📝 About This Recipe
This dish elevates the humble tilapia fillet into a gourmet experience using the rapid circulation of the air fryer to create a delicate, golden crust while keeping the interior incredibly moist. Infused with bright citrus notes, aromatic garlic, and a blend of earthy Mediterranean herbs, it offers a light yet deeply satisfying protein option. It is the perfect marriage of modern convenience and timeless coastal flavors, making it a sophisticated choice for a quick weeknight dinner.
🥗 Ingredients
The Fish
- 4 pieces Tilapia Fillets (fresh or completely thawed, patted dry)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (extra virgin)
Lemon Herb Rub
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (from about 1 large lemon)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced into a paste)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (for color and a hint of depth)
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
Garnish and Finishing
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 piece Lemon (cut into thin wedges for serving)
- 1 tablespoon Butter (melted, optional for a richer finish)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Remove the tilapia fillets from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
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2
Use paper towels to pat each fillet thoroughly dry on both sides; removing excess moisture is the secret to achieving a beautiful golden exterior in the air fryer.
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3
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for at least 5 minutes to ensure the basket is hot when the fish hits the surface.
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4
In a small mixing bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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5
Stir the herb mixture until it forms a loose, fragrant paste.
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6
Place the fillets on a clean tray and brush both sides of each fish generously with the lemon herb paste.
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7
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with a high-smoke point oil spray (like avocado oil) to prevent sticking.
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8
Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap; work in batches if necessary.
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9
Slide the basket in and air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets.
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10
Halfway through (around the 6-minute mark), check the fish. There is no need to flip tilapia as it is very delicate, but you can rotate the basket for even browning.
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11
The fish is done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
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12
Carefully remove the fillets using a wide flexible spatula to keep them from breaking.
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13
If using, drizzle the optional melted butter over the hot fish for an extra layer of decadence.
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14
Garnish with a shower of fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always pat the fish dry; any surface water will steam the fish rather than sear it. If your fillets are very thin (less than 1/2 inch), check them at the 8-minute mark to avoid overcooking. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb rub. Avoid using aerosol non-stick sprays with soy lecithin as they can damage the air fryer basket coating over time; use an oil mister instead. If using frozen tilapia, ensure it is fully thawed in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a bed of fluffy quinoa or wild rice to soak up the lemon juices. Pair with air-fried asparagus spears or garlicky green beans for a low-carb feast. A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the citrus notes beautifully. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt tartar sauce on the side for a creamy contrast. Serve over a fresh Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese.