Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Tilapia

Looking for a delicious and easy air fryer recipe? Look no further than this parmesan crusted air fryer tilapia recipe! Serve with a delicious lemon butter sauce, this might just be the best meal, you make in your air fryer!

If you have been looking for a great air fryer tilapia recipe that the entire family will love, this is one of the best, and it’s easy enough that it’s perfect for a weeknight-friendly meal, and it’s so delicious!

The coating is amazing, and filled with my favorite herbs and of course freshly grated parmesan cheese! It’s flavorful and super simple!

Serve with my recipe for air fryer curry potatoes, Air Fryer Ranch Carrots, or Air Fryer Asparagus Crescent Rolls.

This recipe is not only family friendly, it’s low-carb, diabetic friendly and keto friendly!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Tilapia

Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

Remember the step-by-step ingredients are below in the printable recipe card, scroll to the end of the page.

• Tilapia Fillets: You can either use fresh or frozen tilapia. For best results, thaw the tilapia before air frying.
• Panko: You can also use pork rinds, for a keto and low carb friendly option, or gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
• Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese, for the best results.
• Seasonings and Spices: Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Kosher Salt, and Black Pepper Or use your own seasoning blend.
• Serving: Fresh Lemon Slices, Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest, Tartar Sauce, or Cocktail Sauce

How to cook parmesan crusted tilapia in air fryer

Here are the step-by-step instructions:

Step One: Prep The Air Fryer, Tilapia Fillets, and Breading Mixture

Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F, using the air fryer setting. Dry your fillets with a paper towel, and set them aside. In a small bowl, make your parmesan mixture, and add the bread crumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step Two: Bread The Fish Fillets

Spray, with cooking spray, or brush your fish with olive oil, then dip your filets into the crust mixture, using your hands to press the crust into the fish.

Step Three: Place the Tilapia In The Air Fryer Basket

Spray your air fryer basket and set the tilapia filets into the air fryer basket, being careful not to crowd the basket, depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the fish in batches. Remember a single layer is the best way to cook this great recipe!

Step Four: How Long To Cook Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Tilapia

Set the cooking time for 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the fish reaches 145 degrees f, using a meat thermometer. Let the fish rest for a couple of minutes, before serving.

Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Tilapia Recipe Tips

• Thaw: For best results, thaw your frozen fish fillets for a couple of minutes, before you add the breadcrumb mixture. Removing as much moisture, with a paper towel is an easy way to get the crispy panko breadcrumbs that you want! Fresh fish is always the idea for an air fryer fish recipe!
• Crowding: For best results do not crowd the air fryer basket, otherwise it will not crisp up. Leave plenty of room around the fish, so the sides of the fish fully cook.
• Timing: Depending on the tilapia fillets you are using, and the air fryer you are using, the timing will differ. If you are using thin tilapia fillets the cooking time will be less, you may want to reduce the cooking temperature to 350 degrees F.
• Seasonings: A really popular way to make these is to use a zesty parmesan mix, using Old Bay Seasoning or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Tilapia Recipe Faqs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute tilapia with other mild, white fish such as cod or haddock. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different types of fish.

How do I ensure the tilapia stays crispy? To keep the tilapia crispy, make sure to pat the fillets dry before coating them. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow for even air circulation.

What can I use if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast.

Can I prepare the tilapia ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the tilapia and coat it with the Parmesan mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

How long does it take to cook tilapia in an air fryer? The cooking time for tilapia in an air fryer typically ranges from 10 to 12 minutes at 375°F (190°C), depending on the thickness of the fillets. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.

Can I use frozen tilapia for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen tilapia. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before coating and cooking.

What should I serve with Parmesan crusted tilapia? Parmesan crusted tilapia pairs well with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad. It’s also delicious with a squeeze of lemon juice on top.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back in the air fryer for a few minutes to re-crisp the coating.

Can I make the Parmesan crust ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the Parmesan crust mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. Simply coat the tilapia when you’re ready to cook.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet? To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether and increase the amount of Parmesan cheese for a thicker crust.

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