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Air fryer blackened tilapia with a bold Cajun style seasoning crust, flaky white fish, and fresh lemon wedges
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Air Fryer Blackened Tilapia - Fast, Flavorful, and Foolproof

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 tilapia fillets (about 4–6 ounces each), thawed if frozen and patted dry
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (reduce for milder heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 3/4 to 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, helps caramelize and balance heat)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Let it heat while you prepare the fish for a better crust.
  • Prep the fish: Pat the tilapia fillets completely dry with paper towels. Dry fish browns better and won’t steam.
  • Make the blackening blend: In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, black pepper, salt, and brown sugar (if using).
  • Oil and season: Brush both sides of each fillet lightly with oil. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly on both sides, pressing gently so it adheres.
  • Arrange in the basket: Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil. Place fillets in a single layer with space between them. Work in batches if needed.
  • Air fry: Cook for 7–10 minutes total, flipping once halfway through. Thin fillets may be done in 6–7 minutes; thicker ones may take up to 10.
  • Check doneness: The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  • Finish and serve: Squeeze fresh lemon over the fillets. Garnish with chopped herbs and serve hot.