Combine paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, dried oregano, dried thyme, celery seed, and salt together in a small bowl. Set aside.
Gently dab tilapia with a paper towel to remove some of the moisture.
Cover generously with your spice rub, making sure to press it in with your finger tips.
Gently shake off any extra rub and set aside. You can let the rubbed fish rest at room temperature for up to 20 minutes.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes
Once hot, add in a tablespoon of oil, turn to coat the pan, and immediately add in 2 of the tilapia filets.
Cook on one side for about 2-3 minutes.
Flip, add in another half tablespoon of oil, and cook for another 2 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
The tilapia will be opaque and can be flaked with a fork. The outside will be VERY dark.
Remove tilapia from the pan, squeeze lemon juice generously over cooked fillets.
Repeat with remaining tilapia and serve!
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