Ingredients:

  • 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each, 170g)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (120g; panko for extra crunch)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying, approx. 2 cups or 475ml)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse tilapia fillets under cold water; pat dry with paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  2. In one shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In a third shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
  3. Dredge each tilapia fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip in the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. In a deep skillet, add vegetable oil and heat over medium-high until shimmering (around 350°F/175°C).
  5. Carefully add breaded fillets to the hot oil, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
  6. Remove fried tilapia with tongs and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with wedges of lemon.