Description
A quick and easy recipe for tilapia fillets with a spicy, crispy blackened crust that locks in moisture and flavor. Perfect for a bold, satisfying meal in about 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each), fresh or thawed
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (about 2 minutes).
- Mix the blackening spice blend in a bowl: combine smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Stir well (about 3 minutes).
- Coat the fillets evenly on both sides with the spice blend (5 minutes).
- Heat olive oil in a cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 3 minutes).
- Place the seasoned fillets gently into the pan without overcrowding; work in batches if needed.
- Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes without moving to allow the crust to form and char slightly.
- Flip carefully using a fish spatula and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until the fish flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Transfer the fillets to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes to redistribute juices.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
Patting the fish dry is essential for a crispy crust. Use a hot pan and avoid overcrowding to prevent steaming. Rest the fish after cooking to keep it moist. Adjust cayenne pepper to control heat level. For a milder crust, reduce cayenne or substitute with smoked sweet paprika. Cast-iron skillet is preferred for best crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (about 6 ou
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 30
Keywords: blackened tilapia, crispy fish, spicy fish recipe, quick dinner, pan-seared tilapia, gluten-free, dairy-free, healthy seafood