Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight that will leave you hooked! Crispy breaded tilapia is a dish that never goes out of style, and we’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes to prove it. From classic combinations to bold twists, these crispy breaded tilapia recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or looking to spice things up with some international flair, our list has got you covered. We’ll take you on a journey through flavors, from the bright citrus notes of lemon butter sauce to the bold spices of cajun seasoning, and even explore some innovative takes like Thai-inspired sweet chili sauce.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of crispy breaded tilapia recipes, exploring different breading options, cooking methods, and flavor combinations that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. So grab a plate and get ready to dive in – your palate is in for a treat!
Classic Breaded Tilapia with Lemon Butter Sauce
A simple yet elegant seafood dish that’s sure to please. Crispy breading and a tangy lemon butter sauce elevate the natural flavor of tilapia.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Dip the floured fillets in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place breaded fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Dot the top of each fillet with softened butter.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
8. While tilapia is baking, combine lemon juice and softened butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
9. Simmer until melted and smooth.
10. Serve tilapia with lemon butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Breaded Tilapia
Experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this spicy cajun breaded tilapia recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the beaten egg and then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry breaded tilapia for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Transfer fried tilapia to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Parmesan Herb Breaded Tilapia
This recipe combines the crispy texture of breaded tilapia with the savory flavors of parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet.
6. Sprinkle whole wheat breadcrumbs evenly over the top of each fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Breaded Tilapia
Experience the perfect blend of crispy breading and tender tilapia with this flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-seasoned or plain)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each fillet into the garlic-butter mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Roll the coated fish in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place breaded tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Panko Breaded Tilapia
Crispy Panko Breaded Tilapia Recipe
A flavorful and crispy tilapia recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon zest, and garlic powder.
3. Season the tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each tilapia fillet in the beaten egg and then coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the breaded tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Pepper Breaded Tilapia
Brighten up your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and crispy tilapia recipe, infused with the tanginess of lemon and the warmth of pepper.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
– 1 tsp paprika
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle lemon juice evenly over the fish.
6. Dot the top of each fillet with olive oil.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Breaded Tilapia
Transform plain tilapia into a flavorful and crispy delight with this simple recipe. The air fryer does all the work, leaving you with a tender and crunchy fish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place the breaded tilapia in the air fryer basket. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top of the fish.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cornmeal Crusted Breaded Tilapia
Transform tilapia into a crispy, flavorful masterpiece with this simple recipe. The cornmeal crust adds a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the beaten egg, then coat in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with melted butter.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Breaded Tilapia Tacos with Avocado Salsa
A twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the flaky goodness of tilapia with a crispy breading and creamy avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa ingredients (see below)
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the breaded tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tilapia and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by placing a piece of tilapia onto a warmed tortilla and topping with Avocado Salsa.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Thai-Inspired Breaded Tilapia with Sweet Chili Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this easy-to-make breaded tilapia recipe, served with a tangy and sweet chili sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce (see below)
Sweet Chili Sauce:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Thai red curry paste, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the breaded tilapia for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer the fried tilapia to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve with Sweet Chili Sauce (see below). Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Breaded Tilapia with Mango Salsa
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional fish recipes, this dish combines the crunch of breaded tilapia with the sweet and tangy flavors of mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with milk and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Serve with breaded tilapia.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gluten-Free Breaded Tilapia
This recipe brings a crispy, gluten-free twist to traditional breaded tilapia, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup gluten-free panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Breaded Tilapia Sandwich with Coleslaw
Elevate your lunch game with this crispy and flavorful sandwich. Pan-seared tilapia fillet, coated in a light batter, is served on a toasted bun with a refreshing coleslaw made from crunchy cabbage and creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (recipe below)
– Lettuce and tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the flour mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of melted butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 coated tilapia fillets; cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a cooked tilapia fillet on each bun, followed by coleslaw and optional lettuce and tomato.
Coleslaw:
– 1 head cabbage, shredded
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes for the tilapia fillets.
Breaded Tilapia with Tartar Sauce
A classic combination of crispy breaded tilapia and tangy tartar sauce makes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Dip the floured tilapia into the melted butter, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
5. Place the breaded tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve with tartar sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Breaded Tilapia with Tzatziki
Mediterranean Breaded Tilapia with Tzatziki Recipe
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this delicious and easy-to-make tilapia dish, topped with a refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add breaded tilapia and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix together yogurt, cucumber, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve breaded tilapia with tzatziki sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Breaded Tilapia with Cilantro Lime Dressing
This refreshing twist on traditional fish sticks combines the crunch of panko breadcrumbs with the brightness of cilantro and lime, creating a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cilantro Lime Dressing (recipe below)
Cilantro Lime Dressing:
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook breaded tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with Cilantro Lime Dressing.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Breaded Tilapia Nuggets with Honey Mustard Dip
Enjoy the perfect combination of crispy and tender with this easy-to-make recipe for breaded tilapia nuggets, served with a sweet and tangy honey mustard dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tilapia fillets, cut into bite-sized nuggets
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Honey mustard dip ingredients (see below)
Honey Mustard Dip:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each tilapia nugget into beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix together honey mustard dip ingredients in a small bowl.
7. Serve breaded tilapia nuggets hot with honey mustard dip.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Breaded Tilapia with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with this crispy and flavorful breaded tilapia, served with a tangy garlic aioli that will have you hooked.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Garlic Aioli (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the flour mixture, then eggs, and finally panko breadcrumbs.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry breaded tilapia for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with Garlic Aioli and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 18 crispy breaded tilapia recipes! From classic lemon butter sauce to spicy Cajun, parmesan herb, garlic butter, and many more, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover how to add a crunchy coating to your tilapia using panko breadcrumbs, cornmeal, or even gluten-free options. Treat yourself to tacos with avocado salsa, Mediterranean-style tzatziki, or satisfy your cravings with honey mustard dip. With these mouthwatering recipes, you’ll never get bored of breaded tilapia again!
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