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Air Fryer Tilapia

Air Fryer Tilapia

Air Fryer Tilapia is a fast and easy way to cook seasoned tilapia fillets until flaky and lightly crisp. A simple spice rub of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder coats the fish, and the air fryer does the rest in under 10 minutes. Serve with steamed rice and a squeeze of fresh lemon.

⏱ Prep: 5 min ⏱ Cook: 10 min

Ingredients

  • 4 piece tilapia fillets (thawed completely if frozen)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1.5 tsp ground black pepper
  • 0 lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Pat the tilapia fillets dry on both sides using paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and gives the fish a better texture.

  2. Combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Mix well.

  3. Brush both sides of the tilapia fillets with olive oil. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the fish, covering all surfaces.

  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 2 minutes.

  5. Arrange the tilapia fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer with space between each piece. Avoid overlapping so the fillets cook evenly.

  6. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

  7. Transfer the fillets to a serving plate and squeeze fresh lemon juice on top.

  8. Serve with steamed rice.