Ingredients:

  • 4 Tilapia Fillets (about 5-6 oz each, ½ inch thick)
  • ½ teaspoon Fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 Large Eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup Finely grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Dried Parsley
  • Cooking Spray (Olive oil or avocado oil)

Instructions:

  1. Pat the tilapia fillets thoroughly dry using paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
  2. Set up the three-dish breading station: Dish 1 with Flour; Dish 2 with whisked Eggs; Dish 3 with Panko, Parmesan, Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, and Parsley, mixed thoroughly.
  3. Dredge the fillets one by one: Coat completely in Flour (shaking off excess), dip into Egg, then press firmly into the Panko Mixture until fully coated. Place coated fillets on a plate.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  5. Lightly spray the bottom of the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded tilapia fillets in a single layer, ensuring no pieces are touching.
  6. Lightly spray the tops of the coated fillets with cooking spray.
  7. Cook for 5 minutes. Then, carefully flip the fillets using tongs. Spray the second side lightly with cooking spray.
  8. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 4–6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the crust is deeply golden and crisp. Serve immediately.