Preheat the air fryer. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A hot basket helps keep the fish from sticking and builds a better crust.

Pat the tilapia dry. Use paper towels to dry both sides thoroughly. Removing surface moisture gives you better browning and prevents steaming.

Mix the seasoning. In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.

Oil and season. Drizzle the fillets with olive oil on both sides. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly, pressing gently so it adheres.

Prep the basket. Lightly mist the air fryer basket with nonstick spray to reduce sticking.

Air fry the fish. Arrange the fillets in a single layer with space between each piece. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 7–10 minutes, depending on thickness. Tilapia is done when it flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Finish with lemon. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets right after cooking. Garnish with parsley or dill if you like.

Serve. Plate with your favorite sides—steamed broccoli, roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a crisp salad work well.