Tilapia is a mild, flaky fish that’s perfect for easy and flavorful Friday dinners.
It cooks quickly, absorbs seasonings well, and pairs beautifully with vegetables, grains, and sauces.
These 15 Friday tilapia recipes are designed to be simple, delicious, and satisfying.
From baked and grilled options to pan-seared and poached dishes, there’s a recipe for every taste.
Using fresh tilapia with complementary herbs, spices, and sides, these recipes make seafood dinners effortless and enjoyable.
Celebrate the end of the week with wholesome, light, and flavorful tilapia meals.
15 Delicious Friday Tilapia Recipes You’ll Love
These 15 recipes offer a variety of cooking methods, sauces, and flavor combinations for every preference.
From weeknight meals to elegant Friday dinners, there’s a tilapia recipe for every occasion.
Experiment with citrus, herbs, and vegetables to enhance flavors and create vibrant dishes.
Tilapia is nutritious, versatile, and perfect for light, delicious end-of-week meals.
With these recipes, you can enjoy effortless, wholesome, and flavorful Friday dinners anytime.
Lemon Butter Tilapia
This Lemon Butter Tilapia is tender, flavorful, and buttery.
Tilapia fillets are pan-seared with a lemon and butter sauce that enhances the delicate flavor of the fish.
The result is a light yet satisfying Friday dinner perfect for seafood lovers.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tbsp butter
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add tilapia fillets and cook 3–4 minutes per side until opaque and flakes easily.
- Remove fillets from skillet and set aside.
- Stir remaining butter, lemon juice, and zest into the pan to create the sauce.
- Pour sauce over the tilapia and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with steamed vegetables or rice.
This Lemon Butter Tilapia is light, tender, and flavorful.
The lemon and butter complement the delicate fish perfectly.
It is ideal for a quick and elegant Friday dinner.
A simple yet impressive dish that works for family meals or casual entertaining.
Garlic Herb Tilapia
This Garlic Herb Tilapia is aromatic, tender, and savory.
Tilapia fillets are seasoned with fresh herbs and garlic, then baked to perfection.
The herbs infuse the fish with flavor while keeping it moist and delicate.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the fillets and rub with garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve with lemon wedges or a side of vegetables.
This Garlic Herb Tilapia is aromatic, flavorful, and tender.
The combination of garlic and herbs enhances the mild taste of tilapia.
It is perfect for a healthy and easy Friday dinner.
A simple, elegant dish suitable for weeknight meals or casual entertaining.
Tilapia with Tomato Basil Sauce
This Tilapia with Tomato Basil Sauce is vibrant, tangy, and aromatic.
Tilapia fillets are pan-seared and topped with a fresh tomato and basil sauce for a flavorful Friday meal.
The sauce complements the delicate fish while adding color and richness.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper and sear 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Remove fish from the skillet and set aside.
- Add garlic and cherry tomatoes to the skillet and sauté 3–4 minutes until tomatoes soften.
- Stir in fresh basil and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour tomato basil sauce over the tilapia fillets.
- Serve immediately with pasta or steamed vegetables.
This Tilapia with Tomato Basil Sauce is colorful, fresh, and flavorful.
The combination of tomatoes and basil enhances the delicate fish.
It is perfect for a healthy and elegant Friday dinner.
A bright and satisfying dish ideal for family or guests.
Spicy Cajun Tilapia
This Spicy Cajun Tilapia is bold, zesty, and flavorful.
Tilapia fillets are coated with Cajun seasoning and pan-seared for a crispy, spicy finish.
The heat pairs beautifully with a squeeze of fresh lemon, creating a satisfying Friday meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add fillets and sear 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly crispy.
- Remove fillets from skillet and place on a serving platter.
- Serve with fresh lemon wedges and a side of vegetables.
This Spicy Cajun Tilapia is bold, flavorful, and zesty.
The spices enhance the mild tilapia while adding a kick of heat.
It is perfect for a lively and satisfying Friday dinner.
A quick and impressive dish ideal for spice lovers and casual meals.
Tilapia with Garlic Lemon Cream Sauce
This Tilapia with Garlic Lemon Cream Sauce is rich, tangy, and creamy.
Tilapia fillets are pan-seared and topped with a smooth garlic and lemon cream sauce for a decadent Friday meal.
The creamy sauce enhances the tender fish without overpowering it.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear fillets 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through and golden.
- Remove fillets from skillet and set aside.
- Add garlic to the skillet and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest, simmering 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return fillets to the skillet and coat with sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This Tilapia with Garlic Lemon Cream Sauce is rich, tangy, and indulgent.
The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with tender, flaky tilapia.
It is ideal for a luxurious and satisfying Friday dinner.
A decadent yet simple dish perfect for family meals or special occasions
Teriyaki Tilapia
This Teriyaki Tilapia is sweet, savory, and flavorful.
Tilapia fillets are marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce and pan-seared to perfection.
The glaze caramelizes slightly during cooking, giving the fish a rich, mouthwatering flavor ideal for a Friday dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger to make the teriyaki marinade.
- Place tilapia fillets in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them.
- Cover and refrigerate 15–20 minutes to marinate.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Remove fillets from marinade, reserving the marinade, and sear 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and simmer 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Drizzle sauce over the cooked tilapia.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
This Teriyaki Tilapia is sweet, savory, and aromatic.
The caramelized glaze enhances the mild tilapia beautifully.
It is perfect for a quick, elegant Friday dinner.
A flavorful, visually appealing dish ideal for family or entertaining.
Mediterranean Tilapia
This Mediterranean Tilapia is fresh, tangy, and aromatic.
Tilapia fillets are baked with olives, cherry tomatoes, capers, and lemon for a colorful Friday meal.
The Mediterranean flavors enhance the fish while keeping it light and healthy.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 tbsp capers, rinsed
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place tilapia fillets in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- Scatter cherry tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, lemon juice, and zest over the fillets.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve warm with steamed vegetables or rice.
This Mediterranean Tilapia is vibrant, fresh, and flavorful.
The combination of olives, tomatoes, and lemon brightens the dish.
It is perfect for a healthy and satisfying Friday dinner.
A colorful and aromatic dish ideal for family or guests.
Pesto Tilapia
This Pesto Tilapia is rich, herbaceous, and satisfying.
Tilapia fillets are coated in basil pesto and baked for a flavorful Friday meal.
The pesto infuses the fish with aromatic flavors while keeping it moist and tender.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spread pesto evenly over each fillet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle garlic on top.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve with fresh lemon wedges and a side of vegetables or salad.
This Pesto Tilapia is herbaceous, flavorful, and tender.
The fresh pesto enhances the delicate flavor of tilapia.
It is perfect for a quick, healthy Friday dinner.
A simple yet elegant dish ideal for weeknight meals or casual entertaining.
Blackened Tilapia
This Blackened Tilapia is bold, smoky, and spicy.
Tilapia fillets are coated with Cajun-inspired spices and seared to create a crispy crust.
The bold seasoning adds depth and flavor while keeping the fish moist and tender.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to make the spice blend.
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and coat both sides with the spice mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add fillets and sear 3–4 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through.
- Remove from skillet and serve immediately.
- Garnish with lemon wedges or fresh parsley.
This Blackened Tilapia is bold, smoky, and flavorful.
The spices create a crispy crust while keeping the fish tender.
It is perfect for a zesty and satisfying Friday dinner.
A visually striking and delicious dish ideal for spice lovers.
Baked Parmesan Tilapia
This Baked Parmesan Tilapia is crispy, cheesy, and savory.
Tilapia fillets are coated with a Parmesan breadcrumb mixture and baked until golden brown.
The crust adds texture while keeping the fish tender and moist, perfect for a Friday meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow bowl, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and brush lightly with olive oil.
- Press each fillet into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Place coated fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until fish flakes easily and the crust is golden brown.
- Serve with lemon wedges and a side of vegetables or rice.
This Baked Parmesan Tilapia is crispy, cheesy, and flavorful.
The Parmesan breadcrumb crust enhances the delicate fish beautifully.
It is perfect for a satisfying and elegant Friday dinner.
A simple, delicious dish ideal for family meals or entertaining.
Thai Coconut Tilapia
This Thai Coconut Tilapia is creamy, fragrant, and slightly spicy.
Tilapia fillets are cooked in a coconut milk-based sauce infused with ginger, garlic, lime, and Thai chili for a vibrant Friday dinner.
The sauce is rich and aromatic, perfectly complementing the delicate fish.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 can (400 ml) coconut milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1-2 Thai red chilies, sliced
- Juice and zest of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic, ginger, and chilies, sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in coconut milk, fish sauce, lime juice, and zest, stirring to combine.
- Simmer 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and season lightly with salt.
- Place fillets into the sauce and cook 3–4 minutes per side until fish is opaque and flakes easily.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or sautéed vegetables.
This Thai Coconut Tilapia is creamy, flavorful, and aromatic.
The coconut sauce enhances the delicate fish while adding depth.
It is perfect for a fragrant and exotic Friday dinner.
A bold, satisfying dish ideal for adventurous palates or casual meals.
Indian-Spiced Tilapia
This Indian-Spiced Tilapia is fragrant, mildly spicy, and satisfying.
Tilapia fillets are coated with a blend of cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, then baked to perfection.
The spices infuse the fish with rich, earthy flavors ideal for a Friday dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and rub spice mixture evenly on both sides.
- Place fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the fillets.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve with lemon wedges and a side of vegetables or rice.
This Indian-Spiced Tilapia is aromatic, flavorful, and tender.
The blend of spices adds warmth and depth without overpowering the fish.
It is perfect for a vibrant and satisfying Friday dinner.
A unique and exotic dish ideal for family or guests.
Honey Mustard Tilapia
This Honey Mustard Tilapia is sweet, tangy, and savory.
Tilapia fillets are glazed with a mixture of honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon, then baked until golden and flaky.
The glaze creates a slightly sticky, flavorful coating perfect for Friday dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, and lemon juice.
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush glaze evenly over each fillet.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until fish flakes easily and glaze is caramelized.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
This Honey Mustard Tilapia is sweet, tangy, and flavorful.
The glaze enhances the mild fish with a delightful balance of flavors.
It is perfect for an easy yet elegant Friday dinner.
A quick, satisfying dish ideal for weeknight meals or casual entertaining.
Mango Salsa Tilapia
This Mango Salsa Tilapia is fresh, fruity, and zesty.
Tilapia fillets are baked and topped with a vibrant mango salsa for a bright, tropical Friday meal.
The sweet and tangy salsa complements the tender, flaky fish beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake 12–15 minutes until cooked through.
- In a small bowl, combine mango, red bell pepper, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon mango salsa over baked tilapia fillets.
- Serve immediately with rice or a side salad.
This Mango Salsa Tilapia is fresh, fruity, and colorful.
The sweet and tangy salsa perfectly complements the mild, tender fish.
It is ideal for a light and satisfying Friday dinner.
A vibrant, tropical dish perfect for family or casual entertaining.
Mediterranean Herb Tilapia
This Mediterranean Herb Tilapia is aromatic, tender, and light.
Tilapia fillets are baked with a mixture of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon for a simple, elegant Friday dinner.
The herbs infuse the fish with bright, savory flavors perfect for a healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat tilapia fillets dry and place in a baking dish.
- Drizzle olive oil over fillets and rub with garlic, herbs, lemon juice, and zest.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs before serving.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a light salad.
This Mediterranean Herb Tilapia is fresh, light, and flavorful.
The blend of herbs and lemon enhances the delicate fish.
It is perfect for a healthy and satisfying Friday dinner.
A simple yet elegant dish ideal for family meals or entertaining.
