This frozen tilapia air fryer recipe is your answer to a healthy meal on busy weeknights. With a simple seasoning mix and a few minutes, you'll be serving up a delicious meal the whole family will love.
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Need a delicious dinner you can get on the table in less than 30 minutes? I hear ya! I am all about an easy dinner and when it involves a healthy recipe too, then I know I'm in luck.
I love air frying because of the minimal effort. Food cooks quickly with very little mess. This is one of our favorite air fryer recipes because it takes the guesswork out of cooking fish.
This frozen tilapia air fryer recipe makes a tasty dinner, even for those who might think they don't like fish. Tilapia is a mild flavored white fish so whatever seasoning you choose will really stand out.
I kept this meal super healthy with green beans and rice on the side. But there's nothing wrong with something more hearty like this Panera Mac and Cheese recipe.
Love quick seafood recipes? Try my Air Fryer Fish Sticks with Homemade Southern Tartar Sauce next!
Ingredients needed for air fryer tilapia
Scroll to the bottom of the post for exact amounts and a printable recipe card.
Frozen tilapia filets - I used frozen filets that are individually wrapped. They were 6 ounces each.
Cooking spray - I used an avocado oil spray because I like the neutral flavor and the ease of using a spray can. Olive oil spray is also great. You can a couple teaspoons of oil too, just rub or brush it on.
Seasoning - I made a simple seasoning with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Fresh lemon wedges - a squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a classic touch and bright flavor.
Directions to make frozen tilapia in an air fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees F.
Mix seasonings together in a small bowl. Set aside.
Spray or coat fish with oil. Season tilapia evenly on both sides of the fish.
Spray air fryer basket with oil or non-stick cooking spray. Place the seasoned tilapia filets in the basket.
Air fry tilapia for about 8 to 10 minutes. Fish is done when it reaches 145 degrees F or can be flaked easily with a fork.
If cooking more than 2 filets, cook in batches.
Tips for success
I did preheat the air fryer for this recipe.
I didn't flip the tilapia over since the filets were quite thin.
Your cooking time might vary depending on the size of your filets. A meat thermometer can help determine the internal temperature so you'll know when the fish is cooked through.
Do your best to lay the fish in a single layer. If the edges are overlapping a little bit, it should be fine.
Seasonings to try with frozen tilapia made in the air fryer
How to store
Store leftover fish in an airtight container for up to two days.
For best results, reheat in the microwave, covered, at reduced power to avoid fish from getting too dry.
Can I use fresh tilapia filets in the air fryer?
Yes, fresh fish can also be made in the air fryer. Follow the directions but reduce the cook time by a couple minutes. When the fish can easily be flaked with a fork, it's ready!
Side dishes to serve with tilapia
More air fryer recipes
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Frozen Tilapia Air Fryer Recipe
Ingredients
For seasoning mixture:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For fish:
- cooking spray or enough oil to coat fish
- 2 (6 oz) frozen tilapia filtes, unthawed
- lemon wedges or slices
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees F.
- Mix seasonings together in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Spray or coat fish with oil. Season tilapia evenly on both sides.
- Spray air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Place the seasoned tilapia filets in the basket.
- Air fry tilapia for about 8 to 10 minutes. Fish is done when it reaches 145 degrees F or can be flaked easily with a fork.
Notes
- I didn't flip the tilapia over since the filets were quite thin.
- Your cooking time might vary depending on the size of your filets.
- A meat thermometer can help determine the internal temperature so you'll know when the fish is cooked through.
- Do your best to lay the fish in a single layer. If the edges are overlapping a little bit, it should be fine.
The Taste tester
We love tilapia, and this air fryer recipe is perfect for cooking the fish right every time. The green beans and rice are the perfect compliments to the main course.
Nikole Berg
Gotta try it!