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Air fryer breaded tilapia with a crispy golden coating, tender flaky fish, and fresh lemon wedges
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Air Fryer Breaded Tilapia - Crispy, Light, and Ready in Minutes

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Tilapia fillets: 4 fillets (about 4–6 ounces each), patted dry
  • All-purpose flour: 1/3 cup, for the initial dredge
  • Eggs: 2 large, beaten
  • Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (regular, panko, or a mix for extra crunch)
  • Parmesan cheese: 2 tablespoons, finely grated (optional but tasty)
  • Seasonings: 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper: About 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
  • Lemon: 1, cut into wedges, for serving
  • Oil: Neutral oil spray (avocado, canola, or olive oil spray) for the basket and coating
  • Optional add-ins: 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay or Cajun seasoning for a kick; finely chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes so it’s hot when the fish goes in.
  • Prep the dredging station: In one shallow bowl, add flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Dry the fish well: Pat fillets thoroughly with paper towels. Dry fish helps the coating stick and crisp.
  • Coat the tilapia: Dredge each fillet in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure every spot is covered.
  • Oil for crispness: Lightly spray both sides of each breaded fillet with oil. Also spray the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
  • Air fry the first side: Arrange fillets in a single layer in the basket, not touching. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 5–6 minutes.
  • Flip and finish: Carefully flip, spray again, and cook 3–5 more minutes. The coating should be golden and the fish should flake easily with a fork. Internal temp should reach 145°F (63°C).
  • Rest and serve: Let the fish sit 2 minutes to set the crust. Squeeze with lemon and garnish with parsley if you like.