Easy Blackened Fish + Creamy Avocado Coconut Crema – Air Fryer or Oven

When the weather is hot—or life is just busy—I want meals that check all the boxes: quick, nutritious, packed with protein, and loaded with flavor. This Air Fryer Blackened Fish with Avocado Coconut Crema does exactly that. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home, and the air fryer means dinner is on the table fast without turning your kitchen into a sauna.

Why You’ll Love This Fish Recipe

One of my favorite things about this white fish recipe is how effortlessly it fits into an active lifestyle. The fish cooks in just minutes in the air fryer (I love this oven-style air-fryer), developing a lightly crisp, flavorful blackened crust while staying tender and flaky inside. It’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated—or boring.

Even better, the air fryer keeps cleanup simple and eliminates the need to heat up the entire kitchen, making this an ideal meal during warmer months. But, you CAN also prepare in a traditional oven, all the details are in the recipe below.

A High-Protein Meal That Works Hard for You

Protein is one of the most important nutrients for maintaining muscle, supporting recovery after workouts, and helping you stay satisfied between meals. Whether you’re training for a race, lifting weights, or simply trying to eat a little healthier, this meal delivers quality protein in a delicious way. White fish is a solid lean protein choice and this recipe works well with cod, pollock, halibut or tilapia – use what you like!

The addition of chickpeas boosts both the protein and fiber, creating a balanced meal that provides lasting energy and helps keep you feeling full longer. Canned chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans) keep this a quick and easy recipe. Simply drain and rinse them off — also picking off any skins that come loose.

Creamy Without the Dairy

The avocado coconut crema may be my favorite part of this dish. Instead of relying on heavy cream or sour cream, it gets its silky texture from ripe avocado and rich coconut cream from a can. Fresh cilantro and lime juice brighten everything up, creating a sauce that’s creamy, fresh, and packed with flavor. It’s a great option for anyone who avoids dairy or simply wants a lighter, dairy-free alternative that doesn’t sacrifice richness.

Choosing the Best Fish for Blackened Fish

I used wild Alaskan pollock for this recipe, a neutral, flaky white fish with a firm texture that holds up beautifully in the air fryer. Pollock has a delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with bold blackened seasoning and the creamy avocado coconut crema without overpowering the dish. It’s also a budget-friendly, sustainable seafood option that’s easy to find.

That said, this recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to use your favorite firm white fish. Cod is another great choice with large, tender flakes, while halibut offers a thicker, meatier texture and a slightly richer flavor. Tilapia works well too for a mild, affordable option that cooks quickly. Other options like haddock, mahi mahi, or even grouper can also work depending on availability. The key is choosing a fish that you enjoy and adjusting the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

Endless Ways to Serve This Blackened Fish

This recipe is incredibly versatile, making it easy to customize based on your goals or whatever you have in the kitchen. Some of my favorite serving ideas include:

  • Zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a lighter, veggie-packed meal
  • Steamed rice or brown rice for a heartier dinner
  • Cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option
  • Quinoa for extra protein and fiber
  • Pasta when you’re craving comfort food
  • Mixed greens for a satisfying salad bowl
  • Warm tortillas for flavorful fish tacos
  • Grain bowls loaded with roasted vegetables

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

If you’re looking for a meal that’s fast enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, this recipe delivers. The bold blackened seasoning, flaky fish, hearty chickpeas, and creamy dairy-free sauce create a combination that feels elevated without requiring much effort. It’s the kind of healthy dinner you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again—especially when you want maximum flavor with minimal time in the kitchen.

Blacked Fish & Chickpeas with Avocado Coconut Crema
Prep Time
8 mins
Cook Time
12 mins
Total Time
20 mins
 
Healthy doesn’t have to be boring! This Air Fryer Blackened Fish with creamy avocado coconut sauce is ready in minutes, naturally dairy-free, protein-packed, and perfect for fueling an active lifestyle
Course: dinner, southwestern
Cuisine: dairyfree
Keyword: avocado, dairy-free, fish, seafood
Servings: 3 servings
Calories: 352 kcal
Ingredients
For Avocado Coconut Crema:
  • 1 medium avocado about 6-7 ounces – pitted, peeled and coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut cream or can sub full-fat coconut milk from can
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro stems removed
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
For Fish:
  • 12 oz firm white fish like Pollock Cod, Halibut, even Tilapia
  • 15 oz can chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven-style air fryer to 380F or regular oven to 400F
  2. Combine all ingredients for crema in blender; process until smooth. If too thick, add just a bit more coconut milk/cream. Set aside.
  3. In small bowl, mix together the blackening spices: chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder and salt. Set aside.
  4. Pat fish filets dry with paper towel and lightly brush with some of the oil. Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon blackening spices (give or take, enough to rub into top and bottom of fish filets).
  5. Drizzle remaining olive oil and remaining blackening spices over chickpeas, stir until combined.
  6. Add fish and chickpeas to air fryer tray or rimmed baking sheet in single layer. Air fry for 12 minutes, flipping fish and tossing chickpeas halfway. Cook approx. 18 minutes in regular oven, flipping halfway.
  7. Serve over pasta, zoodles, roasted veggies, rice, etc along with the avocado crema.
Recipe Notes

One-Pot Creamy Ginger Chicken and Rice (Easy Weeknight Dinner)

If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup, this One-Pot Creamy Ginger Chicken and Rice delivers. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, vegetables, and a rich, creamy ginger-infused sauce all cook together in a single Dutch oven pot, creating a comforting, flavor-packed meal with very little hands-on effort.

After just a few minutes of sautéing the vegetables and searing the chicken, the oven takes over, allowing all the flavors to meld while the rice cooks to perfection. While dinner bakes, you’ll have plenty of time to tend to any last dinner details or simply enjoy a well-earned break.

I love recipes like this because everything—protein, vegetables, rice, and sauce—is cooked together, making it a complete, balanced meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. From prep to plate in about an hour, it’s an easy family dinner that’s as satisfying as it is convenient.

INGREDIENT & EQUIPMENT NOTES

  • OLIVE OIL: Olive oil or any vegetable oil for browning chicken and sautéing the veggies
  • GARLIC & GINGER: The cornerstone of flavor in this dish. I prefer to use minced garlic from a jar (to save time and smelly hands) but the ginger flavor is hands-down if your grate it from fresh.
  • VEGGIES: You can vary the variety (like shitake mushroom instead of button) or swap veggies suit your tastes. Coarse, sturdy veggies will need to be chopped and sauteed in the onion step before placing in oven.
  • RICE:  Jasmine rice is my go-to for this recipe – the cooking time and liquid amounts are tailored for this type of long-grain rice.
  • CHICKEN:  I’ve used skinless boneless chicken breast, cut in half and the thick pieces fileted for more even cooking. Boneless skinless chicken thighs can be substituted.
  • COCONUT CREAM:  Full fat coconut cream from a can (unsweetened) give the most luxurious texture and flavor. But if desired you can use regular (not light) coconut milk from a can (not carton).
  • COCONUT SUGAR: The signature hint of sweetness in the sauce comes from coconut sugar, but feel free to substitute brown cane sugar or even date sugar.
  • WHAT POT TO USE: This recipe works best in a cast-iron enamel  Dutch Oven with lid ( to 5 to 6qt). It’s big enough to hold the chicken and deep enough for the rice and cooking liquid. Plus, the cast-iron enamel of these cooking vessels are designed to hold heat, which helps the rice finish up after it’s removed from oven. If in a bind, you can use another 6-quart casserole dish or pot that is OVEN PROOF and, if no lid, cover very tightly with foil.
One-Pot Creamy Ginger Chicken and Rice
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
40 mins
rest
5 mins
 

One pan, big flavor! This One-Pot Creamy Ginger Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food dinner! Tender chicken, fluffy rice, veggies, and a creamy ginger sauce bake together in one dish for an easy family meal with minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Course: dinner
Cuisine: Asian, family, thai
Keyword: chicken, coconut, dutch oven, one pot, rice
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup coconut cream from can well blended
  • 1 medium lime zested and juiced
  • 2 Tablespoons minced garlic from jar
  • 2 tablespoons coconut sugar
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1.5 tablespoon grated fresh ginger you can use minced from jar, but the fresh grated REALLY makes the dish pop
  • 1.5 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon salt divided
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 4 oz button mushrooms sliced thin
  • 1/2 large onion sliced into thin vertical slices
  • 2 cups chicken broth or stock
  • 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice rinsed and drained
  • 2/3 cup matchstick carrots
  • 2/3 cup frozen edamame beans thawed
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 medium green onions thinly sliced
Instructions
  1. In medium bowl, whisk together coconut cream, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, coconut sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, grated ginger, and Sriracha sauce until smoot. Set sauce aside.
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry, and cut each breast into 2 portions. If needed, on the “thick” portion of breast, use sharp filet knife to cut through the middle crossways into two portions for more even cooking. Sprinkle both sides of chicken 1 teaspoon of the salt.
  3. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium high heat. Carefully add chicken in batches into the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook undisturbed until exterior is seared and lightly browning, about 3 minutes. Turn chicken and brown the other side in same manner. Transfer to a plate, and repeat the process with any remaining chicken pieces.
  4. Add onion and mushroom slices to the same Dutch oven and cook, stirring, about 3 minutes. Pour in chicken stock and stir up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add rice and remaining salt, and stir to combine.
  5. Layer in carrots and thawed, shelled edamame beans, and set par-cooked chicken breasts on top. Drizzle 3/4 cup of the ginger sauce over the chicken pieces/
  6. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350F degrees and set an oven rack in the center of the oven.
  7. Place lid on Dutch oven and transfer into the center of the preheated oven. Bake until chicken is no longer pink at the center and the juices run clear, about 25 minutes. An instant-read thermometer should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
  8. Transfer Dutch oven onto a wire rack and allow to stand, covered, until the rice is completely tender, about 5-10 minutes.
  9. Place chicken on a serving platter (or keep in pot to serve). Fluff the rice and vegetables with a fork, and stir in remaining ginger sauce and chopped cilantro. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions.

15 Easy Protein Mug Cake Ideas for a Satisfying Dessert or Snack

I really love a good mug cake—especially when it’s packed with protein.

Not only are protein mug cakes quick to make, they’re the perfect way to satisfy a sweet craving without baking an entire pan of brownies or heating up the kitchen. They’re ideal for solo snackers, couples, busy mornings, post-workout treats, or those evenings when you just want a little something sweet.

They’re even faster when you keep a batch of my Protein Mug Muffin (Cake) Mix in the pantry. Simply stir together the mix with an egg, a splash of water, and a little mashed fruit, then microwave for a couple of minutes. That’s it! You have a warm, fluffy, protein-packed treat ready before your coffee has even finished brewing.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how customizable it is. The base recipe is balanced, naturally sweetened with no added sugar, and delivers about 20 grams of protein, but changing the toppings makes it feel like a completely different dessert every time.

Grab the Protein Mug Muffin (Cake) Mix recipe HERE!   

Prep this easy Make-Ahead Protein Mug Muffin Mix once and enjoy fresh, fluffy high-protein muffins in just 2 minutes. Perfect for busy breakfasts, snacks, or healthy desserts.

Easy Protein Mug Cake Topping Ideas

Chunky Monkey: A classic flavor combo that’s always a winner. The warm peanut butter gets deliciously melty, making every bite extra satisfying. Add your favorite peanut butter, banana slices and mini chocolate chips.

Trail Mix Crunch: For when you’re craving a little sweet, salty, and crunchy. The contrast of crunchy toppings on a warm mug cake is hard to beat. Crushed pretzels, with mini chocolate chips (or candy-coated chocolate bits), and chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts.

Blueberry Lemon: Bright, fresh, and just the right amount of tangy – bakery-worthy with almost no effort. Sugar-free lemon curd with fresh blueberries and optional lemon zest.

Raspberry Truffle: Rich chocolate meets tart berries. What’s not to swoon over?! Nutella (or a low-sugar chocolate hazelnut , spread), fresh raspberries and mini chocolate chips.

Cinnamon Roll: Everything you love about a cinnamon roll—in just minutes. If you’re feeling fancy, add chopped nuts. Cream cheese icing (I love using my protein cream cheese icing recipe.) Sprinkle of cinnamon

Caramel Apple Pie: All the cozy fall vibes, any time of year. So comforting and filling. Thin apple slices, Sugar-free caramel sauce, chopped pecans, dash of cinnamon.

Strawberries & Cream: Simple, classic, and perfect for summer.  A dollop of whipped cream (or whipped topping) + sliced strawberries

More Mug Cake Topping Ideas to Try

Once you start experimenting, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few more combinations worth trying:

  • 🍑 Peach slices + vanilla Greek yogurt dollop + cinnamon
  • 🍒 Cherries + dark chocolate chips
  • 🥥 Toasted coconut + chopped macadamia nuts + whipped topping
  • 🍪 Crushed graham crackers + protein frosting
  • 🍫 Chocolate peanut butter drizzle
  • 🍎 Apple butter + cinnamon
  • 🥜 Almond butter + Jam
  • 🍍 Pineapple + toasted coconut + protein frosting
  • 🍪 Crushed protein cookie + whipped topping

Keeping a jar of Protein Mug Muffin Mix (I always have a Chocolate mix AND a Vanilla Mix on hand) in the pantry means you’re always just a few minutes away from a warm, homemade treat that actually helps you hit your protein goals. With a simple change of toppings, one recipe becomes dozens of different desserts—so you’ll never get bored.

I’d love to know your favorite combination! If you come up with a topping that’s too good not to share, leave it in the comments so everyone can give it a try.

Air Fryer Caprese Stuffed Mushrooms (Easy 15-Minute Low Carb Appetizer)

If there’s a sweet spot in my kitchen life, it’s the intersection of looks impressive and requires almost no effort. A plate full of Caprese Stuffed Mushrooms situation lives right there.

It’s the kind of appetizer that makes people think you planned ahead, prepped thoughtfully, and maybe even “tested a few versions.” In reality? You pulled a few things together, tossed them in the air fryer, and called it a win. Low carb, high flavor, and only about 31 calories per mushroom and always a hit. Also worth noting: these are dangerously snackable. You will think you made enough. You did not – lol, so just heed my warning and double the batch!

Air Fried Stuffed Mushrooms: Lazy-Genius Ingredients

These stuffed mushrooms hit that perfect balance of sweet and savory. Think Caprese salad but reimagined into a warm, cheesy, handheld bite. Gourmet without requiring any actual gourmet behavior.

Mushrooms: Use white button mushrooms or cremini. They hold their shape, roast beautifully, and don’t turn into mushy little puddles in the air fryer.

Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: Lol, genius, right?! Cutting each cheese stick into a few chunks is honestly the most “effort” this recipe demands. For a flavor twist, try sharp cheddar cheese sticks instead of the traditional mozzarella.

Grape tomatoes. A grape tomato skewered to the top of each cheese-stuffed mushroom adds a burst of sweet flavor. Use a toothpick to fasten and prevent both rolling off while roasting and also having the tomato explode with air frying (that little puncture from the toothpick releases the pressure)
Fresh basil: The herb of choice for Caprese inspired recipes. Use a sharp paring knife to chiffonade into thin, ribbon-like strips before garnishing.

Balsamic syrup:  Balsamic syrup (commonly known as balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction) is a thick, syrupy condiment made by simmering balsamic vinegar until it reduces into a concentrated, sweet, and tangy glaze. You can make yourself, but SO MUCH EASIER to by it bottled.

Why You’ll Love Mozzarella Stuffed Mushrooms Caprese Style

The pre-made balsamic syrup drizzle and cheese sticks (like the kiddos snack) on are two little hacks that can stay your secret!

  • It tastes like something you’d order at a wine bar.
  • It takes about the same amount of effort as making a grilled cheese.
  • The air fryer (my air fryer, love it) does almost all the work – but you can also use a regular oven (details in recipe below).
  • Just a handful of simple ingredients.
  • Low carb, just 31 calories each, with a couple grams of protein.
  • Fancy enough for guests, easy enough for a Tuesday.
Air fryer Caprese Stuffed Mushrooms are a low carb, 31-calorie, easy appetizer made with mozzarella, tomato, basil, and balsamic glaze in just 15 minutes.
Air Fryer Caprese Stuffed Mushrooms (Easy 15-Minute Low Carb Appetizer)
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
15 mins
 
Air fryer Caprese Stuffed Mushrooms are a low carb, 31-calorie, easy appetizer made with mozzarella, tomato, basil, and balsamic glaze in just 15 minutes.
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: Italian, low carb
Keyword: air fryer, caprese, cheese stick, finger food, mozzerella, mushroom, party food
Servings: 9 mushrooms
Calories: 31 kcal
Ingredients
  • 1 pint 8-oz. White Button or Cremini mushrooms medium to larger sized ones work best (my container had 9)
  • 2 teaspoon Italian dressing or just olive oil + ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 mozzarella cheese sticks
  • 9 Grape tomatoes or enough to match quantity of mushrooms on hand
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic syrup
Instructions
  1. Preheat air-fryer to 380°F (Or oven to 350°F).
  2. Remove the stems from the mushrooms by gently twisting them off. Discard or save for another use.
  3. Place mushroom caps on air fryer try (or baking sheet), smooth side up, and brush with Italian dressing and season with a little salt and pepper. Flip mushrooms back over so openings are face up.
  4. Slice cheese sticks into approximate 9 pieces* Place a piece of cheese inside the opening of each mushroom.
  5. Add a grape tomato to the top of cheese-stuffed mushroom, keeping in place upright with a toothpick (using the toothpick will also prevent tomato from bursting in the air-fryer)
  6. Cook in pre-heated 380F air fryer for 10 minutes (or traditional oven at 350F for 20 minutes) or until tomato is softened and roasted and cheese is gooey.
  7. Remove and drizzle with balsamic syrup and garnish with basil.
Recipe Notes

*Note: My pint of mushrooms contained 9 button mushrooms, so I used 9 tomatoes and cheese sticks cut into 9 pieces. You may need to adjust depending on your mushroom count (pints can vary based on the size).

Veggie-forward Salads & Sides for Your July 4th Summer Block Party

When it comes to summer cookouts, everyone remembers who made that amazing side dish or salad. If you want to be that guest (or host) . . I have some amazing ideas.

Whether you’re celebrating America’s 250th birthday, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, or simply gathering around the grill with friends and family, these fresh salads, veggie-forward sides, and colorful summer recipes are guaranteed to earn a spot next to the burgers, brisket, and barbecue.

From patriotic salads bursting with seasonal berries to grilled vegetables, watermelon favorites, and healthier comfort-food classics, these recipes are easy to make, travel well, and let summer produce shine.  Here are the summery sides I’ll be fixin’ up this season – bring one or bring them all!

Red, White & Blue Caprese Salad with Blueberries: Nothing says summer celebration quite like red, white, and blue. Fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, sweet blueberries, fragrant basil, and a balsamic drizzle create a patriotic side that’s almost too pretty to eat.

Everyone loves a Caprese salad with juicy tomatoes, aromatic sweet basil and creamy mozzarella cheese all drizzled in balsamic syrup. My patriotic version of the classic favorite summer salad that adds blueberries in honor of the USA and Red, White and Blue. Perfect for summer entertaining.
Perfect for: America’s 250th celebration, Fourth of July, Memorial Day, or any festive cookout.

Watermelon Raspberry Quinoa Salad with Ginger Mint Dressing: A refreshing mashup of juicy watermelon, sweet raspberries, protein-packed quinoa, and a bright ginger-mint vinaigrette. It’s light, colorful, naturally gluten-free, and hearty enough to hold up on a buffet table without getting soggy.

Hydrate and invigorate with this juicy fresh salad featuring watermelon, raspberries and quinoa! The zingy ginger mint dressing is amazing. It’s a stunningly colorful side dish or add shrimp or salmon for a main dish.
Perfect for: BBQs, pool parties, patriotic celebrations, and healthy meal prep.

No-Crust Tomato Pie: Peak summer tomatoes deserve their moment. This lower-carb, gluten-free tomato pie skips the traditional crust while delivering all the cheesy, savory goodness that makes tomato pie a Southern favorite.

Perfect for: Garden harvests, brunch spreads, or serving alongside grilled meats.

Jalapeño Feta Cornbread:  A warm skillet of homemade cornbread always disappears first. This version gets a flavor upgrade with sweet corn, tangy feta, and just enough jalapeño heat to keep everyone coming back for another slice.

A yummy addition to BBQ or an summery entree salad.

Grilled Corn in the Husk with Creamy Ancho Vinaigrette: Grilling corn right in the husk creates juicy, smoky kernels every time. After grilling, drizzle each ear with my creamy ancho vinaigrette for a restaurant-worthy side that’s incredibly simple.

Grilled Corn with Ancho Vinaigrette is a southwestern inspired side dish for your next bbq or summer celebration.
First, learn how to grill corn in the husk, then finish it with the creamy ancho dressing.

Grilled Avocado Boats with Blistered Tomatoes: If you’ve never grilled an avocado, you’re in for a treat. Warm, creamy avocado halves pair beautifully with smoky blistered tomatoes for a side that’s unexpectedly elegant yet incredibly easy.

Grilled Avocado Boats
Perfect for: Steak night, grilled chicken, seafood, or vegetarian cookouts.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetable Salad: Fire up the grill for more than just meat. Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, asparagus, and other seasonal vegetables caramelize beautifully before being tossed in a tangy balsamic dressing. It’s colorful, healthy, and makes excellent leftovers.

Platter of Grilled Vegetables
Make a double batch, these go fast!

Four Ways to Season Watermelon That Will Blow Your Mind: Sure, watermelon is delicious on its own—but these simple seasoning ideas take it to another level. Sweet, spicy, savory, and tangy combinations transform this classic summer fruit into an unforgettable party snack. 

Watermelon seasoned four different ways
Kick up the flavor party with these easy, sprinkle-on ideas.

Fiesta Five Veggie Potato Salad: This isn’t your average mayo-heavy potato salad. Loaded with five colorful vegetables and a lighter dressing, it’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor while still delivering the comfort everyone expects from a classic picnic side.

Fiesta Five Veggie Potato Salad a yummy, southwestern inspired side dish.
Perfect for: Potlucks, family reunions, cookouts, and meal prep.
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