Baked Tilapia in Foil Packets (Oven, Grill or Air Fryer!)

Tired of spending too much time cooking during the week? This baked tilapia in foil is an easy, flavorful one-shot dinner you can prep in minutes. Seasoned tilapia fillets are wrapped up with veggies like corn, okra, and baby potatoes, then baked, grilled, or air-fried to perfection. No fuss, no frying, just flavor.

Let’s face it, some nights we just want to get in and out of the kitchen. As much as I love cooking, I don’t always have the time (or energy) to be in there all day putting together dinner. That’s why recipes like this are a lifesaver. Just like my pasta in coconut milk, this one’s quick, simple, and full of flavor.

Quick doesn’t mean boring. Even when I’m short on time, flavor is non-negotiable—and this foil packet tilapia absolutely delivers.

So let me introduce you to one of my go-to dinner hacks. A packet of well-seasoned tilapia wrapped in foil, packed with delicious veggies, and baked quickly in the oven. You can also toss it in your air fryer or onto the grill. It’s super flexible.

What are foil packets

Foil packet cooking is a method where meat and vegetables are sealed in aluminum foil and cooked using steam. It’s low-maintenance, mess-free, and doesn’t require a lot of oil or butter. Basically, it’s your weeknight MVP.

What I love about this method is how customizable it is. You can use whatever veggies or herbs you have on hand. It can be basic or bougie. Your call.

How to make baked tilapia in foil

Ingredients you will need

Here’s my base combo, but don’t be afraid to remix it with what’s in your fridge.

Main Ingredients:

• Tilapia fillets (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• Butter (or garlic/lemon butter for extra flavor)
• Salt and black pepper
• Green seasoning or your favorite fish spice blend

Veggies I Love:

• Baby potatoes
• Corn (on the cob, cut into chunks)
• Okra (aka ochro)
• Carrots

Flavor Boosters:

• Chives
• Green onions
• Thyme
• Lemon or lime slices

Optional Add-ins:

Zucchini, christophene, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, frozen veggie mixes

Equipment

• Aluminum foil (cut into large sheets)
• Baking sheet
• Kitchen twine (if using parchment instead of foil)

Instructions

Wrapping is super simple—especially if you prep your foil and ingredients ahead of time.

Step-by-Step:

1. Preheat oven (or air fryer/grill) to 350°F.
2. Cut foil sheets big enough to hold the fish and veggies.
3. Season your fish with green seasoning, salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of lime or lemon. Let it sit for a bit.
4. Add butter (about 1 tbsp) to the center of the foil. It prevents sticking and adds flavor. Garlic or lemon butter? Yes, please.
5. Place fish on top of the butter, horizontally.
6. Top with veggies—but not too much. A little of each goes a long way.

7. Add herbs or lemon slices last, especially if they’re delicate.
8. Fold foil into a loose tent, then seal the edges by rolling them down. Don’t wrap it too tight leave space for steam. And avoid poking holes!
9. Place packets on a baking sheet in a single layer.

Bake (or air fry/grill) at 350°F for 25 minutes. If your fish is thick or your veggies chunky, give it a few extra minutes.

To check for doneness, carefully open one packet and flake the fish with a fork.

Can you make these ahead

Absolutely. I often make a big batch and freeze them for future meals.

How to freeze foil packets

After sealing your packets:

• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Place them in a gallon freezer bag, laid flat.
• Label with the date.

How to cook from frozen

No need to thaw! Bake directly at 350°F for 35 minutes. Expect a little extra liquid in the packet (thanks to the frozen veggies releasing moisture), but the flavor stays on point.

If already baked and stored in the fridge, reheat at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes.

Foil allergy? No problem

If you avoid aluminum (or your cousin breaks out in hives at the sight of it), use parchment paper instead. Just fold the sides tightly and secure the ends with kitchen string. Works like a charm.

What to serve with baked tilapia packets

Honestly? I usually eat it as-is. But if you want to bulk it up:

• Boiled plantains or cassava in butter
• Yellow rice or brown rice
• Bread or roti to mop up that delicious sauce
• And yes a glass of wine is always welcome

These tilapia foil packets are one of those back-pocket recipes you’ll keep coming back to. They’re great for weeknights, meal prep, or even tossing on the grill during a beach day or camping trip. Simple, customizable, and just plain good.

Tried it?

Let me know in the comments if you’ve made these foil packet meals or if you tried your own veggie combo! And don’t forget to check out other quick dinners like instant pot saltfish and rice or coconut milk pasta.

Recipe