Description
This Air Fryer Tilapia recipe offers a quick, healthy, and delicious way to prepare tender and flaky fish fillets. Seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon juice, and a touch of olive oil, the tilapia cooks to perfection in just 12 minutes in the air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner, it serves four and pairs wonderfully with fresh lemon wedges.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 1 lb)
Seasoning
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish: Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks and the fish crisps up well in the air fryer.
- Season the Fillets: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Brush this mixture evenly over both sides of each tilapia fillet to infuse flavor throughout the fish.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5 minutes to ensure an ideal cooking environment for the fish.
- Arrange Fillets: Place the seasoned tilapia fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and a crispy finish on all sides.
- Cook the Tilapia: Air fry the fillets for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The fish should turn golden brown and become flaky when done.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the tilapia immediately with extra lemon wedges for an added burst of fresh citrus flavor.
Notes
- Make sure to pat the fish dry before seasoning to help the coating adhere better.
- If your air fryer basket is small, cook the fillets in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Check for doneness by gently flaking the thickest part of the fillet with a fork; it should flake easily.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving.
- Adjust salt and spices according to your taste preference.
