Description
This Pan Fried Tilapia recipe features lightly seasoned tilapia filets cooked to perfection in a hot skillet, topped with a homemade Parsley Lemon Butter that adds a burst of fresh and zesty flavors. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a quick and delicious seafood meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Fish and Seasoning
- 4 tilapia filets (6 oz each)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
Parsley Lemon Butter
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For Serving
- Lemon slices
- Fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Prepare Parsley Lemon Butter: Combine the salted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped fresh parsley in a food processor. Blend until smooth.
- Shape and Chill Butter: Transfer the butter mixture onto plastic wrap and form it into a cylinder shape. Wrap tightly and refrigerate until firm to set.
- Dry and Season Tilapia: Pat the tilapia filets dry using paper towels. In a bowl, mix garlic powder, coarse salt, black pepper, paprika, and lemon zest. Rub the filets with olive or avocado oil, then coat evenly with the seasoning mixture on all sides.
- Heat Skillet: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Tilapia: Place the seasoned filets into the hot skillet. Cook the first side for 2-3 minutes until the edges turn white and opaque. Flip the filets and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes until the fish flakes easily and has reached an internal temperature of 140°F.
- Add Butter and Serve: Turn off the heat and place a tablespoon of the chilled Parsley Lemon Butter on top of each filet to melt slightly. Remove the tilapia from the pan and serve immediately garnished with fresh lemon slices and chopped parsley.
Notes
- Ensure the tilapia is fully thawed and patted dry to achieve a good sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 140°F for perfect doneness.
- Butter can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Substitute fresh parsley with other fresh herbs like chives or dill for a different flavor profile.
- Use avocado oil for a higher smoke point if preferred over olive oil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
