Tilapia is a versatile and healthy fish that can be prepared in many ways. Grilling tilapia in the Ninja Foodi Grill is an excellent option as it cooks the fish quickly while adding great flavor. Grilled tilapia has a delicious, slightly charred exterior while the interior remains moist and flaky.
In this comprehensive guide we will provide tips and step-by-step instructions on how to grill tilapia to perfection in the Ninja Foodi Grill.
Benefits of Grilling Tilapia in the Ninja Foodi Grill
There are several advantages to using the Ninja Foodi Grill to prepare tilapia
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Quick cooking time – The Ninja Foodi Grill heats up rapidly and uses convection technology to cook food fast. Tilapia fillets can be cooked in just 6-8 minutes per side.
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Versatile cooking – The grill offers different settings like air crisp, roast, bake, and dehydrate that can all be used to cook tilapia. You can experiment to get the texture you prefer.
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Even cooking – The grill grates get evenly hot, preventing cold or burnt spots. The fish cooks uniformly.
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Adds flavor – The high heat of grilling seals in moisture while adding delicious charred bits. You can add rubs, marinades, or sauces for more flavor.
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Easy grill marks – The Ninja Foodi Grill makes perfect grill marks on fish. This gives the tilapia an appetizing, restaurant-quality appearance.
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Less mess – Unlike outdoor grilling, there’s minimal mess or flare-ups. The drip tray collects juices for easy cleanup.
Step-by-Step Instructions on Grilling Tilapia
Follow these simple steps for grilling moist, flaky tilapia fillets in the Ninja Food Grill every time.
Ingredients Needed
- Tilapia fillets, 4-6 ounces each
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, herbs
- Lemon wedges for serving
Prep the Tilapia
- Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water and pat dry completely with paper towels. Make sure no moisture is left on the surface.
- Brush both sides of the fillets lightly with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. This prevents sticking.
- Season the fish evenly on both sides with salt, pepper, and any other dry spices or herbs of your choice.
Preheat and Grill
- Pre-heat the Ninja Foodi Grill on grill setting to 400°F- 450°F.
- Once hot, place the fillets on the grill grates. Grill skin-side down first.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes until grill marks appear. Flip and grill the other side for 3-4 minutes until opaque and flakes easily.
- Check for doneness by inserting a fork in the thickest part. It should flake easily when ready.
- Immediately remove from grill and serve.
Optional Steps
- For more flavor, brush a simple compound butter (melted butter + herbs) on the fillets while grilling.
- Lightly brush the cooked fish with lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
- Use air crisp mode at 390°F for 2-3 minutes after grilling to make the outside extra crispy.
Serve and Enjoy
Your restaurant-worthy grilled tilapia is ready! Serve it with veggies or grains along with lemon wedges. The fish tastes amazing on its own or pairs well with fresh salsas, chimichurri or tartar sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Tips for Grilling Tilapia to Perfection
Follow these tips to take your Ninja Foodi grilled tilapia to the next level:
- Pat tilapia fillets very dry before grilling. Moisture will steam the fish.
- Use skin-on fillets for added flavor and moisture. Score skin before grilling.
- Brush a thin layer of oil on the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Get good grill marks by not moving the fish after placing on the grill.
- Use a meat thermometer to check 145°F internal temperature when done.
- Avoid overcooking. Tilapia gets dry if cooked too long.
- Add fresh herbs, citrus or compounds butters for extra flavor.
- Let the fish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Common FAQs
Can you grill frozen tilapia on the Ninja Foodi Grill?
Yes, but thaw it completely first. Partially frozen fish risks unsafe cooking. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
What is the best temperature for grilling tilapia?
The ideal temperature range is 400°F to 450°F. This ensures the exterior gets nicely charred while the interior cooks through.
How long does it take to grill tilapia?
Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Check for doneness at 145°F internal temperature or when it flakes easily with a fork.
Should I flip the fish only once while grilling?
Yes, flip only once. Flipping repeatedly risks the fish breaking apart. Resist the urge to move it until grill marks appear.
Can I grill tilapia on a stove grill pan?
Absolutely. Preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook in the same way per the instructions in this article.
What can I use if I don’t have a Ninja Foodi Grill?
You can use a cast iron grill pan or outdoor grill. Follow the same instructions at 400°F-450°F cooking temperature.
Grilled Tilapia Recipe Ideas
With the right techniques, you can make amazing tilapia meals in the Ninja Foodi Grill. Try out these delicious recipe ideas:
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Lemon Garlic Tilapia – Grill tilapia brushed with a lemon garlic butter.
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Jerk Tilapia – Infuse Caribbean flavors using a jerk seasoning dry rub.
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Teriyaki Tilapia – Marinate fillets in a sweet and salty teriyaki sauce before grilling.
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Cajun Blackened Tilapia – Coat with Cajun seasoning for a little kick.
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Tilapia Tacos – Chop grilled tilapia and add to soft tortillas for a crowd-pleasing taco night.
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Tilapia Burgers – Make patties using minced tilapia, breadcrumbs, and herbs then grill to perfection.
With the right preparations and cooking technique, the Ninja Foodi Grill can produce restaurant-quality grilled tilapia at home. Follow the instructions outlined above for moist, flaky and full-flavored fish. Get creative with different seasonings, glazes or sauces. Grilled tilapia also makes for amazing tacos, sandwiches, grains bowls or salad topping.
So get grilling and enjoy tasty tilapia meals with ease at home with your Ninja Foodi Grill!