Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Quick and easy air fryer tilapia fillets with a crispy spiced crust, ready in about 15 minutes for a healthy and flavorful meal.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each), pat dry with paper towels
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. If using frozen tilapia, thaw completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
  3. Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
  4. Lightly brush both sides of each fillet with olive oil (or use an oil sprayer).
  5. Lightly spray or oil the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
  6. Sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over both sides of each fillet.
  7. Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping; cook in batches if needed.
  8. Cook at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway through; check at 8 minutes and continue until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  9. Let the cooked fillets rest briefly before serving.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to avoid soggy fish; cook in batches if necessary., Set timer for 8 minutes initially; check doneness and adjust to avoid overcooking., Customization tips: add cayenne for heat or lemon zest for brightness., Use an oil sprayer for even, light coating of oil., Let fish rest briefly after cooking to allow juices to redistribute., Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days and reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to re-crisp., This recipe works well with other fish types like cod, haddock, or salmon, adjusting cooking time as needed., Recommend removing skin if present as skin requires higher heat and longer cooking.

  • Author: Ashley
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tilapia fillet
  • Calories: 180 calories per serving
  • Fat: ~8 grams per serving
  • Carbohydrates: ~0 grams per serving
  • Protein: ~22 grams per serving