Description
Crispy, golden air fryer tilapia fillets coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs, ready in under 15 minutes for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4–6 oz Tilapia Fillets (fresh or thawed frozen)
- All-Purpose Flour (for dredging)
- Egg Whites (beaten)
- Panko Breadcrumbs
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
- Smoked Paprika
- Sea Salt
- Black Pepper
- Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- Olive Oil or Butter (for spraying/drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the tilapia fillets completely dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg whites, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.
- Dredge each fillet in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into egg whites, then press firmly into the panko mixture to coat all sides.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Arrange the coated fillets in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Lightly spray the tops of the fillets with oil.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping the fish halfway through.
- Fish is done when opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and the coating is golden brown.
- Remove from air fryer, let rest for a minute, and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
Notes
Ensure fillets are completely dry before breading to maximize crispiness. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). For a gluten-free version, use almond flour and gluten-free panko.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet per serving
- Calories: 250
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 1.5
- Carbohydrates: 15
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 28
Keywords: air fryer tilapia, healthy fish recipe, quick weeknight dinner, crispy tilapia, gluten-free options, lean protein, easy seafood