Grilled Tilapia

On hot, lazy summer days, nothing beats a no-mess meal. This tilapia is one of the easiest grilled fish recipes of all time, cooked to flaky perfection in a foil packet alongside tender asparagus, slices of fresh lemon, fragrant herbs, and a generous pat of butter. The foil locks in moisture and flavor, creating an all-in-one dinner that’s light, refreshing, and perfect for warm weather. Best of all, cleanup is a breeze! There’s no skillet to scrub or grill grates to clean. Just unwrap the foil and dig in to one of summer's best grilling recipes.

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Can you use other fish besides tilapia?

Yes! Any thin white fish fillets—such as red snapper, sole, or flounder—are great substitutes and will cook in the same amount of time as tilapia. If you’re using a thicker fillet like cod, salmon, or grouper, you’ll need to increase the cook time slightly, usually to 14 to 16 minutes, depending on thickness. Just check that the fish flakes easily with a fork—that’s your best doneness indicator.

What are the best seasonings for tilapia?

Tilapia’s mild, delicate flavor makes it the perfect canvas for all kinds of seasonings. This recipe keeps things simple with garlic powder, salt, pepper, butter, and a squeeze of lemon. But feel free to raid your spice rack! A sprinkle of chili powder, coriander, or your favorite barbecue rub can add a fun twist. You can also switch up the herbs and use fresh thyme, rosemary, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Do you flip the fish when grilling?

No, not with this recipe! The beauty of this method is that there’s no need to flip the fish, worry about it sticking to the grill, or fear it falling through the grates. Everything is neatly contained in a sealed foil packet ,which allows the fish and vegetables to cook from the heat below and also from the steam that surrounds them. It’s a foolproof way to grill delicate or small foods—like flaky fish or shrimp—without any hassle.