Air Fryer · Easy
Air Fryer Blackened Tilapia
This air fryer tilapia gets a bold, smoky blackened seasoning crust and cooks in about 10 minutes for a fast, flavorful fish dinner.
5Prep min
9Cook min
14Total min
What you'll need
- 4tilapia fillets
- 1 tablespoonolive oil
- 1 teaspoonpaprika
- 1/2 teaspoonsmoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoongarlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoononion powder
- 1/4 teaspooncayenne pepper
- to taste salt
Let's cook
- 1Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
- 2Pat the tilapia dry and brush lightly with olive oil.
- 3Mix the paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and salt, then rub over both sides of the fillets.
- 4Place in a single layer in the basket.
- 5Air fry for 7-9 minutes, until the fish flakes easily and the crust is set.
- 6Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Make it yours
- Reduce the cayenne for a milder version.
- Serve flaked over a salad or in tacos.
- Add a squeeze of lime instead of lemon for a different citrus note.
Good with
- Cilantro lime rice
- Black beans and corn salad
- Fish tacos with slaw
Frequently asked questions
Good questions, answered.
Is blackened seasoning very spicy?
It has a mild kick from the cayenne; reduce or omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
How thin fillets affect cook time?
Thinner tilapia fillets may need only 6-7 minutes, so check a minute or two early.



