Easy Air Fryer Frozen Tilapia

This Easy Air Fryer Frozen Tilapia Recipe makes dinner effortless — no thawing required! The fish comes out perfectly flaky and tender every time, with a light, golden crust that’s full of flavor.

Make dinner effortless with this Easy Air Fryer Frozen Tilapia recipe! No need to thaw—just pop the fillets straight into your air fryer for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal.

The fish cooks to tender perfection with a light, crisp exterior, making it a simple weeknight dinner that pairs beautifully with veggies, rice, or salad.

Ideal for busy nights when you want something delicious without the fuss!

If you love easy Air Fryer Recipes, try my recipe for Air Fryer Honey Orange Firecracker Shrimp, or Air Fryer Cajun Snapper!

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick and effortless – No need to thaw; cooks straight from the freezer in minutes.
• Healthy and light – A great source of lean protein with minimal oil.
• Crispy outside, tender inside – The air fryer gives perfect texture every time.
• Versatile flavors – Pairs well with any seasoning or side dish.
• Perfect for busy nights – A fast, no-fuss meal the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients Needed

• Frozen tilapia fillets – mild, flaky white fish base.
• Garlic powder – adds savory, aromatic depth of flavor.
• Onion powder – enhances overall taste with subtle sweetness.
• Salt – brings out the natural fish flavors.
• Black pepper – adds a gentle kick and warmth.

How To Make Easy Air Fryer Frozen Tilapia

Step One: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200°C), for 3-5 minutes.

Step Two: Lightly brush or spray the frozen fish fillets with olive oil. This not only helps in cooking but also adds flavor, be sure to coat the sides of the fish with seasoning mix. Season the fillets with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Feel free to add garlic powder, paprika, or other herbs and spices you prefer.

Step Three: Place the seasoned tilapia fillets in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overlapping, even when cooking.

Step Four: Set cook time for 12-14 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. There’s no need to flip the fillets halfway through cooking Once done, carefully remove the tilapia from the air fryer.

Easy Air Fryer Frozen Tilapia Recipe Tips

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Always start with a preheated air fryer.
• Do Not Thaw: Cook the tilapia straight from frozen. Thawing can change the texture and moisture content of the fish, affecting the final outcome.
• Seasoning Matters: Season the tilapia well to enhance its mild flavor. Even a simple seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon can make a big difference. Consider marinating the fish for a few minutes in your favorite herbs or sauces for more flavor.
• Oil Lightly: Lightly brush or spray the tilapia with avocado oil before cooking. This helps to achieve a golden-brown finish and prevents the fish from drying out.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the fish in a single layer without overlapping. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of frying.
• Flip Gently: If the size of your air fryer requires it, flip the fish halfway through cooking. Be gentle to avoid breaking the fillets.
• Use Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier, you can use a piece of parchment paper at the bottom of the air fryer basket.
• Don’t Overcook: Tilapia cooks quickly, especially in an air fryer. Overcooking can make it dry and tough. It’s done when the flesh flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Before removing the fish from the air fryer, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. 
• Rest Before Serving: Let the fish rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flaky texture.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the tilapia with a wedge of lemon, your favorite side dish, or a light salad to complement its flavors.

Storing & Reheating Instructions

• Storing: Place leftover cooked tilapia in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes, or in the oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until heated through, to maintain crispiness.

Easy Air Fryer Frozen Tilapia Recipe Faqs

Do I need to thaw the tilapia before air frying? No! This recipe is designed to cook tilapia straight from frozen for a quick, easy dinner.

How long should I cook frozen tilapia in the air fryer?: Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is flaky and cooked through.

Can I use frozen tilapia fillets with skin on? Yes, but cooking time may increase slightly depending on thickness.

What seasonings work best with this recipe?: Simple salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika work well, or try lemon juice, fresh herbs, or your favorite fish seasoning.

Can I freeze cooked tilapia for later? Yes, store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.

How do I ensure the tilapia comes out crispy? Lightly brush or spray the fillets with olive oil before cooking and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• TRADER JOE’S AREPAS IN AIR FRYER
• AIR FRYER ROASTED FIGS
• AIR FRYER CRACKER BARREL’S BUTTERMILK BISCUITS
• TRADER JOE’S PASTY PUPS AIR FRYER

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