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๐Ÿฅ˜Recipes by Nani
Dinner

Easy Blackened Tilapia

This smoky and spicy blackened tilapia is a quick dinner that the whole family will love.

By Recipes By Naniยท ๐ŸŒ Americanยท October 5, 2026
Easy Blackened Tilapia
recipesbynani.com
Prep
5 minutes
Cook
6 minutes
Total
11 minutes
Serves
4

Tilapia is one of my favorite go to proteins because it is affordable, easy to store in the freezer, and cooks up in just a few minutes. I love how the bold spice crust creates a smoky flavor that makes simple fish feel special.

My best tip is to make sure your skillet is nice and hot before you add the fish. This ensures you get that beautiful dark crust without overcooking the delicate fillets inside.

๐Ÿงบ Ingredients

  • 4 tilapia fillets
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐ŸณInstructions

  1. 1

    Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the seasonings stick well.

  2. 2

    In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

  3. 3

    Brush both sides of each fillet with the melted butter.

  4. 4

    Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the fish, pressing it gently with your fingers.

  5. 5

    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat.

  6. 6

    Place the fillets in the hot skillet and cook for about 3 minutes per side until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

๐Ÿ’ก Tips

Serve this over a bed of fluffy rice or use it for fish tacos with a crunchy cabbage slaw. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days and reheat them gently in a pan.

Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.

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