Description
Crispy Air Fryer Tilapia is a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner option. The fish gets perfectly crunchy on the outside while staying moist and flaky inside, all without the mess and oil of traditional frying. Ready in under 15 minutes, this recipe uses simple ingredients and is easy to customize.
Ingredients
4 medium tilapia fillets
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or spicy)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Olive oil spray (for greasing)
1 large egg (beaten)
Instructions
- Pat tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper
- In a shallow bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, paprika, and garlic powder. In another bowl, beat the egg
- Dip each fillet into the egg, then coat with the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere
- Preheat air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil
- Place fillets in a single layer in the basket (work in batches if needed). Spray tops with olive oil
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and firm. Serve immediately
Notes
Do not skip drying the fish—moisture prevents crispiness.
Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches for best results.
Spraying oil on the breaded fillets helps create a golden crust.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in air fryer at 180°C for 3 minutes to restore crunch.
For a gluten-free version, use rice flour or cornstarch instead of panko. For a vegan option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American