fried tilapia fish recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best fried tilapia fish recipe

I love this fried tilapia fish recipe because it’s a staple in our household. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

My family and I have been making this recipe for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether we’re having a big family gathering or just a quiet dinner at home, this recipe is always a hit.

Plus, it’s incredibly healthy, with tilapia being an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. The key to making this recipe successful is using the right technique – you want to make sure the fish is cooked evenly and not overcooked.

This means using a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the perfect temperature, and not overcrowding the pan. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it with a variety of sides, from classic coleslaw to roasted vegetables. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites to make together.

They love watching the fish sizzle in the pan and smelling the aroma of the spices. It’s a great way to spend quality time together as a family while also making a meal that we all enjoy.

Crispy Fried Tilapia

4.8 from 1694 votes

This crispy fried tilapia recipe delivers golden brown fillets with a crunchy exterior and moist, flaky interior. Seasoned with a blend of spices and pan-fried to perfection, it is a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Fish

4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For Coating and Frying

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cornmeal
1 large egg
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
Lemon wedges, for serving

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels.
2Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using.
3In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour and cornmeal.
4In another shallow dish, beat the egg with the milk until smooth.
5Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and reaches 350°F.
6While the oil heats, dip each seasoned fillet first into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then coat thoroughly with the flour-cornmeal mixture.
7Carefully place two fillets into the hot oil.
8Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until the coating is deep golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
9Adjust heat if browning too quickly.
10Transfer the cooked fillets to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
11Repeat with the remaining fillets.
12Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Paper towels
Shallow dishes
Tongs
Instant-read thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 16g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For extra crispiness, let the coated fillets rest on a wire rack for 5 minutes before frying. Serve with tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Watch Video Of How Crispy Fried Tilapia Works

This fried tilapia fish recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just want a quick and easy meal at home.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it reheats – simply place the leftovers in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

You can also store leftover fried tilapia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Fried Tilapia

Q: What type of oil should I use for frying?

For frying tilapia, I recommend using a neutral-tasting oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut or avocado oil.

Q: How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?

Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches between 350°F and 375°F – this will help you achieve a crispy exterior without overcooking the fish.

Q: Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

While tilapia works beautifully for this recipe, you can also use other mild-flavored fish like cod or haddock.

Q: What sides go well with fried tilapia?

Serve your fried tilapia with classic coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or even some crusty bread for dipping in tartar sauce.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to fry the fish just before serving for optimal results.

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