Description
This blackened mahi mahi recipe is quick, flavorful, and easy to make. Coated in bold Cajun-style seasoning and cooked in a hot skillet, this dish delivers a crispy, spicy crust with a tender, flaky inside. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner in just 20 minutes! Serve it with mango salsa, rice, or a light salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Fish:
- 2 mahi mahi fillets (6–8 oz each)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed
For the Blackening Spice Mix:
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Fish:
- Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with a paper towel.
- Brush both sides with melted butter or olive oil.
- Sprinkle the blackening spice mix evenly on both sides, pressing it gently to adhere.
2️⃣ Heat the Pan:
- Heat a cast-iron skillet (or heavy-bottomed pan) over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
- Add 1 tbsp of butter and let it melt.
3️⃣ Blacken the Fish:
- Place the seasoned fillets in the pan and do not move them for 2-3 minutes.
- Flip carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 137°F (58°C) and flakes easily.
4️⃣ Finish and Serve:
- Remove from the pan and let the fish rest for 1-2 minutes.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.
Notes
- If using frozen mahi mahi, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place it in cold water for 30 minutes.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper for a milder or spicier version.
- If you don’t have all the individual spices, use Cajun seasoning as a shortcut.
- Works well with grilling, baking, or air frying as alternative cooking methods.
- Best served with mango salsa, garlic mashed potatoes, or cilantro-lime rice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (approximately 6-8 oz)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Blackened mahi mahi, Cajun mahi mahi, skillet mahi mahi, spicy fish recipe, easy fish dinner, blackened fish recipe, pan-seared mahi mahi, healthy seafood dish.