Description
This air fryer tilapia is the perfect solution for a healthy, high-protein meal. By using high-velocity hot air, the fillets achieve a delicate, golden-crisp exterior while staying succulent and moist inside. Infused with fresh lemon, pungent garlic, and earthy parsley, this recipe highlights the natural sweetness of the white fish. It is a streamlined, efficient cooking method that saves time, minimizes kitchen cleanup, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple pantry staples.
Ingredients
2 tilapia fillets (thawed and patted dry)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Pat the tilapia fillets completely dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy texture.
Brush the garlic and lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the tilapia fillets.
Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
Cook for 8 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Carefully remove the fish and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
Ensure fillets are completely thawed and patted dry to prevent steaming.
If your air fryer tends to stick, use a piece of parchment paper designed for air fryers.
Cod or flounder can be substituted if tilapia is unavailable.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 8
- Category: Air Fryer Recipes
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Modern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 55mg