Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
Light and healthy: Low in calories and packed with protein.
Crispy texture: Perfectly pan-fried for a golden crust.
Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces.
Minimal ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Tilapia fillets
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder
Paprika
All-purpose flour or cornmeal
Olive oil or vegetable oil
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Season fish: Pat tilapia fillets dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Coat fillets: Lightly dredge each fillet in flour or cornmeal, shaking off excess.
Heat oil: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Cook fish: Add fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve: Transfer to plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Herb crust: Mix herbs like thyme or oregano into the flour coating.
Spicy version: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to seasoning.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour or almond flour for dredging.
Butter finish: Add a pat of butter to the pan for richer flavor.
Sauce pairing: Serve with tartar sauce, garlic butter, or salsa.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store cooked fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain crispiness; avoid microwave if possible.
Best eaten fresh: Pan-fried fish tastes best right after cooking.

FAQs

Can I bake instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes for a lighter option.

How do I prevent fish from sticking?

Ensure the pan and oil are hot before adding fish.

Can I use frozen tilapia?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Is tilapia mild in flavor?

Yes, it has a mild, slightly sweet flavor.

How do I know when fish is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and be opaque.

Can I use other fish?

Yes, cod, catfish, or snapper work well.

Should I remove skin?

Tilapia is often sold skinless but you can leave skin on if desired.

How thick should fillets be?

About 1/2 to 1 inch thick for even cooking.

Can I marinate the fish?

Yes, marinate briefly with lemon juice and herbs for extra flavor.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, mild flavors and crispy texture appeal to children.

Conclusion

Pan Fried Tilapia is a quick, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy fresh fish with minimal effort. Its crispy coating and tender flesh make it a versatile and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.