Santa Fe Tilapia from O'Charley's features tender, seasoned tilapia fillets topped with a zesty blend of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese, served atop a bed of fluffy rice and garnished with fresh cilantro for a vibrant, Southwestern-inspired meal.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil (optional)
- Saucepan (for rice)
- Wooden spoon
- Cheese grater
- Serving plate or platter
Ingredients
- 2 tilapia fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 cup canned black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup canned corn (drained)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water (or chicken broth for rice)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
When preparing your Santa Fe Tilapia, ensure the tilapia fillets are fresh and evenly seasoned with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper for authentic Southwestern flavors. Use canned black beans and corn that are thoroughly rinsed and drained to prevent excess moisture from altering the dish's texture. To achieve fluffy rice, cook it using chicken broth instead of water for richer taste that complements the seasoned fish. Fresh cilantro should be chopped just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and fresh aroma. This Santa Fe Tilapia from O'Charley's copycat recipe perfectly replicates the zesty, hearty meal featuring tender seasoned fish topped with a blend of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and melted Monterey Jack cheese.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook rice: In a saucepan, bring 2 cups water (or broth) to boil, add 1 cup rice, cover, and simmer until tender.
- Rinse and pat dry tilapia fillets.
- In a bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub seasoning mix on both sides of the tilapia fillets.
- Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat.
- Sear tilapia fillets for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer tilapia to a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes.
- Spoon black bean-corn-tomato mixture evenly over fillets.
- Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese over fillets.
- Bake in oven for 8-10 minutes until fish flakes easily and cheese is melted.
- Fluff cooked rice with a fork and plate as a bed for serving.
- Place baked tilapia with topping over rice.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Santa Fe Tilapia from O'Charley's copycat menu features seasoned tilapia fillets topped with a flavorful mix of black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and melted cheese. If fresh cilantro is unavailable, dried cilantro or fresh parsley can serve as a suitable garnish without compromising taste. When chicken broth is not an option, using vegetable broth or water with added bouillon cubes enhances the rice's flavor profile. You can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with mozzarella or a mild cheddar to maintain a creamy texture. For a spicier kick, increase the chili powder slightly or add a pinch of cayenne pepper during seasoning.
Tips
Make sure to pat the tilapia fillets dry before seasoning to help the spices adhere evenly and create a flavorful crust during searing. When cooking the rice, use broth instead of water for enhanced taste and avoid lifting the lid while simmering to prevent steam loss. Sear the fish over medium heat just until golden on each side; overcooking can cause the fillets to dry out before baking. After baking, serve the tilapia immediately to enjoy the melted cheese and tender fish at their best texture and temperature.
Nutritions
Santa Fe Tilapia offers a balanced source of lean protein from the tilapia fillets, which are low in calories and rich in omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health. The addition of black beans and corn provides dietary fiber and essential minerals like magnesium and potassium, contributing to digestive health and electrolyte balance. This dish also contains vitamin C and antioxidants from diced tomatoes and cilantro, enhancing immune function and reducing inflammation. Your meal combines nutrient-dense ingredients that fuel your body while delivering bold Southwestern flavors.
Storage
Store leftover Santa Fe Tilapia in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Keep the tilapia fillets separate from the rice if possible to avoid sogginess, and consume within 3 days for optimal flavor and safety. When reheating, use a microwave or oven until the internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC) to ensure your meal is properly heated.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap tilapia for catfish or cod if preferred, which also absorb Southwestern spices well. Instead of baking, try grilling the fillets after searing to add a smoky char flavor. For a creamy twist, mix some sour cream or Greek yogurt into the black bean and corn topping before spreading it on the fish. Using brown rice or quinoa as the base provides a nuttier texture and increased fiber content.
Allergies
Santa Fe Tilapia contains common allergens such as fish (tilapia) and dairy (Monterey Jack cheese), which may trigger reactions in individuals with seafood or milk allergies. The dish also includes spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika that could cause sensitivities in some people. You should inform your server if you have any known food allergies to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
The Santa Fe Tilapia at O'Charley's is loved for its vibrant combination of bold Southwestern spices, fresh tilapia fillets, and a zesty chipotle crema that delivers a perfect balance of flavor and heat. The dish features a generous portion of tender fish, topped with peppers and onions, offering a wholesome and satisfying meal. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the spice levels and enjoy restaurant-quality taste in your own kitchen. This recipe is worth trying for those who crave a flavorful, healthy seafood option with a unique regional twist.