Air Fryer Tilapia

Light, flaky, and perfectly seasoned, this Air Fryer Tilapia is a quick and healthy dinner option that comes together in under 15 minutes. The smoky-spiced seasoning adds bold flavor, while the air fryer ensures a tender inside with a slightly crisp exterior—no oil-heavy frying required.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a weeknight lifesaver: it’s fast, flavorful, and made with simple pantry spices. Tilapia is a mild white fish that takes on seasoning beautifully, and the air fryer makes it practically effortless. With minimal prep and just a few minutes of cooking, you can have a nutritious, protein-packed meal on the table in no time. Plus, it pairs well with a wide variety of sides, from fresh salads to roasted vegetables or rice.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

24 ounces tilapia fillets (4–6 ounces each)
1 tablespoon avocado oil
2 teaspoons paprika
½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 lemon, cut into quarters
1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley

Directions

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.

2. Brush both sides of tilapia fillets with avocado oil. Lightly coat the bottom of the air fryer basket with any remaining oil.

3. Season both sides of fillets with paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

4. Place seasoned fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

5. Cook for 7–10 minutes, until the fish is flaky and easily falls apart.

6. Top with fresh lemon wedges and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 7 minutes
Total time: 12 minutes
Calories: 190 kcal per serving

Variations

• Swap tilapia for cod, haddock, or mahi-mahi.

• Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.

• Use Old Bay seasoning for a classic seafood flavor.

• Serve with a garlic butter drizzle for extra richness.

• Replace avocado oil with olive oil if preferred.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes, or in the oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving for too long to keep the fish from drying out.

FAQs

Can I cook frozen tilapia in the air fryer?

Yes, but increase the cooking time by 2–4 minutes and check for doneness.

Is tilapia a strong-tasting fish?

No, tilapia has a mild flavor, making it great for those who aren’t big fans of “fishy” seafood.

Can I use this recipe for other white fish?

Absolutely—any mild, firm white fish works well.

Do I need to flip the tilapia while cooking?

Not necessarily, but flipping halfway can ensure more even browning.

Can I bake this instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness.

What sides go well with air fryer tilapia?

Steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, salads, or roasted potatoes are all great options.

How do I know when tilapia is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this without oil?

Yes, but the oil helps the seasoning stick and adds moisture to the fish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Tilapia is a quick, light, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy nights. With its smoky seasoning, tender texture, and fresh lemon finish, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll want to keep in your weekly dinner rotation.

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