Blackened Cod or Monkfish Bites 🐟🔥

These juicy, bite-sized pieces of cod or monkfish are coated in a bold blackened seasoning and quickly pan-seared until lightly charred on the outside and tender inside. They’re perfect as an appetizer, taco filling, salad topper, or main course.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

Fish

1½ pounds (680 g) cod fillets or monkfish tail, cut into 1½-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for finishing)
Lemon wedges, for serving

Blackened Seasoning

2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon brown sugar (optional, for a touch of caramelization)

Garnish

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish

Pat the fish dry with paper towels.
Cut into evenly sized bite-sized pieces.
Drizzle with the olive oil and toss gently to coat.

2. Season

In a small bowl, mix all the blackened seasoning ingredients.
Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the fish.
Toss gently until each piece is well coated.

3. Cook

Skillet Method (Recommended)

Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high to high heat until very hot.
Add a small drizzle of oil if needed.
Place the fish bites in a single layer, leaving space between them.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning carefully, until blackened and the fish flakes easily.

Air Fryer Method

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange the fish bites in a single layer.
Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Oven Method

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Arrange the fish on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, turning once halfway through.

4. Finish

Brush with melted butter (optional).
Sprinkle with parsley and a little lemon zest.
Serve with fresh lemon wedges.

Serving Suggestions

These blackened fish bites are delicious with:

Garlic aioli
Remoulade sauce
Tartar sauce
Chipotle mayo
Coleslaw
Cilantro-lime rice
Roasted vegetables
French fries or sweet potato fries
Warm tortillas for fish tacos
A crisp green salad

Flavor Variations

Cajun Butter

Toss the cooked fish in:

2 tablespoons melted butter
1 minced garlic clove
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

Honey-Lime

Drizzle with:

1 tablespoon honey
Juice of ½ lime

Mediterranean

Season with:

Lemon zest
Fresh dill
Crumbled feta cheese

Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Best enjoyed fresh, but cooked fish can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Warm gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven or in an air fryer for 3–4 minutes to help maintain the texture.

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving, using cod)

Calories: 240
Protein: 34 g
Carbohydrates: 3 g
Fat: 10 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 620 mg

Tips for Perfect Blackened Fish Bites

Pat the fish very dry before seasoning so it develops a flavorful crust instead of steaming.
Monkfish is firmer and meatier than cod, making it especially good for skewers and grilling.
Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if necessary so the fish browns properly.
Let the skillet get very hot before adding the fish for the best blackened crust.