Air Fry Tilapia Recipe

I always struggle to find a healthy dinner idea that feels special but takes less than 15 minutes to make. This **air fry tilapia recipe** delivers on both counts, resulting in perfectly flaky fish with a crispy-creamy crust. The air fryer works magic on lean tilapia fillets, transforming them from simple to sublime in just minutes. We’re elevating a basic fillet with a rich, creamy, and zesty Mediterranean-inspired feta and herb glaze that’s ready in minutes. It’s a fast, family-friendly meal perfect for a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

• Tilapia Fillets (4 fillets, approx. 600 g / 1.3 lb): Ensure fillets are fresh or fully thawed. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp, non-soggy texture in the air fryer. If using frozen, thaw overnight or follow package instructions to ensure they are completely defrosted before seasoning.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons / 30 ml, divided): Used for both seasoning the fish and lightly greasing the air fryer basket. Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for maximum flavor.
• Seasoning Blend:
  • Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon / 2.5 g): Provides an aromatic foundation for the fish seasoning.
  • Onion Powder (1/4 teaspoon / 1.25 g): Adds depth to the blend without overpowering the delicate flavor of the tilapia.
  • Smoked Paprika (1/4 teaspoon / 1.25 g): The secret ingredient for adding warmth and a hint of smoky flavor. Use regular sweet paprika if smoked paprika is unavailable.
  • Fine Sea Salt (1/2 teaspoon / 3 g) & Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon / 1 g): Essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the **tilapia**. Adjust to taste based on personal preference.
• For the Creamy Herb & Feta Glaze:
  • Crumbled Feta Cheese (100 g / 3.5 oz): Choose a high-quality feta for the best texture and tangy flavor. Ensure it contains microbial rennet if following a vegetarian diet.
  • Plain Full-Fat Greek Yogurt (2 tablespoons / 30 ml): This adds creaminess and tang to help bind the glaze without making it too heavy. I always have this on hand for quick sauces, but sour cream also works in a pinch.
  • Fresh Dill (2 tablespoons / 10 g) & Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon / 5 g): Do not substitute with dried herbs here; fresh herbs are crucial for the bright, vibrant flavor.
  • Lemon Zest (1/2 teaspoon / 2 g): Provides a bright citrus note that cuts through the richness of the feta and yogurt.
• Lemon Wedges (for serving): Fresh lemon juice squeezed over the finished fish enhances the Mediterranean flavor profile.

Instructions

1. Prep the Tilapia Fillets and Seasoning: Pat the tilapia fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp exterior. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the tilapia fillets, making sure each piece is fully coated.
2. Prepare the Creamy Herb & Feta Glaze: In a separate small bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, Greek yogurt, finely chopped fresh dill, chopped fresh parsley, lemon zest, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix well with a fork until a thick, spreadable paste forms; the consistency should be easy to spoon onto the fish without running off during cooking.
3. Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 5 minutes. Lightly brush the air fryer basket with the remaining 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil, or use a non-aerosol cooking spray. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the fish after cooking.
4. Place Fillets and Apply Glaze: Place the seasoned **tilapia fillets** in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping. Spoon and gently spread an even layer of the Creamy Herb & Feta Glaze over the top surface of each fillet. Do not completely cover the sides of the fish, as this helps maintain a nice air circulation and prevents steaming.
5. Air Fry and Check for Doneness: Air fry for 8-12 minutes, or until the **tilapia** is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The feta glaze should be lightly golden-brown and bubbly on top when done. Cooking time may vary based on fillet thickness and air fryer model; thicker fillets will require longer cooking times. Check for doneness at the 8-minute mark to avoid overcooking this lean fish.
6. Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the fillets from the air fryer, being cautious of hot steam. Allow them to rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute. Garnish with extra fresh dill and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges. This **air fry tilapia recipe** is best served right away for the ultimate flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Tilapia

The creamy feta glaze on the tilapia pairs wonderfully with light, fresh, and high-protein side dishes. To keep this a truly fast meal, opt for sides that cook quickly in the oven or air fryer while the fish is cooking. A simple air fry tilapia recipe like this one needs minimal fuss for the accompanying dishes.

• Roasted Vegetables: Quick sides like air fryer asparagus, broccolini, or a simple Greek salad pair perfectly with the Mediterranean flavors.
• Simple Rice Pilaf: A lemon-herb rice pilaf provides a light, absorbent base for the glaze.
• Quinoa or Couscous Salad: For a high-protein, fast option, make a large batch of quinoa or couscous with chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

Pro Tips for Perfectly Cooked Tilapia (No Dry Fish!)

These simple tricks ensure your tilapia fillets cook perfectly every time in the air fryer, keeping them tender and moist without drying out. A good air fry tilapia recipe relies on these small details.

• Patting Dry is Crucial: This step removes excess surface moisture, which helps the fish to crisp up slightly on the edges instead of steaming in the air fryer. I always use a few extra paper towels here; it makes a big difference in texture.
• Avoid Overlapping Fillets: For even cooking, ensure there’s enough space between each fillet for hot air to circulate. Cook in batches if necessary for a larger quantity.
• Don’t Overcook: Tilapia is a lean fish and cooks quickly. Use a fork to test doneness; it should flake easily and be completely opaque when finished. This applies to any air fry tilapia recipe.

FAQs

How long does tilapia take in the air fryer?

At 200°C (400°F), tilapia fillets typically take 8-12 minutes. Thinner fillets (1/2 inch thick) may be closer to 8 minutes, while thicker fillets (3/4 to 1 inch thick) will be closer to 12 minutes.

Can I use frozen tilapia fillets?

Yes, but you must completely thaw them first. Place frozen fillets in the refrigerator overnight or run under cold water for faster thawing. Pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning to ensure proper texture and to get the most out of this air fry tilapia recipe.

How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly grease the air fryer basket with a non-aerosol cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Parchment paper air fryer liners designed for your specific air fryer model also work great for easy cleanup and ensure the delicate fish stays intact when removing it.

Can I substitute other types of fish?

Yes, this method works well with other mild white fish varieties like cod, haddock, or flounder. Adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the fillet; thicker fish like cod will need a few extra minutes for this air fry tilapia method.

Can I prepare the creamy feta glaze ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely. The glaze can be mixed up to 24 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes assembly even faster on a busy weeknight and is a great strategy for meal prep recipes.

Is air-fried tilapia healthy?

Yes, tilapia is a lean protein source that is high in protein. Air frying uses very little oil compared to traditional frying methods, making this a much healthier option for a quick, high-protein family dinner. The tilapia itself is naturally low-carb and perfectly suited for an air fry preparation.

Conclusion

This easy air fry tilapia recipe proves that healthy, flavorful dinners don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming; it’s a perfect addition to your weekly rotation. If you loved this quick, family-friendly meal, be sure to save this recipe on Pinterest for later.

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