Ingredients:

  • 4 (6 oz / 170g) tilapia fillets, patted dry
  • 1 tsp (5g) salt
  • ½ tsp (3g) black pepper
  • ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 large (110g) eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup (60g) Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp (3g) garlic powder
  • 1 tsp (3g) paprika
  • ½ tsp (1g) onion powder
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions:

  1. Use paper towels to press firmly on both sides of the tilapia fillets to remove excess moisture.
  2. Lightly sprinkle salt and black pepper over both sides of each fillet.
  3. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with Panko mixed with garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder.
  4. Dredge each fillet in flour (shaking off excess), dip into the egg (letting excess drip), and press firmly into the Panko until fully coated.
  5. Let the breaded fillets rest on a plate for 2 minutes to allow the crust to set.
  6. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray the basket with oil.
  7. Place fillets in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not touch.
  8. Spray the tops of the fillets generously with olive oil.
  9. Air fry for 4 minutes, then carefully flip the fillets with tongs and spray the other side with oil.
  10. Cook for another 3–5 minutes until the crust is mahogany-colored and the fish flakes easily with a fork.