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Air Fryer Tilapia

This air fryer tilapia is quick, flaky, and full of flavor. An easy high-protein dinner recipe made with simple seasonings and ready in about 12 minutes.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Paper towels

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tilapia fillets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Optional

  • lemon wedges
  • chopped parsley
  • red pepper flakes
  • garlic butter for serving

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the air fryer
    Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  • Prep the tilapia
    Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and brush lightly with olive oil and lemon juice.
  • Season the fillets
    Mix the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, then season the tilapia evenly on both sides.
  • Air fry the tilapia
    Place the fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  • Serve
    Serve immediately with lemon wedges, parsley, or a little garlic butter if desired.

Notes

  • Tilapia cooks quickly, so start checking early.
  • Patting the fillets dry helps the seasoning stick better.
  • Use a spatula if needed to remove the fish gently from the basket.
  • Thin fillets may cook in closer to 6 minutes.
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