- Spices: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil
- Lemon slices (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Keywords:
- crunchy oven fried tilapia
- tilapia recipe
- easy tilapia preparation
- healthy fish dish
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Steps
### How to Make Crunchy Oven-Fried Tilapia: A Delicious Seafood Recipe
#### Introduction
Looking for a healthier yet satisfying way to enjoy oven-fried tilapia? This recipe is perfect for those who love crispy, golden-brown fish without all the calories from deep frying! Follow our detailed steps below and you'll have a delicious, oven-baked tilapia dish that's both tasty and easy to prepare.
#### Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 5 ounces each)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Vegetable oil or cooking spray
- Lemon wedges and chopped parsley for garnish
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
**Preparation Time:** 15 minutes
**Cooking Time:** 20-25 minutes
**Total Time:** 35-40 minutes
1. **Preheat the Oven**
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. **Season and Marinate Tilapia**
- Season each tilapia fillet generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using.
- Place the seasoned fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
3. **Prepare the Breading**
- In another shallow bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. **Bread the Fillets**
- Dredge each fillet in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
- Shake off excess flour before placing on a wire rack or clean kitchen towel to prevent overcrowding during cooking.
5. **Cooking Process**
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes, just enough to be hot but not smoking.
- Using tongs or a spatula, carefully place the breaded fillets into the hot skillet and cook each side until golden-brown and crispy (about 1-2 minutes per side).
6. **Bake the Fish**
- Carefully transfer the cooked fillets to the prepared baking sheet. If you have extra cooking spray or a small brush, lightly coat both sides of the tilapia for added crispiness.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
7. **Serve**
- Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and chopped parsley for added freshness and flavor.
#### Tips
- For an extra crispy texture, you can briefly fry the fillets in hot oil until golden, then finish them off in the oven to achieve a balanced taste and texture.
- Serve this dish alongside your favorite sides like steamed vegetables or a simple salad. Enjoy!
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly baked, crunchy oven-fried tilapia that’s sure to be a hit at any meal!