Are you tired of the same old weeknight meals? Look no further! Tilapia is a versatile and affordable fish that can be paired with a variety of flavors and grains to create delicious and satisfying dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering tilapia and rice recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
From classic combinations like garlic butter tilapia with lemon rice to more adventurous pairings like coconut lime tilapia with jasmine rice, there’s something for everyone in this list. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy Cajun flavors or creamy Mediterranean herbs, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead and get cooking – your taste buds will thank you!
Garlic Butter Tilapia with Lemon Rice
This flavorful recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a tender and flaky tilapia filet. Serve it with a side of citrusy lemon rice for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Place tilapia fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over each filet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Squeeze in some fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Tilapia and Dirty Rice
Get ready for a taste of Louisiana with this flavorful recipe that combines the spiciness of Cajun seasoning with the richness of tilapia. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Dirty Rice mix
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Brush both sides of tilapia fillets with olive oil and season with the spice mixture.
4. Place tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook Dirty Rice according to package instructions.
6. Serve tilapia with dirty rice, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Lime Tilapia with Jasmine Rice
Coconut Lime Tilapia with Jasmine Rice: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the freshness of lime, the richness of coconut, and the simplicity of tilapia.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together coconut, lime juice, ginger, and garlic powder.
3. Place tilapia fillets in the coconut mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth.
6. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with cooked jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackened Tilapia and Cilantro Lime Rice
Experience the bold flavors of the South American coast with this quick and flavorful recipe. Pan-seared tilapia is blackened to perfection and served atop a zesty cilantro lime rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt, pepper, and blackening seasoning.
4. Add tilapia to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Stir in cilantro and lime juice into the cooked rice.
6. Serve the blackened tilapia atop the cilantro lime rice.
Cooking Time:
– Tilapia: 12-15 minutes
– Rice: 18-20 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Tilapia with Herbed Rice
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and effortless recipe that combines the richness of Parmesan cheese with the delicate taste of tilapia, served atop a savory herbed rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Dip each tilapia fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve atop herbed rice (cook according to package instructions) and garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Tilapia and Vegetable Fried Rice
This sweet and savory dish combines the tender flavor of tilapia with the comforting warmth of vegetable fried rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
For the Teriyaki Glaze:
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
For the Tilapia and Vegetable Fried Rice:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together glaze ingredients. Brush the glaze over tilapia fillets.
3. Bake tilapia for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
5. Stir in cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve tilapia on top of vegetable fried rice, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Tilapia with Tomato Basil Rice
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this vibrant dish that combines the freshness of tomatoes, basil, and lemon with the richness of tilapia.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups fresh tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cooked rice, diced tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Place tilapia fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Top each fillet with the tomato-basil mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Tilapia with Mushroom Risotto
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with the earthy taste of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy risotto. The result is a satisfying and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the chicken broth over low heat.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion, mushrooms, and garlic in olive oil until tender.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
6. Place tilapia fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with butter and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve risotto alongside the baked tilapia.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tilapia Tacos with Mango Salsa and Cilantro Rice
Experience the perfect blend of tropical flavors and crispy texture with this refreshing Tilapia Tacos recipe, topped with sweet Mango Salsa and flavorful Cilantro Rice.
Ingredients:
For the Tilapia:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp cilantro leaves, chopped
– Salt to taste
For the Cilantro Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season tilapia with cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pan-sear tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Finish in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes.
4. Prepare Mango Salsa by combining ingredients in a bowl; adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Cook Cilantro Rice according to package instructions. Mix in chopped cilantro and olive oil.
6. Assemble tacos by placing cooked tilapia on a warm tortilla, topping with Mango Salsa, and serving with Cilantro Rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creole Tilapia and Red Beans with Rice
Experience the flavors of Louisiana with this classic Creole dish, featuring tender tilapia, creamy red beans, and flavorful rice. This recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add tilapia fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate pot, combine red beans, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
5. Serve tilapia with red bean mixture over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Grilled Tilapia with Pineapple Coconut Rice
A flavorful and tropical twist on traditional grilled fish, this recipe combines the delicate taste of tilapia with the sweetness of pineapple and the creaminess of coconut rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup shredded fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, and coconut oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
3. While rice cooks, season tilapia with salt and pepper.
4. Grill tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. To assemble, place grilled tilapia on top of coconut rice, and sprinkle with shredded pineapple and unsweetened coconut.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tilapia Piccata with Lemon Parsley Rice
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with the brightness of lemon and parsley, all wrapped up in a crispy piccata-style dish. Serve as a main course or as part of a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season tilapia with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Dip in eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook tilapia for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Serve with lemon parsley rice: Cook white rice according to package instructions. Mix in 1 tbsp lemon juice and 2 tbsp chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Curry Tilapia and Coconut Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this easy-to-make recipe that combines tender tilapia with creamy coconut rice and a spicy Thai curry sauce.
Ingredients:
For the tilapia:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the coconut rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together curry paste, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place tilapia fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with oil and sprinkle with the curry mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook coconut rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and stir in coconut milk, water, and butter.
6. Serve tilapia on top of coconut rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tilapia and Spinach Rice Casserole
A delicious and healthy casserole that combines the flavors of tilapia, spinach, and rice in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tilapia fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté tilapia, onion, and garlic until fish is cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, spinach, cream of chicken soup, milk, and thyme.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half the rice mixture, followed by the tilapia mixture, then repeat layers.
5. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Sriracha Tilapia with Sticky Rice
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful combination of honey sriracha tilapia paired with sticky rice. The sweet and spicy flavors of the tilapia perfectly complement the savory and slightly sweet rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup sticky rice (uncooked)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Place tilapia fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush the honey-Sriracha mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Drizzle vegetable oil over the fish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook sticky rice according to package instructions.
7. Serve tilapia atop sticky rice, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tilapia Puttanesca with Garlic Rice
Tilapia Puttanesca with Garlic Rice: A bold and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the richness of olives, capers, and tomatoes with the delicate taste of tilapia.
Ingredients:
For the Tilapia:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For the Garlic Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add tilapia fillets; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add crushed tomatoes, olives, capers, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Cook garlic rice according to package instructions. Mix in olive oil and minced garlic.
6. Serve tilapia with puttanesca sauce over garlic rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tilapia and Black Bean Rice Bowls
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and nutritious dish, combining pan-seared tilapia with black beans, Mexican-inspired spices, and a hint of lime. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado slices, diced tomatoes, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season tilapia with salt, pepper, and cumin.
3. Pan-fry tilapia in olive oil for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a separate pan, heat black beans over medium heat with a squeeze of lime juice.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions.
6. Assemble bowls by placing cooked tilapia on top of rice, followed by black beans and cilantro.
7. Add desired toppings (avocado, tomatoes, sour cream).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tilapia with Saffron Rice and Peas
This flavorful dish combines the delicate taste of tilapia, the warmth of saffron-infused rice, and the sweetness of fresh peas. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using saffron-infused water.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Thaw peas by rinsing under cold water. Add to the baked tilapia and toss to combine.
5. Serve tilapia with saffron rice and peas.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 flavorful tilapia and rice recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic combinations like garlic butter tilapia with lemon rice to international twists like teriyaki glazed tilapia with vegetable fried rice, these recipes are quick, easy, and delicious. Other highlights include spicy cajun tilapia with dirty rice, parmesan crusted tilapia with herbed rice, and honey sriracha tilapia with sticky rice. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and citrusy or rich and savory, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.