Description

This Crispy Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Tilapia offers a golden, crunchy Parmesan and panko coating that locks in moisture for tender, flaky fish inside. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and lemon zest, it delivers a bright, tangy flavor with a kid-friendly crunch, all made healthier and quicker using an air fryer. Ideal for a quick, elegant brunch or light lunch, this easy recipe pairs well with fresh salads, grains, or buttery toast.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk (or almond milk)

Breading Mix

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Seasonings & Garnish

1 tablespoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon sea salt
Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparing the Fish: Pat the tilapia fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture for a crisp crust. Sprinkle both sides evenly with sea salt and let rest for 5 minutes to allow seasoning to penetrate. Meanwhile, whisk together the eggs and milk in a shallow bowl until smooth to create an egg wash.
Mixing the Crust: In a separate shallow dish, combine grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and lemon zest. Mix thoroughly to ensure the zest is evenly distributed, giving every bite a burst of citrus aroma and flavor.
Coating the Fillets: Submerge each salted tilapia fillet in the egg-milk wash, allowing any excess to drip off to avoid sogginess. Then press both sides of the fillet firmly into the Parmesan-panko mixture so a generous, even layer sticks, ensuring uniform browning and crispness.
Preheating the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for 3 minutes. A hot air fryer basket jump-starts caramelization and creates a crunchy crust quickly.
Air Frying the Tilapia: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Place the coated fillets in a single layer with some space between each piece to prevent steaming. Air fry for 5 minutes, then carefully flip the fillets and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and has a deep golden-brown, crispy crust.
Finishing Touches: Transfer the cooked fillets to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Serve immediately to enjoy maximum crunch and the perfect balance of savory and citrus notes.

Notes

Pat the fish very dry before seasoning to ensure the crust sticks well and crisps up.
Use a high-smoke-point oil like avocado oil spray for browning without greasiness.
Flip the fillets only once to maintain crust integrity.
Let the fish rest for 2 minutes before serving to set the crust and avoid sogginess.
To add heat, mix cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mix.
Try pre-toasting panko in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes to achieve extra crunch.
Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes to revive crispness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dinners
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: International

Keywords: tilapia, air fryer fish, crispy fish recipe, parmesan crust, panko breadcrumbs, healthy seafood, quick dinner, brunch recipe, easy air fryer, kid-friendly fish