne pepper
- 0.8 teaspoonSalt
- 0.5 teaspoonBlack pepper
- 2 piecesLemon wedges
2Instructions
- 1
Pat the tilapia fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good blackened crust. Set aside.
⏱ 2 min - 2
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create your blackening seasoning.
⏱ 2 min - 3
Generously sprinkle the seasoning mix over both sides of each tilapia fillet, pressing gently to adhere. You can use all the seasoning for maximum flavor.
⏱ 2 min - 4
Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan. Let the oil get hot until it shimmers but does not smoke excessively.
⏱ 2 min - 5
Carefully place the seasoned tilapia fillets in the hot skillet. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and has developed a dark, crusty 'blackened' exterior.
⏱ 6 min - 6
Remove the cooked tilapia from the skillet and transfer to serving plates. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top. Pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or rice.
⏱ 1 min