Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make seafood recipe that’s packed with flavor? Look no further! Tilapia is a mild-flavored fish that pairs perfectly with a wide range of bold flavors, from spicy sriracha to sweet mango salsa. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 crispy pan fried tilapia recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic garlic butter and lemon pepper to more adventurous options like Cajun spiced and panko crusted, there’s a pan fried tilapia recipe for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or bold and spicy, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover your new favorite way to enjoy crispy pan fried tilapia!
Garlic Butter Pan Fried Tilapia
A flavorful and elegant seafood dish that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the simplicity of pan-frying with the richness of garlic butter, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Place the tilapia in the preheated pan, skin side down (if it has skin).
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the fish is cooked halfway through.
6. Spoon the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
7. Flip the tilapia over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Lemon Pepper Pan Fried Tilapia
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and easy-to-make tilapia recipe, infused with the zesty flavors of lemon and pepper.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and black pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place the coated tilapia in the preheated pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the tilapia from the pan and set aside.
6. Add lemon juice and melted butter to the pan, stirring to combine.
7. Simmer the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
8. Serve the tilapia with the warm lemon pepper sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun Spiced Pan Fried Tilapia
Cajun Spiced Pan Fried Tilapia Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this simple recipe for Cajun Spiced Pan Fried Tilapia. With a few pantry staples and some fresh tilapia, you’ll be enjoying a spicy and savory dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dredge the tilapia fillets in the spice mixture, shaking off any excess.
4. Add olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl it around.
5. Pan-fry the tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Panko Crusted Pan Fried Tilapia
Experience the perfect blend of crispy exterior and tender interior with this easy-to-make tilapia recipe. Using Panko breadcrumbs adds a light, airy texture that complements the delicate flavor of the fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs and lemon zest.
3. Season the tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl to coat.
6. Pan-fry the coated tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pan Fried Tilapia with Mango Salsa
Pan-Fried Tilapia with Mango Salsa Recipe
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and refreshing pan-fried tilapia paired with a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Mango Salsa (see below for recipe)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dredge tilapia fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Add olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl to coat. Cook tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with Mango Salsa.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Pan Fried Tilapia
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and spicy tilapia recipe! A perfect combination of crunchy exterior and tender interior, all wrapped up in a zesty sriracha sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Sriracha sauce, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Season the tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Add the tilapia to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush the Sriracha mixture evenly over the fish during the last minute of cooking.
6. Remove from heat, garnish with cilantro leaves, and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herb Crusted Pan Fried Tilapia
This flavorful recipe combines the tender taste of tilapia with the savory aroma of fresh herbs, making it a perfect choice for a quick and delicious meal. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you’ll be enjoying this delightful dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup mixed herbs (parsley, dill, thyme, rosemary)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the mixed herbs and olive oil to create a paste.
4. Place each tilapia fillet on a flat surface and brush both sides evenly with the herb mixture.
5. Add the coated tilapia to the preheated pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges (optional) for added brightness.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Pan Fried Tilapia with Garlic Lime Sauce
Pan Fried Tilapia with Garlic Lime Sauce Recipe
Experience the bright flavors of the Caribbean with this quick and easy tilapia recipe, topped with a zesty garlic lime sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season tilapia fillets with flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tilapia and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, lime juice, and honey.
5. Serve tilapia with garlic lime sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Fried Tilapia with Coconut Crust
Pan Fried Tilapia with Coconut Crust Recipe
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with the rich, nutty taste of coconut for a unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together shredded coconut, unsweetened shredded coconut, olive oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dredge each fillet in the coconut mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon of butter or oil. Pan fry the coated tilapia for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Fried Tilapia with Tomato Basil Relish
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make pan fried tilapia, served alongside a fresh tomato basil relish. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh tomato basil relish (recipe below)
Fresh Tomato Basil Relish:
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge tilapia fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Add olive oil to the preheated skillet and cook tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with fresh tomato basil relish.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Fried Tilapia with Lemon Dill Sauce
Lightly pan-fried tilapia pairs perfectly with a bright and zesty lemon dill sauce, making for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. This recipe is easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Pan-fry tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. While the fish is cooking, combine lemon juice, olive oil, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
5. Serve pan-fried tilapia topped with lemon dill sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Fried Tilapia with Avocado Crema
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of pan-seared tilapia with the creamy richness of avocado crema, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season tilapia fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Add a small amount of vegetable oil to the pan and cook tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, and lime juice in a bowl. Blend until smooth.
5. Serve cooked tilapia with avocado crema spooned on top.
6. Cook time: 12-15 minutes.
Cooking Tips: Make sure to not overcrowd the pan when cooking the tilapia, cook in batches if necessary. Adjust seasoning as needed to taste.
Pan Fried Tilapia with Honey Mustard Glaze
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and tangy pan-fried tilapia recipe, topped with a sticky honey mustard glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Honey Mustard Glaze:
+ 2 tbsp honey
+ 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
+ 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip tilapia fillets in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Add olive oil to preheated skillet and cook tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together honey mustard glaze ingredients.
6. Brush glaze over tilapia during the last minute of cooking.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Fried Tilapia with Blackened Seasoning
A flavorful and crispy pan-seared tilapia dish seasoned with a bold blend of blackened spices, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackened seasoning blend
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Sprinkle both sides of each fillet with blackened seasoning blend, salt, and pepper.
4. Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the preheated pan, swirl to coat the bottom.
5. Place two tilapia fillets in the pan, cook for 3-4 minutes or until crispy and cooked through.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also cooked through.
7. Remove from heat, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over each fillet.
8. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Fried Tilapia with Cilantro Lime Butter
Pan-Fried Tilapia with Cilantro Lime Butter: A Bright and Zesty Twist on a Classic Dish
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with the vibrant freshness of cilantro and lime, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, chopped cilantro, and lime juice.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Add cooking spray or oil to the preheated pan and swirl to coat.
5. Place tilapia in the pan, skin side up (if it has skin).
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until cooked through.
7. Serve with cilantro lime butter spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes per batch
Pan Fried Tilapia with Pineapple Salsa
Enjoy a flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional fish recipes with this pan fried tilapia paired with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Pineapple Salsa ingredients:
+ 1 ripe pineapple, diced
+ 1/2 red onion, diced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
+ Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge tilapia fillets in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Add olive oil to the preheated pan and cook tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple salsa ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.
6. Serve cooked tilapia with pineapple salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan Fried Tilapia with Brown Butter Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this delectable pan fried tilapia paired with a rich and nutty brown butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season tilapia fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Add butter to the preheated pan and let it melt. Place the tilapia in the pan, skin side up (if applicable).
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Meanwhile, mix brown sugar, garlic, and melted butter in a small bowl to create the brown butter sauce.
6. Remove the tilapia from the pan and serve with the warm brown butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pan Fried Tilapia with Chimichurri Drizzle
This recipe combines the simplicity of pan-frying tilapia with the bright, herby flavors of chimichurri sauce. The result is a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add the olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, and lemon juice to the pan. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Place the tilapia fillets in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the fish from the pan and place on a plate. Drizzle with butter and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the crispy and flavorful world of pan-fried tilapia! This article brings you 18 mouth-watering recipes that will elevate your cooking game. From classic garlic butter to bold and zesty options like lemon pepper, Cajun spiced, and spicy Sriracha, there’s something for every taste bud. Try panko-crusted tilapia with mango salsa or herb-crusted tilapia with a side of garlic lime sauce. With a range of international inspirations from coconut crust to blackened seasoning, you’ll never tire of these crispy pan-fried delights.
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