Air Fryer Coconut Crusted Tilapia

Air Fryer Coconut Crusted Tilapia — A crispy, flavorful crust makes this Tilapia recipe perfect. The secret is in the air fryer!

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 Coconut Crusted Tilapia

• Deliciously Crispy: The coconut crust adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender tilapia. Each bite offers a satisfying texture that will keep you coming back for more.

• Tropical Flavor: The sweet, nutty taste of coconut infuses the fish with a tropical flair, making it a refreshing change from traditional breaded fish. It’s like a mini vacation for your taste buds!

• Healthy and Light: Tilapia is a lean source of protein, and baking or air frying the fish keeps it light and healthy. Enjoy a guilt-free meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

• Quick and Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll have a restaurant-quality dish on the table in no time.

• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavor of tilapia and the hint of sweetness from the coconut make this dish appealing to kids. It’s a great way to introduce them to new flavors and healthy eating.

• Versatile Serving Options: Coconut crusted tilapia pairs well with a variety of sides, from rice and veggies to salads and tropical salsas. You can easily customize your meal to suit your preferences.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Coconut Tilapia Recipe

Here are the simple ingredients, you will need for coconut crusted fish in air fryer.

 

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• 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

Here are the step-by-step directions to make air fryer coconut crusted tilapia with flour. 

 

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

 

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

 

Place your fish onto the air fryer basket or pan, and spray it with olive oil. Slide your tray into the air fryer. Set your temperature to 400 degrees F.

 

Set your timer for 4 minutes, after 4 minutes, flip and air fry for another 4 minutes. Check to make sure your fish is fully cooked, and then plate, serve, and enjoy!

 

Pro Tips Air Fried Coconut Crusted Tilapia

• Choose Fresh Fillets: Use fresh tilapia fillets for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen fillets, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture.

• Even Coating: For a consistent crust, press the coconut and panko mixture firmly onto the fillets. This helps ensure the coating sticks during cooking.

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior. Preheating helps the fillets cook more evenly and quickly.

• Light Spray of Oil: Use olive oil spray lightly to avoid adding too much fat but still achieve a golden, crispy crust. Spray both the air fryer basket and the tops of the fillets.

• Single Layer Cooking: Arrange the fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy crust.

• Flip Carefully: Flip the fillets halfway through cooking to ensure both sides get evenly crispy. Use a spatula to turn them gently to prevent the coating from falling off.

• Check for Doneness: The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Avoid overcooking to keep the tilapia moist and tender.

• Batch Cooking: If making multiple batches, keep the cooked fillets warm in an oven set to low heat (about 200°F/93°C) while you finish cooking the remaining fillets.

• Enhance Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, add a bit of lime zest or cayenne pepper to the coconut and panko mixture before coating the fillets.

• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the coconut-crusted tilapia immediately after cooking. Pair it with a zesty dipping sauce or a fresh tropical salsa for a delightful meal.

 

Faq’s Coconut Crusted Tilapia Air Fryer Recipe

Can I use a different type of fish? Yes, you can use other mild-flavored white fish such as cod, haddock, or flounder. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.

How do I prevent the coconut from burning? To prevent the coconut from burning, make sure the pieces are not too large, and keep an eye on the fillets while they cook. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the air fryer temperature slightly.

Can I bake the tilapia instead of using an air fryer? Yes, you can bake the tilapia in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.

How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftover coconut-crusted tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until warmed and crispy.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? You can prepare the breaded fillets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking. This can help save time if you’re preparing for a meal later.

What should I serve with coconut-crusted tilapia? This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. A tropical salsa or a squeeze of lime juice also complements the flavors nicely.

Can I use sweetened coconut? While you can use sweetened coconut, it may add more sweetness to the dish. If you prefer a less sweet option, use unsweetened shredded coconut.

Do I need to flip the fish halfway through cooking? Yes, flipping the fish halfway through cooking ensures that both sides become evenly crispy and golden brown.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off? To help the coating stick, make sure to press the coconut and panko mixture firmly onto the fillets. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can cause the coating to rub off.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Tuna Steaks
• Calamari

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