Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Air Fryer Tilapia with Blackening Seasoning and Lemon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 4 reviews

This quick and easy Air Fryer Tilapia recipe delivers perfectly cooked, flaky tilapia fillets seasoned with a flavorful blackening seasoning. Ideal for both fresh and frozen fillets, it’s a healthy and convenient way to enjoy a delicious seafood meal in just 15 minutes.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Seafood

  • 2 tilapia fillets (4-6 ounces each)

Seasonings & Fats

  • 2 teaspoons melted butter or olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons blackening seasoning
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Black ground pepper, to taste

Optional

  • Lemon wedges, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Tilapia: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then season both sides with sea salt and black ground pepper evenly.
  3. Season Fillets: Place the tilapia fillets inside the air fryer basket. Brush melted butter or olive oil generously over each fillet, then sprinkle blackening seasoning evenly on both sides for bold flavor.
  4. Cook Tilapia: Air fry the seasoned tilapia for approximately 7 minutes if fresh, or for 10 minutes if frozen. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  5. Serve: Remove tilapia from the air fryer and serve immediately while warm, garnished with fresh lemon wedges for an added citrusy brightness.

Notes

  • If using frozen tilapia, no need to thaw before cooking; just add about 3 extra minutes to the cook time.
  • Adjust blackening seasoning amount based on your spice preference.
  • Use olive oil for a heart-healthy fat option or butter for richer flavor.
  • This recipe works well with other white fish fillets, such as cod or haddock.
  • Ensure the fish is flaky and opaque before serving to guarantee it is fully cooked.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7-10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat