Air Fryer Tilapia (Ready in 7 Minutes)

Name: Air Fryer Tilapia
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Ingredients: 24 ounces tilapia filets ((4-6 ounces each pieces)); 1 tablespoon avocado oil; 2 teaspoons paprika; ½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 1 lemon cut into quarters; 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.

Our Air Fryer Tilapia is the easiest way to get crispy, flaky fish on your table in under 10 minutes—no breading required! This quick recipe is perfect for busy nights, picky eaters, or anyone craving a healthy, low-carb seafood dinner.

Seasoned tilapia fillets cooked in an air fryer basket, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Tilapia

Low-calorie cooking: Tilapia is a lean, protein-packed fish that’s naturally low in calories. Air frying gives it a perfectly crispy texture without needing extra oil or fat.
Healthy eating at home: This simple recipe fits into keto, low-carb, and gluten-free lifestyles. No breading needed (unless you crave a crunchy coating).
Quick and easy: From prep to plate in under 10 minutes, this tilapia in air fryer recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time but want to please the whole family.
Minimal oil, minimal mess: Air frying keeps cleanup easy and your kitchen grease-free, all while delivering that golden, crispy finish you’d expect from pan-frying.

Ingredients you’ll Need

Tilapia fillets: Cod or haddock can be used as well. See cooking time adjustments below.
Avocado oil: Avocado oil is ideal because it has a high smoke point and neutral flavor. You can also use olive oil, grapeseed oil, or even spray oil as long as it’s air fryer safe (avoid aerosol sprays that can damage the coating).
Paprika
Kosher salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Lemon
Fresh parsley

See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.

Frequently ASked Questions

Can I cook frozen tilapia in the air fryer without thawing?

Yes! You can cook frozen tilapia directly in the air fryer. Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

What Temperature Should Tilapia Be Cooked to in the Air Fryer?

Tilapia should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F. It will be opaque and flake easily when it’s ready.

How Do I Keep Tilapia from Drying Out in the Air Fryer?

Brush with oil, don’t overcook, and reheat gently. A quick spray of oil before reheating helps retain moisture.

Can I use cod or another white fish instead of tilapia?

Yes! Cod or haddock are all great substitutes for tilapia. Just adjust the cook time slightly based on thickness—thicker fillets may need an extra 1–2 minutes in the air fryer.

Golden, seasoned tilapia fillet being lifted with a wooden spatula, garnished with parsley and served with lemon.

How to Make Air Fryer Tilapia

Brush: Pat dry the tilapia pieces with a paper towel then brush both sides with avocado oil. Set aside.
Season: Sprinkle both sides of the fish fillets with seasoning and place in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook: Air fry at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 7 to 10 minutes or until flaky and tender.
Serve: Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley. Serve and enjoy!

Brush tilapia with avocado oil, season both sides, then air fry at 400°F for 7–10 minutes until flaky.

How Long to Cook Tilapia in the Air Fryer

For Fresh Tilapia: Thin fillets (about 1/2 inch thick) take 7–8 minutes at 400°F, while thicker fillets (around 1 inch) will need 9–10 minutes for the best results.
For Frozen Tilapia: You can cook frozen tilapia directly in the air fryer at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. There’s no need to thaw the fish first.
For Breaded Tilapia: Whether fresh or frozen, breaded tilapia fillets will take about 10–12 minutes at 400°F. If cooking from frozen, you may need to add an extra 1–2 minutes to ensure the coating crisps up perfectly.

Four air-fried tilapia fillets on parchment-lined cutting board, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges, surrounded by fresh herbs and citrus.

Tips for the Perfect Air Fried Tilapia

Preheat the air fryer first: Preheating helps the fish cook evenly and enhances the crispy texture.
Flip the fish halfway through: Flip the fillets midway through cooking to brown both sides and prevent sticking.
Cook in batches: If you’re cooking multiple pieces, work in batches to maintain airflow and avoid soggy fish.
Add a crispy coating: For a crunchy upgrade, coat tilapia in a mix of grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Lightly press the coating onto the fillets after brushing with oil or dipping in beaten eggs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve air-fried tilapia with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of parsley, and a side of tartar sauce. For a light, low-carb meal, pair it with steamed broccoli, air-fried asparagus, cauliflower rice, or our Lemon Parmesan Salad.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the leftover tilapia in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Place parchment between fillets to prevent sticking.
Reheat without drying out: To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven or microwave, but a quick spritz of oil before reheating helps maintain moisture and prevents the fish from drying out.

Fork flaking a piece of golden, seasoned air fryer tilapia fillet on parchment paper with lemon slices and parsley garnish.

More Easy Fish Recipes

If you tried this Air Fryer Tilapia Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the 📝 comments below. Thanks for visiting!!!

5 from 1 vote