Easy Air Fryer Tilapia Recipes

Crispy Air Fryer Tilapia (Breaded or Not!)

Air Fryer Tilapia

Quick, Light, and Crispy Fish in Just 10 Minutes

Introduction

When you’re in a pinch and need something quick, healthy, and satisfying, this air fryer tilapia recipe has got your back. It’s one of my go-to meals, ready in just 10 minutes, and perfect when you're looking for a fast dinner without compromising on flavor or quality. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s the ideal dish for busy nights, lazy weekends, or whenever you’re craving something light yet flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Tilapia Recipe

Light and flaky – The tilapia fillets cook to perfection, crisp on the edges and tender inside.
No breading needed – Skip the heavy breading and keep it simple with fresh, vibrant seasoning.
Fast and easy – This dish is ready in 10 minutes, and it’s made with pantry staples you probably already have.
Budget-friendly – A quick, healthy, and affordable meal for any night of the week.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Tilapia

Tilapia fillets – Fresh or frozen works. Just make sure to thaw frozen fillets before cooking.
Olive oil – Helps to lock in moisture while giving the fish great flavor.
Seasonings – Garlic powder, paprika, and lemon pepper are all you need.
Lemon wedges – For a bright, fresh finish.
Parsley – Optional, for garnish and a pop of color.

How To Cook Tilapia In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease the basket with olive oil or cooking spray.

Step 2: Season the Tilapia
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and lemon pepper seasoning. Brush the seasoning mix on both sides of each tilapia filet.

Step 3: Air Fry the Fish
Place the seasoned fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the fish is golden and flakes easily with a fork. No need to flip the fillets halfway!

Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle with parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.

My Recipe Tips for Perfect Tilapia

Size Matters: Choose fillets that are similar in size so they cook evenly.
Use a Meat Thermometer: For the most accurate results, cook to an internal temperature of 140°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, check that the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Avoid Overcrowding: Give each fillet enough space to cook properly. If you need to cook more than 2 fillets, do it in batches.
Seasoning Check: Be mindful of the salt content in your lemon pepper seasoning. If it’s unsalted, add about 3/4 teaspoon of sea salt to the mix.

Flavor Variations for Extra Zing
Cajun or blackened seasoning – Add some spice and heat for a different flavor profile.
Parmesan – Sprinkle parmesan over the fillets before cooking for a crispy, cheesy crust.
Lemon butter drizzle – For added richness, drizzle the fish with a lemon butter sauce after cooking.

Serving Suggestions
Pair your crispy tilapia with quick and easy sides. A simple Greek salad or arugula salad is perfect. You could also serve it with air-fried vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or roasted sweet potatoes. For something heartier, try mashed cauliflower or fluffy cauliflower rice. If you’re in the mood for tacos, flake the tilapia and wrap it in tortillas with slaw, salsa, and avocado for a fresh fish taco night.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long to cook tilapia in air fryer at 400°F?
Air fry tilapia at 400°F for 8-10 minutes. Cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your fillets.

Can I use frozen tilapia?
Yes, frozen tilapia works perfectly fine! Just make sure to thaw it before cooking for best results.

Can I bread the tilapia?
If you prefer breaded tilapia, you can coat the fillets with breadcrumbs or panko before air frying. Adjust the cooking time to ensure the breading crisps up.

Conclusion

This air fryer tilapia is a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal that comes together in just 10 minutes. Perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends, this crispy and flavorful fish recipe is a breeze to make with pantry staples. Whether you’re enjoying it with a salad, veggies, or turning it into tacos, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.