This Air Fryer Tilapia with Lemon is tender, flaky, and full of fresh citrus flavor. Made with simple ingredients and ready in just 10 minutes, this easy air fryer tilapia recipe is perfect for healthy weeknight dinners or quick seafood meals. Low-carb, high-protein, and incredibly flavorful, this lemon air fryer tilapia is a must-save recipe for busy nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy ready in minutes
- Family-friendly and mild in flavor
- Budget-friendly seafood option
- Healthy, low-carb, and high-protein
- Easily customizable with herbs and spices
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 4–6 oz each)
- 1½ tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon slices, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the tilapia fillets.
- Place the fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Small mixing bowl
- Silicone brush or spoon
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Tips & Variations
- Extra crispy: Lightly spray the basket with oil before adding fish.
- Flavor boost: Add Italian seasoning, dill, or Cajun spice.
- No fresh lemon? Use bottled lemon juice (about 1½ tablespoons).
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted vegetables or air fryer asparagus
- Pair with rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
- Add a fresh green salad for a light dinner
- Flake leftovers into tacos or wraps
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Tilapia with Lemon is proof that healthy dinners don’t have to be boring. With bright lemon flavor, tender fish, and minimal prep, it’s the perfect recipe to save for busy nights. Make it once, and it’ll quickly become a weeknight staple. Don’t forget to save, print, and share this recipe.
FAQ
Can I freeze air fryer tilapia?
Yes, cooked tilapia can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can season the fish up to 8 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to cook.
What other fish can I use?
Cod, haddock, or flounder work well with the same cooking method.
Do I need to flip the fish?
Flipping helps ensure even cooking, but thinner fillets may cook evenly without flipping.
Can I use frozen tilapia?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning for best results.