Quick Easy Baked Blackened Tilapia (Tex Mex Flavors)

This baked blackened tilapia recipe is your new go-to for quick and easy dinners. It's a family favorite that cooks up in about 10 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight.

Baked blackened tilapia is one of those recipes that's a real game changer for me when it comes to healthy eating. It's a mild-tasting fish that lends itself to the bold flavors of blackening spices. 

Tilapia filets are available at any supermarket, and the blackening spices can be adjusted according to what's in your pantry. Sometimes we use my homemade taco seasoning, this fajita seasoning, or Creole seasonings like my Louisiana rub recipe.  

Plus, it's an easy way to get a nutritious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. I just mix up the seasoning, coat the fish, and let the oven do the rest of the work.

Why you'll love the recipe

• Quick enough for weeknight dinners
• Family friendly tilapia filets are mild in taste and is a great source of lean protein
• Versatile seasoning can be changed up to suit different tastes
• Low carb

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Lime juice 
• Cornstarch
• Ancho chili powder - any variety of chili powder will work too
• Ground cumin
• Dried oregano
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Kosher salt and black pepper
• Tilapia filets
• For garnish: fresh cilantro, lime wedges (or lemon wedges) salsa, pico de gallo

Instructions

This is an overview with step by step photos. Scroll to the bottom of the post for the full recipe and recipe card.

Place the oven rack in the top portion of the oven. Preheat the broiler to high, leaving the door slightly open. The high temperature will give the outside of the fish that signature crust.

Combine the olive oil, lime juice, cornstarch, ancho chili powder, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper in a shallow bowl that's large enough to dip the fish in. 

Line a large baking sheet with foil and set aside. Dip the fish in the seasoning mixture and coat both sides of the tilapia, being sure to cover the entire fish.

Place filets on the prepared baking sheet bottom side up. Broil for 4 minutes, then carefully flip the filets over. Broil another 4 or 5 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish with lime wedges and cilantro leaves.

What goes with blackened tilapia?

This baked blackened tilapia can be used to make fish tacos. Serve with corn tortillas or flour tortillas.

Serve with baked sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, or Mexican rice, coconut rice, or vegetarian dirty rice.

Condiments like tartar sauce, my homemade Cajun sauce, or my avocado ranch dressing are delicious recipes to serve with your blackened tilapia.

Can I use a cast iron skillet?

While baking is fuss-free, you can also make this recipe on the stove top. Using a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat gives the tilapia that signature crust. Just 3-4 minutes per side should do. A large nonstick pan will also do the trick!

Cooking tips

• Pat fish with a paper towel before dipping in seasoning mixture. 
• Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the fish. 
• Substitute lemon juice and lemon wedges for lime, if preferred.

Recipe Variations

• Experiment with a different spice rub.
• Bake with lemon slices on top of fish.
• Add cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Add a touch of brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup to the spice mixture for a touch of sweetness.

Tilapia Nutritional information

Tilapia is packed with essential nutrients. It's quick cook time makes it great for an easy weeknight meal that's packed with lean protein and no carbs. A typical serving contains:

• Calories: 112
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 2.3g (includes omega-3 fatty acids)

Note that this is for the fish alone and doesn't include any additions. Nutritional information for this recipe is located at the bottom of the recipe card.

Busting Myths About Tilapia

I've heard all sorts of myths about tilapia that it's important to clear up. No, tilapia isn't "the dirtiest fish" as some allege. When farmed properly, it is as safe and nutritious as other popular seafood.

In short, tilapia is a mild-tasting fish full of nutritional benefits, easy to cook, and great for a vast array of simple recipes. It has earned its place on my dinner table, and I think it deserves a spot on yours too!

How to Store

For any leftover baked blackened tilapia, I make sure it's cooled down first. Use shallow airtight containers or wrap the tilapia tightly in aluminum foil before placing it in the fridge. It's important to eat these leftovers within three to four days for the best quality and safety.

When I've got more tilapia than I can eat in a few days, freezing is a fantastic option. I double-wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then put them into a freezer bag or airtight container. This method prevents freezer burn and keeps the fish good for up to a month. When I'm ready to enjoy my tilapia again, I just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it gently to maintain its moistness and flavor.

• Airtight Container for unused seasoning blend
• Cool Down before storing cooked tilapia
• Refrigerate cooked tilapia in shallow airtight containers or wrapped in foil
• Consume refrigerated cooked tilapia within 3-4 days
• Freeze for longer storage, wrapped properly to prevent freezer burn
• Thaw in refrigerator when ready to reheat and use

How to reheat

When I need to reheat leftover blackened tilapia, I keep it simple and effective to maintain its flavor and texture. Here's how I do it:

In the Oven:

1. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). A lower temperature prevents the fish from drying out.
2. Place the tilapia on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Lightly Brush with olive oil to add moisture and prevent the fish from drying out.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap in moisture and ensure even heating.
5. Heat for about 8 minutes or until heated through. Try not to overbake. Check for an internal temperature of 125-130°F (52-54°C) – that's when you know it's heated through.

In the Air Fryer:

• Temperature: I use 275°F (135°C) here as well. It's key to not overcook the fish.
• Time: Just 3-5 minutes should do it, as an air fryer works by circulating hot air around the food.

My Tips:

• I always check the fish midway through reheating. Overcooking is the enemy of good reheated fish!
• Thaw the tilapia in the fridge if it's frozen, and bring it to room temperature before reheating.
• A little water in the bottom of the dish before covering it with foil can add extra moisture.

Remember, all ovens and air fryers are a bit different, so I keep an eye on my tilapia and adjust times as needed.

More fish recipes

• Sweet Chili Salmon
• Cajun Baked Salmon
• Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon
• Asian Marinade for Salmon (Soy, Ginger, Garlic Glaze)