• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Home
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • START HERE
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
Prepare + Nourish logo
  • Recipes
  • Shop
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • Recipes
  • Shop
  • About
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • First Time? Start Here
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Seafood Recipes » Easy Blackened Cod Fish Tacos Recipe

    Easy Blackened Cod Fish Tacos Recipe

    by: Anya·posted: Dec 21, 2015·updated: May 15, 2023·22 CommentsThis post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
    Blackened Cod Fish Tacos with Creamy Slaw

    Enjoy Easy Blackened Cod Fish Tacos recipe at home with this simple oven-baked recipe. Seasoned with Cajun spices, the fish is cooked to perfection and served on warm tortillas with fresh toppings. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, these tacos are sure to become a family favorite.

    blackened fish tacos with with creamy sauce on white platter.

    Blackened fish tacos are a quick and easy meal with a flavorful punch. The spicy Cajun seasoning adds a kick to the flaky cod, while the fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and tomatoes add a bright and zesty finish. 

    Plus, the tacos are customizable to your liking, whether you prefer a crisp slaw or topped with creamy sauce. You can see the flexibility even in these lengua tacos.

    With minimal prep and cook time, these tacos are perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party.

    Jump to:
    • What is "blackened" fish?
    • Why you'll love this recipe
    • Ingredients
    • Make it Nutrient Dense
    • Helpful Tips
    • Step-by-Step Instructions
    • Helpful Tools & Links
    • Serving Suggestions
    • Storage and Reheating Instructions
    • FAQs
    • Printable Recipe

    What is "blackened" fish?

    Blackened fish is a cooking technique that involves coating fish with a blend of spices and then searing it in a cast-iron skillet until the outside is charred and the inside is cooked to perfection.

    The seasoning used to blacken the fish typically includes a combination of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and other herbs and spices.

    In this blackened cod recipe, we will be cooking the fish in the oven instead of the skillet for a foolproof hands-off meal.

    💭Fun Fact: "Blackening" cooking method is popular in Cajun cuisine and originated in Louisiana, but has become popular across the United States and beyond.

    Why you'll love this recipe

    Easy to make - These blackened cod tacos are a breeze, taking under 30 minutes from start to finish. With just a few simple steps, you can have a flavorful and healthy meal on the table in no time.

    Family favorite - These tacos are a surefire hit with the whole family. The combination of spicy cajun seasoning, crispy fish, and fresh toppings is a crowd-pleaser for everyone asking for seconds.

    Customize to suit your taste buds: The beauty of these tacos is that they are easily customizable to suit your preferences. Don't like spicy food? Use less cajun seasoning. Want to add some extra crunch? Top with some sliced radishes. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make these tacos your own.

    cod fish tacos in sprouted flour tortilla on white platter with tomato on the side.

    Ingredients

    Learn how to make blackened fish tacos in no time. This easy recipe is made with basic ingredients.

    • Cod: The best type of fish is a firm white fish like cod fillets. Cod is exceptionally fantastic with cajun spices and complement the crunchy texture of the coleslaw. Skinless fish fillets are best for this recipe.
    • Cajun seasoning: A simple blend of smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, turmeric, oregano, and cumin will help create truly black cod tacos.
    • Cabbage: Green or red cabbage will both work. To save time, feel free to use bagged shredded coleslaw.
    • Mayonnaise: This is the base of the creamy sauce that will dress the slaw. Make extra to use as a sauce for blackened fish tacos. You can also use sriracha mayonnaise instead since it tastes similar.
    • Sriracha: Adds spiciness and flavor.
    • Sprouted tortillas or lettuce leaves: Used as a Cajun fish wrap to hold the tacos together.
    • Toppings: Fresh tomatoes, avocado slices, cilantro, and green onions add wonderful flavor and interesting texture to the Cajun fish tacos.

    See recipe card for exact quantities.

    Make it Nutrient Dense

    Staying true to the heart of what Prepare and Nourish is all about, there are ways to ensure you get the maximum nutrition in this fish taco recipe. Even though it's an incredibly simple recipe, you can take purposeful steps to turn this into a nutrient-dense meal.

    Source wild fish. I mostly get our wild seafood at Costco and they have wild cod regularly - both the large fillets and the smaller individual serving-size in the freezer section.

    Homemade creamy sauce. Use homemade mayonnaise as the base for the creamy cabbage slaw.

    Use sprouted tortillas. We love the Ezekiel flourless tortillas made with whole sprouted grains. They also have sprouted corn tortillas that are equally delicious.

    Make it grain free. To convert this fish tacos recipe into paleo fish tacos - use large lettuce leaves instead of tortillas. Butter lettuce leaves are an excellent option as they are hardy to hold all the fish taco contents. Because the rest of the ingredients are naturally sugar-free and grain-free, using a lettuce leaf makes these Whole30 fish tacos.

    Top with ferment. Consider topping with fermented jalapenos or ginger garlic kraut for a tangy finishing touch.

    cajun fish tacos with creamy sauce to the side on white platter.

    Helpful Tips

    Time-saving tip - Make a double batch of the blackened seasoning mix and have some on hand to save time.

    Money-saving time - Use frozen fish instead of fresh as it's often more affordable, and you can stock up and always have some on hand for quick and easy meals.

    Make-ahead tip - Prep everything ahead of time and keep everything in the fridge until ready to assemble.

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    The complete printable recipe is below in the recipe card for your convenience.

    The recipe for blackened cod tacos is very straightforward and comes together quickly and effortlessly.

    Step 1. Bake fish

    Pat dry the fish fillets with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Coat the fish well with Cajun seasoning on both sides and bake in a preheated oven until cooked through and the fish flakes.

    💭Pro tip: Baking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fish. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the fish reaches 145°F (63°C). Or cook fish until it flakes easily.

    Step 2. Combine slaw

    Toss the shredded cabbage with mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice in a large bowl until combined. Set aside.

    Alternatively, double this creamy sriracha mayo recipe in a small bowl and save some to drizzle on the cod fish tacos.

    Step 3. Prep toppings

    Prepare the rest of the ingredients by dicing or slicing tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, and green onions and spread them across a platter or serving board.

    Step 4. Assemble tacos

    Warm tortillas on medium heat on an open flame or cast iron skillet.

    Add coleslaw to the bottom of the tortilla, followed by flaked fish and the rest of the toppings. Drizzle with sriracha if desired, and serve.

    💭Pro tip: You can bake the fish in an air fryer at the same temperature but check on it earlier to make sure you don't overcook it. 
    Cajun cod fish tacos on white platter with avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro.

    Helpful Tools & Links

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this cod recipe. You can find some of these items cheaper at your local store, but having a link helps you know what you're looking for.

    • Tools: chef knife, cutting board, large mixing bowl, extra-large air fryer, stainless steel baking sheet,
    • Ingredients: real salt, black pepper, olive oil, avocado oil spray, garlic powder, dried parsley, good mayonnaise,
    • Storage Supplies: glass snap containers

    Serving Suggestions

    We love serving this cajun fish tacos recipe as a complete meal. This delicious recipe already features healthy protein, fats, and carbs and is loaded with vegetables.

    But you can add simple roasted vegetables like cajun sweet potato fries or air fryer zucchini.

    You can also top these cajun fish tacos with your favorite taco Tuesday classic like pico de Gallo or roasted jalapenos. If you want to bulk it up, consider making a pot of Instant Pot white rice cooked in bone broth.

    Cajun Fish Tacos pairing suggestions
    • Chunky Guacamole is full of delicious flavors and textures. It's naturally gluten free and is a great dip for Paleo, GAPS or Whole30. Or enjoy with super easy homemade baked tortilla chips.
      The Best Guacamole Recipe - Authentic & Chunky! (Paleo, Whole30, GAPS, Keto)
      Cook Time20 Minutes
    • Blender salsa in a weck jar with wooden spoon
      Blender Salsa (5 minutes!)
      Cook Time5 Minutes
    • tortilla chips with salt flakes and guacamole to the left.
      Homemade Tortilla Chips - Easy Oven Baked Recipe
      Cook Time19 Minutes
    • fermented jalapeno slices in mason jar | how to lacto-ferment jalapeno peppers
      How to Make Lacto-Fermented Jalapeño Peppers
      Cook Time20 Minutes

    Storage and Reheating Instructions

    To store: Baked blackened cod fillet can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It's best to keep the fish separate from the other ingredients.

    Storage containers: These glass snap containers are perfect for leftovers.

    To reheat: Reheat in an air fryer for a few minutes or over medium heat on the stovetop in a small skillet.

    Cajun  blackened fish tacos on white platter with toppings on the side.

    FAQs

    Can I use a different type of fish for these tacos?

    Yes, you can use any white fish that is firm enough to hold up to the cooking method. Mahi mahi, halibut, and snapper are all great alternatives.

    How I can make fish tacos grain-free?

    You can use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas to make these tacos paleo, GAPS, and Whole30. Another option is grain-free tortillas made with almond or coconut flour. Just read the ingredient labels and choose those low in carbs and free of grains and gluten. Siete is a great choice.

    Can I make these cod fish tacos ahead of time?

    Yes, you can make these cajun tacos ahead of time. However, it's best to prepare the fish and the toppings separately and assemble them before serving to prevent the tacos from becoming soggy. You can also store any leftover fish and toppings separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

    Looking for more seafood recipes? Here are some ideas:
    • close up of baked mayo salmon
      Baked Salmon with Mayonnaise
    • tuna noodle casserole on white plate.
      Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe (no canned soup!)
    • Fish en Papillote with Vegetables -Fish en Papillote is an elegant yet simple dish in which fish and veggies are wrapped in parchment paper and cooked together until delicious perfection. Naturally Paleo, Keto and Whole30. #whole30 #healthyseafood
      Fish en Papillote with Vegetables (Paleo, Keto, Whole30)
    • Salmon poke in a white bowl on a bed of white rice with avocado, cilantro and green onions topped.
      Salmon Poke Bowl (Paleo, Whole30, Low Carb)
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ recipe rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    Cajun Fish Tacos

    Anya @ Prepare & Nourish
    5 from 2 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save RecipeSaved!
    Prep Time 20 minutes mins
    Cook Time 20 minutes mins
    Total Time 40 minutes mins
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine American
    Servings 6
    Calories 396 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    Cajun Seasoning

    • 1 ½ teaspoon unrefined salt
    • 1 ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
    • ½ teaspoon turmeric
    • ½ teaspoon oregano leaf
    • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin

    Slaw

    • 5 cups shredded cabbage
    • ½ cup mayonnaise
    • 1 tablespoon sriracha
    • 1 tablespoon lime juice

    Fish Tacos

    • 3 lbs cod fish
    • 1 cup diced tomatoes
    • 1 avocado
    • ½ cup chopped cilantro
    • ½ cup cut green onions
    • 6 sprouted tortillas (8")
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Instructions
     

    • Prep: Preheat oven to 425℉. Combine all ingredients for the Cajun seasoning.
    • Bake fish: Pat dry the fish with paper towels. Coat the fish well with the Cajun seasoning and bake for 15 minutes until cooked through and the fish flakes easily.
    • Combine slaw: In a large bowl, toss shredded cabbage with mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice.
    • Prep toppings: Prep all the toppings, such as diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, cilantro, and green onions. Set aside.
    • Flake fish: When fish has cooked through, remove from oven and flake with two forks. Transfer to a serving dish.
    • Assemble tacos: Heat tortillas on medium heat on an open flame or in a cast iron skillet. Add coleslaw to the bottom of the tortilla, followed by flaked fish, cilantro, green onions, avocado, and tomatoes. Drizzle with sriracha if desired, and serve.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 396kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 43g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 105mg | Sodium: 899mg | Potassium: 1333mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 643IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 91mg | Iron: 2mg
    Nutrition Information
    The information shown is an estimate provided for your convenience by an online calculator. It should not be considered as a substitute for a professional nutritionist's advice. See our complete Nutritional Information Disclaimer.
    ©Prepare and Nourish • Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is encouraged and appreciated but please do NOT screenshot or copy/paste complete recipes to websites or social media.
    DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?Leave a comment below and share a photo on Instagram. Mention @prepareandnourish and be sure to tag #prepareandnourish!

    More Seafood Recipes

    • tuna noodle casserole with mushrooms and peas in white casserole dish.
      How to Reheat Tuna Noodle Casserole for Best Results
    • tuna casserole with green peas in white baking dish.
      How Long Does Tuna Casserole Last in the Fridge?
    • Everything Bagel Cucumber Bites with Smoked Salmon (Low Carb, GAPS, Primal) - Healthy smoked salmon on top of cream cheese topped cucumber slices and finished off with Everything Bagel Seasoning. A delicious, super easy, 15 minute, low-carb appetizer. #lowcarb #appetizers #smokedsalmon
      Everything Bagel Cucumber Bites with Smoked Salmon (Low Carb, GAPS, Primal)
    • Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Salmon, Asparagus & Potatoes Sheet Pan - A complete meal on one pan - full of flavor and easy to put together. Can be customizable to fit your dietary needs for Whole30, Paleo, or Low Carb. #sheetpan #onepan #salmon
      Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Salmon, Asparagus and Potatoes
    • Facebook
    • Email

    About Anya

    Sharing wholesome recipes using seasonal ingredients and simplified methods since 2014. My hope is you'll feel right at home in this online kitchen, where you'll find real food recipes for real families.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      Leave a Reply Cancel reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      Recipe Rating




    1. Tracy Snyder says

      December 26, 2015 at 5:06 pm

      I'm sending this recipe to my husband to see if he's ready to give it a try, he loves tacos so I can guess his answer. THank you for linking up your recipe to Welcome HOme Wednesdays!

      Reply
      • Anya says

        December 26, 2015 at 5:07 pm

        We love our Taco Nights! 🙂

        Reply
    2. Jennifer says

      December 30, 2015 at 5:42 pm

      Yum! Thanks for sharing at My Flagstaff Home!

      Jennifer

      Reply
    3. Marie says

      January 04, 2016 at 6:07 am

      Our family seriously cannot get enough tacos! Can't wait to have another taco night! Thanks for sharing at Merry Monday. 🙂

      Reply
      • Anya says

        January 04, 2016 at 8:47 am

        Same here, Marie. It's a fun twist to a traditional "taco night"

        Reply
    4. Miz Helen says

      January 04, 2016 at 8:16 am

      Congratulations!
      Your recipe is featured on Full Plate Thursday this week! Enjoy your new Red Plate and have a very special New Year!
      Miz Helen

      Reply
      • Anya says

        January 04, 2016 at 8:46 am

        Thanks Miz Helen for the feature. Happy New Year to you as well. 🙂

        Reply
    5. Lisa B. says

      January 06, 2016 at 7:09 am

      Good Morning Anya! Just stopping by to let you know that your post was selected as one of our Featured posts for the Welcome Home Wednesdays Link Party! Stop by to see your post linked up and don't forget to grab your Featured Button as well!! ~Lisa~

      Reply
    6. Joy @ Joy Love Food says

      January 08, 2016 at 4:58 pm

      I'm a big fan of fish tacos and Cajun seasonings, so these are my kind of tacos, they sound amazing, pinning and tweeting! Thanks for sharing at What'd You Do This Weekend?!

      Reply
    7. JES says

      January 09, 2016 at 1:04 pm

      Anya, these look amazing! Thank you for sharing your recipes on the Art of Home-Making Mondays!

      ~ JES @ Strangers & Pilgrims on Earth

      Reply
    8. JES says

      January 11, 2016 at 4:14 am

      Anya, just a little note to let you know we have *featured* this post today at the Art of Home-Making Mondays. They look delicious and something my family would enjoy!

      Reply
      • Anya says

        January 11, 2016 at 7:49 am

        Thanks Jes. I'm honored to have my recipe featured. 🙂

        Reply
    9. Toni says

      January 11, 2016 at 6:42 am

      I've never had a fish taco and never want to until I saw these featured at The Art of Home-Making Mondays. They look delicious! Thank you for sharing your recipe. 🙂

      Reply
      • Anya says

        January 11, 2016 at 7:50 am

        Thanks Toni. I never liked fish tacos - even the name to me seemed ironic - I always envisioned tacos to be steak or chicken with lots of Mexican flavors, but these are a great option to change things up. 🙂

        Reply
    10. The Food Hunter says

      June 14, 2016 at 8:41 am

      It sounds like a wonderful combination...easy dinner idea

      Reply
    11. Emily @ Recipes to Nourish says

      June 14, 2016 at 1:12 pm

      These sound delicious! 3 of out 4 of us love fish tacos in my home. These would be a huge hit!

      Reply
    12. linda spiker says

      June 14, 2016 at 1:15 pm

      Mmmmm! Fish tacos are a favorite of mine. Love your version!

      Reply
    13. Megan Stevens says

      June 14, 2016 at 2:48 pm

      What a beautiful and inviting feast!

      Reply
    14. Rebecca says

      June 15, 2016 at 11:37 am

      Love cajun spices! YUM!

      Reply

    Primary Sidebar

    Anya at a farm

    Hello and welcome

    I'm Anya and it is my joy to share wholesome recipes using seasonal ingredients and simplified methods. My hope is you'll feel right at home in this online kitchen, where you'll find real food recipes for real families.

    More about me →

    Your Healthy Holiday Menu

    • collage of 4 holiday recipes with text overlay

    Best Winter Recipes

    • pumpkin bars stacked on top
      Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bars Recipe
    • turkey chili with avocado and cilantro in white bowl and with blue napkin on side.
      Paleo Pumpkin Turkey Chili
    • Creamy chicken wild rice soup in white bowl with crusty bread.
      Creamy Instant Pot Chicken Wild Rice Soup
    • fall fruit salad in white bowl and serving spoon.
      Fall Fruit Salad with Yogurt Dressing
    • stuffed apple half with ice cream and caramel drizzle.
      Healthy Stuffed Baked Apples
    • borscht in a white bowl with dollop of sour cream.
      Borscht Recipe - Easy 40-minute Russian Beet Soup

    Trending Now

    • tortilla chips with salt flakes and guacamole to the left.
      Homemade Tortilla Chips - Easy Oven Baked Recipe
    • stuffed mushrooms on a white plate with green parsley to the side.
      Easy Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
    • roasted buckwheat kasha in glass container.
      How to Roast Buckwheat in Oven
    • close up of baked mayo salmon
      Baked Salmon with Mayonnaise
    • two clear mugs with honey citrus mint tea and lemon slices, lemon wedges, and fresh mint as garnish.
      Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe (Honey Citrus Mint Tea)
    • chopped fresh dill with knife to the side.
      How to Chop Fresh Dill (maximize cut herb in cooking)

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    Never miss a new post!

    ... Subscribe

    About

    About Me

    Privacy Policy

    Contact

    Shop

    Recipes

    Recipe Index

    Dinner Recipes

    Fermentation Recipes

    Healthy Basics

    Connect

    Instagram

    Facebook

    Pinterest

    Youtube

    Copyright © 2023 Prepare + Nourish

    • Pinterest
    • Facebook