Air Fryer Blackened Tilapia
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
5 mins
-
Cook Time
8 mins
-
Total Time
13 mins
-
Servings
4 people
-
Calories
284 kcal
-
Course
Main Course
-
Cuisine
American
Air Fryer Blackened Tilapia
Description
Air Fryer Blackened Tilapia starts with a blend of smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, creating a robust seasoning mix that delivers smoky and mildly spicy notes. The tilapia fillets are rinsed, dried thoroughly to help the seasoning adhere, and lightly coated with avocado oil before being rubbed with the spice mix on both sides. Air frying at 400°F crisps the exterior while keeping the fish moist and flaky inside. Lemon wedges served alongside add brightness and cut through the seasoning's intensity.
The air fryer requires arranging the fillets in a single layer with enough space to avoid overcrowding, which ensures even cooking and crispiness on all sides. A meat thermometer helps check doneness, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F. This cooking method avoids heavy oil frying while still yielding a blackened-style fish that can be paired with simple sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or salads for a balanced meal.
Proper drying of the fish before seasoning is crucial for texture and flavor adherence. Adjusting the cayenne amount lets you control the spice heat. Working in batches prevents crowding in the air fryer, promoting even cooking. Using a meat thermometer ensures the fish is thoroughly cooked but not overdone, preserving its juiciness and flaky texture.
Ingredients
- 4-6 tilapia fillets
- 3 tablespoon avocado oil
- lemon wedges, for serving
Blackened Seasoning Rub
- 3 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon thyme dried
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper ground
- ½ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer. Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for about 10 minutes.
- Mix the Seasoning. In a bowl, whisk together all the blackened seasoning ingredients. Set aside.
- Prep the Tilapia. Rinse the tilapia fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. Drizzle with avocado oil and lightly toss to coat. Drain any excess oil.
- Season the Fish. Rub about 1 tablespoon of the seasoning onto each fillet, coating both sides. Shake off any excess seasoning.
- Air Fry. Spray the air fryer basket and the fillets generously with oil. Arrange in a single layer and air fry for 7–9 minutes, or until the thickest part of the fillet reaches 145°F and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Pat the fish dry thoroughly before seasoning to help the rub stick and create a better crust.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity to match your desired spice level.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F for perfectly cooked tilapia.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 284 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 284kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | 2% |
| Protein | 35g | 70% |
| Fat | 14g | 22% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Cholesterol | 85mg | 28% |
| Sodium | 676mg | 28% |
| Potassium | 684mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 2717IU | 54% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 56mg | 6% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
You'll Also Love
