Pan Fried Cajun Tilapia
Savor the bold flavors of the South with this Pan Fried Cajun Tilapia recipe, a quick and easy dinner option that's ready in just 20 minutes! Featuring tender tilapia fillets coated in a smoky blend of Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika, this dish is perfectly pan-seared in a sizzling combination of olive oil and butter for a crispy, golden finish. Finished with a zesty squeeze of fresh lemon juice and optional parsley garnish, it’s a tantalizing balance of spice and brightness. Pair this gluten-free, protein-packed dish with steamed veggies, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. Perfect for those busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining, this recipe will have everyone reaching for seconds!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces tilapia fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 piece fresh lemon
- 0.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoons paprika
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Start by patting the tilapia fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a nice sear.
In a small bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each tilapia fillet.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the olive oil and butter, allowing the butter to melt and combine with the oil.
Carefully lay the seasoned tilapia fillets into the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
While the fish is cooking, slice the lemon in half and reserve one half for juicing. Cut the other half into wedges for serving.
Once the tilapia is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets for a burst of brightness.
Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
196 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 11.5 g | 15% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.4 g | 17% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 58 mg | 19% | |
| Sodium | 467 mg | 20% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 3.5 g | 1% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.4 g | ||
| Protein | 20.8 g | 42% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 28 mg | 2% | |
| Iron | 1.2 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 361 mg | 8% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
