Get ready to elevate your dinner game with these 18 mouth-watering tilapia and rice recipes! Tilapia is a versatile fish that can be cooked in a variety of ways, from pan-searing to baking, grilling, or even making tacos. When paired with flavorful rice dishes, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or a special occasion meal, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 crispy tilapia and rice recipes that will delight your taste buds. From classic pairings like lemon garlic rice to international flavors like cilantro lime rice and turmeric basmati rice, there’s something for everyone. So grab your apron, preheat your oven or stove, and get ready to cook up a storm!
Pan-Seared Tilapia with Lemon Garlic Rice
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with the zesty brightness of lemon and the richness of garlic, all wrapped up in a simple and satisfying dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season tilapia with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add tilapia and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate pan, combine lemon juice, garlic, and cooked rice. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until heated through.
5. Serve tilapia with lemon garlic rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blackened Tilapia and Cilantro Lime Rice
Experience the bold flavors of the Gulf Coast with this simple yet impressive recipe. Pan-seared tilapia is blackened to perfection and served atop a vibrant cilantro lime rice, making for a delightful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 limes, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning and olive oil.
3. Season tilapia fillets with the blackening mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tilapia and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the rice: Bring water to a boil, add rice and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
6. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve tilapia atop the cilantro lime rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Tilapia with Coconut Jasmine Rice
Experience the harmonious blend of flavors from the East and West with this simple yet impressive dish, featuring tender tilapia paired with fragrant coconut jasmine rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 cups water
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut milk, water, and salt.
3. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions using the coconut milk mixture instead of regular water.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place tilapia fillets on the sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle lemon zest.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Serve with cooked jasmine rice and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Tilapia and Tomato Basil Rice
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of grilled tilapia with the freshness of tomato basil rice, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Tilapia:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tomato Basil Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season tilapia fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced tomato and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve grilled tilapia on top of tomato basil rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tilapia Tacos with Spanish Rice
Experience the flavorful combination of tender tilapia, crunchy slaw, and savory Spanish rice in this easy-to-make taco recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Spanish rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook Spanish rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tilapia fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together chopped bell pepper, onion, jalapeño, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing tilapia on a tortilla, topping with Spanish rice mixture, and garnishing with radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Tilapia with Pineapple Fried Rice
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the crunch of crispy tilapia with the sweetness of pineapple fried rice. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season tilapia with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook tilapia for 2-3 minutes per side or until crispy. Transfer to oven and bake for 5 minutes.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining oil, mixed vegetables, pineapple, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked rice with vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve tilapia on top of pineapple fried rice. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tilapia and Mushroom Wild Rice Pilaf
This hearty pilaf combines the flavors of tender tilapia, earthy mushrooms, and nutty wild rice for a satisfying main dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb tilapia fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup wild rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using 4 cups water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add tilapia and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
5. Add cooked tilapia back into the skillet with mushroom mixture; stir to combine.
6. Fluff cooked wild rice with a fork and mix with tilapia-mushroom mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Tilapia with Parmesan Rice
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the simplicity of parmesan rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and salt.
3. Place tilapia fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush both sides of the fish with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine cooked rice and grated parmesan cheese in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve tilapia with Parmesan rice and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tilapia Curry with Turmeric Basmati Rice
This flavorful and aromatic curry dish is a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and tender tilapia. Serve it with the warm and inviting turmeric basmati rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
For the Tilapia Curry:
– 1 pound tilapia fillets
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Turmeric Basmati Rice:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions until golden. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add tilapia fillets and cook until opaque and flaky.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and fish broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the tilapia curry over the warm turmeric basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tilapia and Black Bean Rice Bowl
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and nutritious bowl featuring spicy tilapia, black beans, and creamy rice. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, onion, jalapeño, garlic, and cumin.
3. Place tilapia fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush with the spice mixture.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
6. Serve tilapia on top of black beans and rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tilapia Piccata with Lemon Herb Rice
Tilapia Piccata with Lemon Herb Rice: A bright and citrusy twist on a classic Italian dish. This recipe combines tender tilapia, tangy lemon sauce, and flavorful herbs with a side of aromatic rice for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– For the rice:
+ 1 cup uncooked white rice
+ 2 cups water
+ 1 tbsp olive oil
+ 1 lemon, juiced
+ 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season tilapia with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add tilapia and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and add lemon juice, white wine, and chicken broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve with Lemon Herb Rice (cook according to package instructions).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes.
Tilapia Stir-Fry with Vegetable Fried Rice
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with the savory taste of vegetable fried rice, making it a quick and easy dinner option. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb tilapia fillets
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until tender.
4. Season with soy sauce and set aside.
5. In a separate pan, heat some oil and add the tilapia fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve the tilapia on top of the vegetable fried rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tilapia en Papillote with Saffron Rice
Tilapia en Papillote with Saffron Rice: A Flaky Fish and Fragrant Grain Pairing
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with the rich, buttery taste of saffron rice. By cooking the ingredients in a parchment paper packet, the dish retains its moisture and flavors while being easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 1 tbsp hot water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until cooked.
3. Meanwhile, season tilapia with salt and pepper.
4. Place a piece of parchment paper on a flat surface. Brush the center with olive oil, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Place a tilapia fillet in the center, then spoon saffron rice over the fish.
6. Fold the parchment paper to form a packet, making sure the edges are sealed tightly.
7. Repeat for remaining fillets and place on a baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Tilapia and Spinach Rice Casserole
A flavorful and nutritious casserole that combines the tenderness of tilapia with the creamy goodness of spinach rice. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tilapia fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add tilapia and cook until flaky, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked spinach leaves and lemon juice. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked rice, tilapia mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using). Mix well.
7. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tilapia with Mango Salsa and Coconut Rice
Elevate your dinner routine with this flavorful combination of pan-seared tilapia, sweet mango salsa, and creamy coconut rice. This tropical-inspired dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup coconut rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season tilapia with salt and pepper.
3. Pan-sear tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Cook coconut rice according to package instructions.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and honey.
6. Serve pan-seared tilapia with mango salsa spooned on top and coconut rice on the side.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tilapia and Broccoli Cheese Rice Bake
This flavorful casserole combines succulent tilapia with tender broccoli, creamy cheese, and savory rice for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tilapia fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add tilapia and cook until browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate pot, combine broccoli and 1/4 cup water. Cook until tender, then drain excess water.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked rice, tilapia, broccoli, and shredded cheese.
5. Mix in milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tilapia Puttanesca with Tomato Rice
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and savory Tilapia Puttanesca, served atop a bed of aromatic tomato rice. This Italian-inspired dish combines the brightness of olives and capers with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup tomato rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Cook tomato rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add tilapia fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in olives, capers, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve fish atop tomato rice and dot with butter.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tilapia and Avocado Rice Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flaky texture of tilapia with the creaminess of avocado, all on a bed of flavorful rice. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tilapia fillets
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season tilapia with salt and pepper. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and chopped cilantro.
3. Flake the cooked tilapia into small pieces and add to the bowl. Squeeze lime juice over the top and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 crispy tilapia and rice recipes! From classic pan-seared tilapia with lemon garlic rice to adventurous options like tilapia tacos with Spanish rice, there’s something for everyone. Try baking tilapia with coconut jasmine rice or grilling it with tomato basil rice. For a twist, go for crispy tilapia with pineapple fried rice or tilapia curry with turmeric basmati rice. Whatever your taste, these flavorful recipes are sure to please.
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