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Crispy Parmesan Crusted Tilapia

crispy parmesan crusted tilapia - featured image
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A quick and easy recipe for tilapia fillets coated in a crunchy Parmesan and herb crust, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 skinless, boneless tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces / 170 grams each)
  • ¾ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (plain or lightly salted)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Zest of 1 small lemon
  • ½ teaspoon salt, divided
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg, beaten

Instructions

  1. Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Lightly season both sides with ¼ teaspoon salt and a pinch of black pepper.
  2. In a shallow bowl, combine grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, garlic powder, lemon zest, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix well.
  3. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with the Parmesan-herb mixture.
  4. Dredge each fillet lightly in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten egg, letting the extra drip off. Press firmly into the Parmesan-herb mixture, coating each side evenly.
  5. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan until shimmering but not smoking. Place fillets in the pan and cook about 4-5 minutes per side until golden crust forms and fish flakes easily.
  6. Check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove from pan and let rest briefly on a warm plate before serving.

Notes

Patting the fish dry is essential for a crispy crust. Use the three-step dredging method (flour, egg, crust) to help the coating stick. Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the Parmesan. For gluten-free, substitute panko with almond flour or gluten-free crackers. Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat to maintain crispness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: tilapia, crispy fish, Parmesan crust, easy fish recipe, herb crusted tilapia, quick dinner, panko breadcrumbs, healthy fish

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/crispy-parmesan-crusted-tilapia-recipe-easy-herb-infused-crunch-guide/