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air fryer tilapia 2026 05 09 203653 683x1024 1

Air Fryer Tilapia

Enjoy crispy, flaky tilapia without deep frying, thanks to the air fryer. This recipe is quick, healthy, and versatile for any meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 220
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Tilapia Fillets
  • 4 fillets tilapia fillets (4-6 oz each) Fresh, flaky, and mild.
Seasoning Mix
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter Enhances flavor and promotes crispiness.
  • ½ teaspoon paprika Adds a warm smoky flavor.
  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder Brings a hint of heat.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper Adds spiciness.
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder Infuses savory depth.
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder Complements garlic.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • to taste fresh lemon wedges Brightens the dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil or melted butter with the paprika, chili powder, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to make a flavorful seasoning mix.
  3. Brush the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of each tilapia fillet.
Cooking
  1. Place the seasoned tilapia fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  2. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serving
  1. Once done, remove the fillets from the air fryer and serve hot with fresh lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

For the best crispiness, ensure that the tilapia fillets are patted dry before seasoning. Feel free to customize the spices to your liking. Adding panko breadcrumbs to the seasoning mix can provide extra crunch.