Best 6 Amberjack Fish Grilled Recipe Secrets for Beginners

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled piece of fish that’s juicy on the inside with gorgeous grill marks and a hint of smoky flavor on the outside. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this amberjack fish grilled recipe! As someone who used to be terrified of grilling seafood, I’m here to tell you that amberjack is actually one of the most forgiving fish for beginners to grill. Its firm, meaty texture holds up beautifully on the grill without falling apart (unlike that flounder disaster I had at my first summer BBQ!).

What makes this recipe truly special is how it transforms a humble fish into a restaurant-quality meal in just about 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something impressive but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. My family begs for this dish at least once a week now, and my kids who normally wrinkle their noses at seafood clean their plates every time!

If you enjoyed our popular Cedar Plank Salmon recipe last month, you’re going to absolutely love this amberjack version. The technique is similar, but the unique flavor of amberjack brings a whole new dimension to your grilling game. Ready to become the seafood grilling hero of your household? Let’s dive right in!

What is amberjack fish grilled recipe?

Ever wondered what makes an amberjack fish grilled recipe so special that food bloggers can’t stop talking about it? Well, imagine the “steak of the sea” getting the perfect kiss from open flames! Amberjack, this firm, meaty fish, transforms into something magical when it meets a hot grill. The recipe isn’t just instructions—it’s your ticket to seafood paradise! I remember my grandfather always saying he could tell a skilled cook just by how they grilled amberjack. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but I’d argue that a perfectly grilled amberjack is actually the express lane! Why not try this recipe tonight and see if your dinner guests start proposing marriage after the first bite?

Why You’ll Love This amberjack fish grilled recipe:

This amberjack fish grilled recipe is about to become your new favorite for so many reasons! First and foremost, the star of the show is the amberjack itself – a firm, meaty fish that doesn’t fall apart on the grill like other delicate varieties. It has a mild, buttery flavor that takes on seasonings beautifully while still letting the natural taste of the fish shine through. Each bite delivers that perfect combination of smoky exterior and juicy interior that makes grilled food so irresistible.

Making this at home will save you a small fortune compared to ordering seafood at restaurants. Amberjack is often more affordable than other premium fish like halibut or sea bass, yet delivers an equally impressive meal. A restaurant might charge $25-30 for a similar dish, but you can make this recipe for your whole family for about the same price!

The simple lemon-herb marinade in this recipe elevates the fish with bright, fresh flavors that complement rather than overwhelm. The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and citrus creates a Mediterranean-inspired profile that makes your taste buds dance. If you’ve tried our Greek-style grilled vegetables before, you’ll recognize the similar flavor profile that works so beautifully with seafood.

Why not transform your ordinary dinner into a coastal getaway experience right in your own backyard? Give this amberjack recipe a try tonight!

How to Make amberjack fish grilled recipe:

Quick Overview

This amberjack fish grilled recipe takes the intimidation out of seafood cooking with a straightforward approach that delivers big flavor. The magic happens when the fish’s natural oils meet the hot grill, creating a gorgeous caramelization that seals in moisture. What sets this recipe apart is the simple but effective marinade that infuses the fish with bright citrus notes and aromatic herbs. From start to finish, you’ll only need about 30 minutes – just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time. This makes it perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend entertaining when you want something impressive without hours of work.

Key Ingredients for amberjack fish grilled recipe:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Amberjack fillets	2 pounds (about 4 fillets)	Fresh or thawed from frozen
Olive oil	1/4 cup	Extra virgin preferred for better flavor
Lemon	2 medium	One juiced, one sliced for serving
Garlic cloves	4	Minced or pressed
Fresh herbs	3 tablespoons	Mix of parsley, thyme, and dill, chopped
Paprika	1 tablespoon	Sweet or smoked, depending on preference
Sea salt	1 teaspoon	Kosher salt works too
Black pepper	1/2 teaspoon	Freshly ground
Butter	2 tablespoons	For basting while grilling
Lemon pepper seasoning	1 teaspoon	Optional, for extra zest
Crushed red pepper flakes	1/4 teaspoon	Optional, for heat

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Prepare the fish: Remove the amberjack fillets from the refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking to bring them closer to room temperature. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This important step ensures better searing and prevents the fish from sticking to the grill.
• Make the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, juice from one lemon, minced garlic, chopped herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended. If using the optional lemon pepper seasoning and red pepper flakes, add them now.
• Marinate the fish: Place the amberjack fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Gently turn the fillets to coat evenly on all sides. Allow the fish to marinate for 10-15 minutes, but no longer as the acid in the lemon juice can start “cooking” the fish.
• Preheat the grill: While the fish is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Clean the grates thoroughly and oil them well using a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil and held with tongs. This prevents sticking, which is crucial for successful fish grilling.
• Prepare for grilling: Melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave and set aside for basting. Cut the second lemon into thin slices.
• Grill the amberjack: Place the fillets on the preheated grill at a 45-degree angle to the grates. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them. This allows those beautiful grill marks to form and helps the fish release naturally from the grates.

• Flip and finish: Using a wide, thin spatula, carefully flip the fillets. Brush the tops with melted butter and place a lemon slice on each fillet. Grill for another 3-4 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
• Rest and serve: Transfer the grilled amberjack to a serving platter and let rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish for maximum moisture. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon slices before serving.

What to Serve amberjack fish grilled recipe With:

This amberjack fish grilled recipe pairs beautifully with so many sides to create a complete and satisfying meal. For a light summer dinner, serve it alongside a crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. The bright, tangy flavors complement the fish perfectly.

For a more substantial meal, grilled vegetables make an excellent accompaniment – try asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then grilled alongside your fish. A side of lemon herb rice pilaf or roasted garlic mashed potatoes works wonderfully to soak up the flavorful juices from the fish.

For beverages, a chilled Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc makes an excellent pairing, while a light lager or wheat beer works well for beer lovers. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a splash of lemon and a sprig of mint is refreshingly perfect.

Top Tips for Perfecting amberjack fish grilled recipe:

Secret #1: The 15-Minute Room Temperature Rule
Always let your amberjack fillets sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. Cold fish straight from the refrigerator will cook unevenly, with the outside potentially overcooking before the center is done. This simple step ensures even cooking throughout the fillet.

Secret #2: The Paper Towel Patting Technique
Pat your fish thoroughly dry with paper towels before applying any seasonings or marinade. Excess moisture creates steam, preventing those beautiful grill marks and caramelization that give grilled fish its distinctive flavor. A dry surface = better searing = more flavor.

Secret #3: The “No Peek” Rule
Resist the urge to frequently lift or move the fish once it’s on the grill. Amberjack needs about 4-5 minutes of uninterrupted cooking on each side to develop a nice crust that will naturally release from the grates. Constantly checking or moving the fish is the fastest way to have it fall apart.

Secret #4: The 10-20-30 Oil Application Method
Oil everything in this sequence: first the fish (10 minutes before grilling), then the grill grates (20 seconds before grilling), and finally a light brush of oil on your spatula (30 seconds before flipping). This triple-oil approach creates multiple non-stick barriers.

Secret #5: The Butter Basting Boost
Brush melted butter on the fish during the last minute of grilling. This not only adds richness but also creates a beautiful golden finish. For an extra flavor boost, infuse your butter with minced garlic and herbs before basting.

Secret #6: The 145°F Foolproof Test
For perfectly cooked amberjack every time, use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the fillet. Remove the fish from the grill when it reaches 140°F and let it rest for a few minutes – the internal temperature will continue rising to the ideal 145°F.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Grilled amberjack is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored properly for another delicious meal. Allow the fish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your grilled amberjack will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Any longer and the delicate texture and flavor will begin to deteriorate.

For the best results when reheating, avoid the microwave which can make the fish rubbery. Instead, preheat your oven to 275°F, place the fish on a baking sheet, add a tablespoon of water or white wine to the bottom of the pan, and cover tightly with foil. Warm it gently for about 10-15 minutes until just heated through. This low-and-slow method helps preserve moisture.

If you want to prepare ahead for a future meal, you can freeze grilled amberjack. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or zipper bag with all air removed. Frozen grilled amberjack will maintain good quality for about one month. To thaw, transfer from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight before reheating using the gentle oven method described above.

For a creative way to use leftovers, consider flaking the cold fish and making a delicious amberjack salad with Greek yogurt, diced celery, lemon juice, and fresh herbs – it makes an excellent sandwich filling or topping for a green salad!

Product Name	Link	Description
Weber Spirit II E-310 Gas Grill	Weber Spirit II E-310	This gas grill is perfect for grilling Amberjack fish. It features three burners for precise heat control, ensuring even cooking without drying out the fish. Large cooking space and easy to clean.
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Grill Pan	Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan	Ideal for indoor grilling, this cast iron grill pan gives beautiful grill marks on the fish. Pre-seasoned and highly durable, it’s perfect for grilling Amberjack easily.
McCormick Grill Mates Salmon & Seafood Seasoning	McCormick Grill Mates Seasoning	This seafood seasoning blend is perfect for marinating Amberjack before grilling. It contains a mix of herbs and spices like dill, garlic, and onion, giving the fish a rich and delicious flavor. Quick and easy to use.