Description
This Air Fryer Breaded Tilapia recipe offers a quick and healthy way to enjoy crispy, golden-brown tilapia filets. The fish is coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and cooked in the air fryer for a satisfying crunch without the need for deep frying, making it perfect for a light weeknight dinner or a simple weekend meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 tilapia filets
Breading Mixture
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
- lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the egg wash and breadcrumbs: In a glass bowl, whisk together the egg and water until combined. In another glass bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper thoroughly.
- Dry the tilapia and coat with egg wash: Pat each tilapia filet dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Dredge each filet in the egg wash, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
- Coat the fillets with breadcrumbs: Press each egg-washed filet into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating. Place the breaded filets on a clean plate and repeat with remaining fish.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. Spray the inner basket lightly with cooking oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the tilapia in the air fryer (first side): Arrange the breaded tilapia filets in a single layer in the air fryer basket; you may need to cook in batches. Spray the tops lightly with cooking oil spray. Cook for 10 minutes.
- Flip and finish cooking: Carefully flip each filet over and cook for another 5 minutes until the breading is golden brown and crisp. Check that the fish flakes easily with a fork to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray the fish with oil before air frying.
- Ensure the filets are patted dry to help the breading adhere better.
- Air fryer models vary; adjust cooking time accordingly if your fish cooks faster or slower.
- You can substitute breadcrumbs with panko for a lighter, crunchier texture.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
