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A delicious plate of 15-Minute Air Fryer Tilapia: Crispy, Quick & Irresistible

Easy 15-Minute Air Fryer Tilapia: Crispy, Quick & Irresistible

The crispiest, fastest, most foolproof weeknight fish — golden, flaky air fryer tilapia with bold seasoning and restaurant-quality texture in just 15 minutes with zero mess.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Seafood
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 –4 tilapia fillets 6–8 oz each
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • ¼ tsp cajun seasoning or cayenne optional
  • Fresh lemon juice optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
  2. Pat tilapia completely dry with paper towels.
  3. Brush or spray both sides with oil.
  4. Mix seasoning ingredients and sprinkle evenly on both sides.
  5. Place fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  6. Air fry for 8–10 minutes without flipping.
  7. Cook until golden and fish flakes easily with a fork.
  8. Remove and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
  9. Serve hot.

Notes

Dry fish thoroughly for best crisp. Do not overcrowd the basket. Adjust cook time for thinner or thicker fillets.