Air Fryer Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia

$- 4 tilapia fillets - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and freshly ground black pepper - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - Fresh lemon wedges The ingredients in this dish work together to create a delightful meal. Tilapia is a mild fish, making it perfect for everyone. The Parmesan cheese adds a savory flavor that pairs well with the fish. Panko breadcrumbs give a nice crunch. Garlic powder, oregano, and smoked paprika bring bold tastes to the table. Seasoning with salt and pepper enhances all the flavors. Olive oil helps the coating stick and adds richness. Lastly, fresh lemon wedges brighten the dish. - Calories per serving: About 300 calories - Protein: 28 grams - Fats: 15 grams - Carbs: 18 grams This meal is not only tasty but also nutritious. The tilapia provides a good source of protein. The healthy fats from olive oil add flavor and nutrition. Overall, this dish fits well into a balanced diet. Enjoy it guilt-free! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for crisping. Preheating lets the air fryer reach the right heat. It helps cook the fish evenly and quickly. In a shallow bowl, mix together the following: - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and freshly ground black pepper Stir well to combine. You can add herbs like parsley for extra flavor. A dash of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick. Take your tilapia fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps remove moisture. A dry fillet holds the coating better. It also gives you a crispier texture when cooked. Brush both sides of each tilapia fillet lightly with extra virgin olive oil. This adds flavor and helps the coating stick. Next, dredge each fillet in the breadcrumb mix. Press gently to cover both sides evenly. This ensures each bite is full of flavor. Place the coated fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure the fillets do not overlap. This allows hot air to circulate and cook the fish evenly. Overlapping can lead to uneven cooking. Air fry the tilapia for 8 to 10 minutes. Flip the fillets halfway through cooking. The tilapia is done when the coating is golden brown. It should flake easily when you test it with a fork. This indicates a perfectly cooked meal. To get that extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. They are light and airy. Mix them with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a killer topping. You can also try crushed cornflakes or crushed tortilla chips for a fun twist. Both of these options add a unique crunch. You can boost the flavor of the coating by adding spices. Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or lemon zest for a fresh taste. If you want to marinate the tilapia, use lemon juice and herbs. This adds moisture and flavor before coating. If your fillets are thicker, increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Always check that the fish flakes easily with a fork. Different air fryers may cook at different rates. If yours runs hot, reduce the temperature slightly to avoid burning. Adjusting the time and temperature helps you get the best result every time. Pro Tips Choose Fresh Fish: Always opt for fresh tilapia fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for fillets that are firm and have a mild scent. Customize Your Coating: Feel free to spice up the breadcrumb mixture by adding your favorite herbs or spices, such as thyme or cayenne pepper, for an extra kick. Check for Doneness: To ensure the fish is perfectly cooked, use a fork to test if it flakes easily. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the tilapia right after cooking. This ensures the coating remains crispy and delicious! {{image_4}} You can switch up the flavors of your Air Fryer Parmesan Tilapia with different seasonings. - Italian herb blend: Combine dried basil, thyme, and rosemary with the Parmesan for a classic touch. This adds a fragrant aroma and a taste that feels like a trip to Italy. - Spicy rendition: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the coating mix. This gives a nice kick and is perfect for spice lovers. Pairing your tilapia with the right sides makes the meal even better. - Recommended side dishes: Try serving the tilapia with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or quinoa. These sides complement the fish and add more nutrients. - Pairing suggestions for a complete meal: For a heartier meal, consider mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto. Both options balance the lightness of the fish and provide comfort. You can easily adapt this recipe to fit different dietary needs. - Gluten-free options: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko. This keeps the crunch while making it safe for those who avoid gluten. - Dairy-free alternatives: Swap the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free cheese. Nutritional yeast also works well for a cheesy flavor without dairy. To keep your tilapia fresh, place leftover fillets in an airtight container. You can also wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Make sure to cool them to room temperature before sealing. Refrigerate your leftovers right away. They can last for about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing. Frozen tilapia can last up to 3 months. The best way to reheat your tilapia is in the air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the fillets in the basket in a single layer. Heat for about 4 to 5 minutes, checking to avoid overcooking. This method keeps the fish crispy and delicious. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also use an oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for around 10 minutes. Just make sure to cover the fish with foil to prevent it from drying out. Yes, you can use frozen tilapia fillets. To defrost them, place the fillets in the fridge overnight. If you need to defrost them quickly, put the sealed fillets in cold water for about 30 minutes. Avoid using hot water, as it can cook the fish unevenly. You can tell tilapia is done when it flakes easily with a fork. The coating should be golden brown. The fish should also reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If it looks opaque and no longer translucent, it is likely cooked through. Yes, you can prepare the tilapia ahead of time. Coat the fish and store it in the fridge for up to an hour before cooking. For longer storage, you can freeze the coated fillets. Just remember to cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. I suggest pairing the tilapia with a fresh salad and roasted veggies. You can serve it with steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a light quinoa salad. For a classic touch, try adding a side of rice or garlic mashed potatoes. This guide covered everything you need for Air Fryer Parmesan Tilapia. We looked at the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for extra crunch. You found ways to add flavor and make it your own. Finally, the storage and reheating tips ensure your meal stays fresh and tasty. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides, and impress others with your cooking skills. Now, you can make a healthy, delicious meal in no time. Happy cooking!$

Air Fryer Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia

A delicious and crispy tilapia fillet coated with Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, cooked to perfection in an air fryer.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

4 fillets tilapia
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
for serving Fresh lemon wedges

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Gently pat each tilapia fillet dry with paper towels.
Lightly brush both sides of each tilapia fillet with extra virgin olive oil.
Dredge each fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly for an even coating.
Place the coated tilapia fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping.
Air fry the tilapia for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and flaky.
Carefully remove the tilapia fillets and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.

Notes

For a stunning presentation, serve the tilapia on a bed of vibrant mixed greens or beside roasted seasonal vegetables. Drizzle with a touch of extra virgin olive oil and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a splash of color and freshness!

Keyword air fryer, Parmesan, seafood, tilapia