Ingredients:

  • 4 (6 oz) Tilapia fillets
  • 2 tbsp Avocado oil
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion powder
  • 1.5 tsp Lemon Pepper seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp Sea salt

Instructions:

  1. Use paper towels to aggressively pat each tilapia fillet dry on both sides. Removing surface moisture is essential to prevent steaming and ensure a crispy crust.
  2. Lightly brush both sides of each fillet with avocado oil or apply a consistent coating of high-smoke-point oil spray to act as a binder.
  3. In a shallow breading bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper, and sea salt.
  4. Using the dry-press technique, firmly press each oiled fillet into the breading mixture until evenly coated on all sides.
  5. Place the fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the crust is golden-brown.
  6. Serve immediately with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.