Air Fryer Tilapia

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Making tilapia in the air fryer is my secret for an easy meal for busy weeknights. These mild fish fillets cook quickly with minimal effort, and the garlic butter coating makes this a delicious dinner my entire family loves. Works with fresh or frozen tilapia!

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Total Time15

Course: dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Diet: Low Calorie, Low Fat, Low Salt

Servings:

Calories: 471kcal

Author: Sarah Jenkins

Ingredients

For the Tilapia

6 tilapia fillets
6 tablespoon melted butter
2 tsps smoked paprika
2 tsps garlic powder
2 tsps dried thyme or Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon lemon zest (from one lemon)
1 ½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Garlic Lemon Aioli

¾ cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 garlic cloves minced
2 tablespoon lemon juice from about ½ lemon
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until combined.
Pat the tilapia fillets completely dry with paper towels.
Brush both sides of each fillet with the garlic butter seasoning mixture.
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the fillets in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap.
Air fry at 400°F for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. Do not flip.
While the fish cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Serve the tilapia with the garlic lemon aioli, fresh lemon wedges, and fresh thyme, if desired.

Notes

Frozen tilapia: Cook at 400°F for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily and reaches 145°F.
For best results with frozen fish, quick-thaw the fillets in cold water for about 15 minutes first, then pat dry and cook as directed.
Do not flip the fish. Tilapia is delicate and can break apart easily.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 400°F for 3 to 4 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition