Air Fryer Parmesan Tilapia

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These crispy tilapia fillets have a golden Panko-Parmesan crust and tender, flaky interior. Ready in just 15 minutes, they’re perfect for busy nights.

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: All Recipes, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings: servings

Calories: 205kcal

Author: Jeri Walker

Ingredients

3-4 tilapia fillets (5-6 oz each, fresh or thawed)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or Miracle Whip)
½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

PREHEAT: Set air fryer to 400°F. While it preheats, pat tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to help the crust adhere and crisp up properly.
MIX: In a small bowl, stir together ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
COAT: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on both sides of each fillet with a pastry brush or the back of a spoon. Press about 2 teaspoons of the breadcrumb mixture onto each side of the fish, making sure the coating sticks evenly.
SPRAY & ARRANGE: Place fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray the top side of each fillet with oil. (I used avocado oil spray.) Flip, then spray the other side. This helps the crust turn golden and crispy.
AIR FRY: Cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, or until the coating is golden and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Thicker fillets may need an extra minute. (DO NOT flip the fillets - they will fall apart.)
SERVE: Transfer to a plate and serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired, and enjoy!

Video

Notes

Be sure fillets are completely dry before coating for the crispiest texture.
Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness: 145°F internal temp.
For extra crispiness, don’t skip the oil spray on both sides.
If your air fryer is small, cook in batches so the fillets aren’t overcrowded.
Leftovers? Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes.
Works well with other white fish like cod or haddock.
Pairs great with roasted vegetables, fries, or a side salad.
No air fryer? Bake the tilapia fillets in the oven at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Every air fryer model cooks a little differently depending on size, wattage, and basket style. I recommend checking your food a few minutes early the first time you try a new recipe. Use a meat thermometer whenever possible to make sure everything is cooked perfectly!

Nutrition