Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Tilapia
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Tilapia features delicate fish fillets coated in a crispy, golden blend of Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and savory herbs, air-fried to perfection in just 10 minutes. The result is a healthier, less-messy version of fried fish with all the satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets about 4-6 oz each, thawed if frozen
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese fresh is best, but pre-grated works too
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika adds extra flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs beaten
- Olive oil cooking spray
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. Proper preheating ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Pat the tilapia fillets completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting the coating to stick properly and achieving a crispy exterior.
- Set up your breading station with two shallow dishes. In the first, beat the eggs until well combined. In the second, mix together the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each fillet into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off, then thoroughly coat in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating to all sides of the fish.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the coated fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Depending on your air fryer size, you might need to cook in batches.
- Spray the tops of the fillets with a light coating of olive oil spray to promote browning and crispiness.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes until the coating is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Carefully remove the fillets from the air fryer and let them rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of grated lemon zest to your Parmesan mixture.
- If you’re watching sodium, you can reduce or omit the added salt since Parmesan cheese already contains sodium.
- For a dairy-free version, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and add an extra pinch of salt.
- The coating can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Different air fryer models may vary in cooking time, so check your fish at the 7-minute mark the first time you make this recipe.
- If cooking in batches, keep the first batch warm in a 200°F oven while the second batch cooks.