Looking for a fast, flavorful, and healthy seafood dinner? This Air Fryer Tilapia recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something light yet satisfying. With just a few pantry spices, a drizzle of olive oil, and the magic of the air fryer, you’ll have tender, flaky tilapia with a perfectly crisp exterior — all in under 10 minutes.
📑 Table of Contents
- Air Fryer Tilapia Ingredients
- How to Make Air Fryer Tilapia – Step-by-Step
- Air Fryer Tilapia Cooking Time & Servings
- Tips for the Best Air Fryer Tilapia
- Serving Suggestions
- Related Recipes You’ll Love
- FAQs About Air Fryer Tilapia
- Learn More About Tilapia & Air Fryer Cooking
- Final Thoughts
🛒 Air Fryer Tilapia Ingredients
2 tilapia fillets
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
Lemon wedges, for serving
👩🍳 How to Make Air Fryer Tilapia – Step-by-Step
Step 1 – Prep the Tilapia Fillets
Pat tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to ensure even crisping.
Step 2 – Season the Tilapia
Brush both sides with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Step 3 – Air Fry the Tilapia
Place fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 4 – Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty finish.
🕒 Air Fryer Tilapia Cooking Time & Servings
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 mins | 8 mins | 10 mins | 2 |
💡 Tips for the Best Air Fryer Tilapia
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket — airflow is key to crispiness.
For extra flavor, marinate tilapia for 15 minutes before air frying.
Lightly spraying with oil halfway boosts golden color.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
This crispy Air Fryer Tilapia pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf. For more seafood inspiration, check out our Seafood Pasta Salad for a creamy, chilled option or our Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp for a smoky twist. Both recipes complement tilapia’s mild flavor perfectly.
🔗 Related Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this Air Fryer Tilapia, try serving it alongside our refreshing 🦐🍝Seafood Pasta Salad for a light yet satisfying seafood pairing, or pair it with the 🥗Simple Garden Salad a fresh, tangy contrast. These combinations create a balanced meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
❓ FAQs About Air Fryer Tilapia
Q: Can I use frozen tilapia in the air fryer?
A: Yes! Just thaw it completely and pat dry before seasoning for best results.
Q: What temperature should I cook tilapia in the air fryer?
A: 400°F (200°C) works best for a crispy exterior and flaky interior.
Q: How do I know when tilapia is cooked?
A: It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flake easily with a fork.
🌐 Learn More About Tilapia & Air Fryer Cooking
If you’re curious about the many health benefits of tilapia, you’ll love this in-depth article from Health.com that explores why this mild, tender fish is such a smart choice for your diet. It covers everything from its high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids to its impressive vitamin and mineral profile, including vitamin B12, potassium, and selenium. You’ll also learn how tilapia’s low calorie content makes it ideal for balanced, heart-healthy meals without sacrificing flavor.
✅ Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Tilapia is a healthy, delicious, and speedy meal you can enjoy any day of the week. It’s simple enough for beginners but flavorful enough to impress guests.
We’d love to hear your thoughts — leave a comment below sharing how your tilapia turned out, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family. Thanks for reading and visiting our site — happy cooking!