Air Fryer Coconut Crusted Tilapia

This Air Fryer Coconut Crusted Tilapia is a light, crispy, and flavorful way to enjoy fish with a tropical twist! Fresh tilapia fillets are coated in a delicious coconut and breadcrumb mixture, then air-fried to golden perfection without the need for heavy oil. It’s a quick, healthy, and family-friendly recipe perfect for busy weeknights or a fresh seafood dinner at home.

This Air Fryer Coconut Crusted Tilapia is one of my favorite dinners for a typical Friday night fish fry. It is tasty and prepared really well with the help of the air fryer.

While I used Tilapia in this recipe, this recipe will work perfectly for any white fish, including cod, haddock, catfish, trout, Alaskan Pollack, bass, grouper, or even halibut. All of the white fish are great for air frying.

If you are looking for some really great Air Fryer Seafood Recipes, some of my favorites are CHILE LIME AIR FRYER SALMON, AIR FRYER SHRIMP ON THE BARBIE (OUTBACK COPYCAT RECIPE), and AIR FRYER CRAB CAKE SANDWICHES.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes with simple, everyday ingredients.

• Light and Crispy – The air fryer creates a perfectly golden, crunchy coconut crust without deep frying.

• Healthy and Flavorful – A fresh, tropical twist on traditional fried fish that’s lighter and full of flavor.

• Family-Friendly – A delicious way to get even picky eaters to enjoy seafood.

• Perfect for Busy Nights – Great for a fast, wholesome weeknight dinner that feels special but is effortless.

Ingredients Needed  

• Unsweetened flaked coconut: Adds a sweet, nutty flavor and a crunchy texture that perfectly complements the tilapia.
• Coconut flour: Light and crispy breading that enhance the crunchiness of the coating.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the tilapia and the coconut crust.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binder, helping the coconut and breadcrumbs adhere to the tilapia fillets.
• Tilapia Fillets: Fresh, mild-flavored fish that cooks quickly and provides a tender base for the crispy coconut crust.

How To Make Air Fryer Coconut-Crusted Tilapia

Step One: Start by mixing the unsweetened flaked coconut, coconut flour, and sea salt together.  Then in a small bowl, beat the eggs. 

Step Two: Then dip your fillets into the beaten eggs and then into the coconut mixture. Spray your air fryer basket or pan,

Step Three: Place your coated fish into the air fryer basket or air fryer tray, and spray the fish with olive oil. Slide your tray into the air fryer. Set your air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F.

Step Four: Set cook time for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway during the cooking process. Check to make sure your fish is fully cooked, and then plate, serve, and enjoy!

Air Fryer Coconut Crusted Tilapia Recipe Tips

• Pat the fish dry before coating to help the coconut mixture stick better.

• Use unsweetened coconut to avoid an overly sweet crust and keep the flavor balanced.

• Spray the air fryer basket and fish lightly with oil for maximum crispiness without sticking.

• Flip the fish halfway through to ensure even cooking and a golden crust on both sides.

• Don’t overcrowd the basket — cook the fillets in a single layer for best results.

• Check for doneness — tilapia should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Storing

• Storing: Store leftover coconut crusted tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Let the fillets cool completely before sealing to maintain their crispy coating.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked and cooled tilapia by placing it on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best flavor and texture.
• Reheating: Reheat the tilapia in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4–6 minutes until hot and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to prevent the coating from becoming soggy.

What To Serve With Coconut Crusted Tilapia Air Fryer Recipe

Pair your Air Fryer Coconut Crusted Tilapia with light, fresh sides that complement its tropical, crispy flavor! A simple green salad, roasted asparagus, or sautéed spinach make great low-carb options.

For a more filling meal, serve it with coconut rice, cauliflower rice, or a refreshing mango salsa. You can also add a side of roasted sweet potatoes or a citrusy coleslaw for a colorful and balanced plate that’s perfect for a quick, healthy dinner.

Coconut Crusted Tilapia Air Fryer Recipe Faqs

Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened? It’s best to use unsweetened coconut to avoid making the crust overly sweet and to keep the flavors balanced.

Can I substitute another type of fish? Yes! This recipe works well with other mild, flaky fish like cod, haddock, or flounder.

How do I know when the tilapia is fully cooked? The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Do I need to preheat the air fryer? Preheating helps achieve a crispier coating, so it’s recommended but not absolutely necessary.

How do I keep the coconut crust from falling off? Make sure to pat the fish dry before dipping and press the coconut coating firmly onto the fillets before air frying.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Tuna Steaks
• Calamari
• Air Fryer Cheeseburger French Fry Casserole
• Air Fryer Chicken And Broccoli Casserole
• Air Fryer Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Don’t Forget To Pin!

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