18 Crispy Breaded Tilapia Recipes Deliciously Savory

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make seafood recipe? Look no further! Crispy breaded tilapia is a crowd-pleaser that can be seasoned to perfection with a wide range of flavors. From classic garlic parmesan to spicy sriracha, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes to try. Whether you’re in the mood for something tangy and herbaceous or bold and spicy, our collection has something for everyone.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of crispy breaded tilapia and explore the many ways you can elevate this humble fish. From classic breading methods to innovative twists and flavor combinations, we’ll provide you with the inspiration and guidance you need to create a dish that’s sure to impress.

Stay tuned for our top 18 recipes for crispy breaded tilapia, each one more delicious than the last!

Garlic Parmesan Breaded Tilapia

This recipe combines the crispy texture of breaded fish with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this tasty dish in no time.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, garlic, and parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the beaten egg and then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Lemon Herb Breaded Tilapia

This refreshing take on breaded tilapia adds a burst of citrus and herbs to create a flavorful and moist dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated fillets on prepared baking sheet.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice and dot with vegetable oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Cajun Spiced Breaded Tilapia

Add a spicy kick to your tilapia with this Cajun-inspired recipe. Crispy breading and bold spices make for a flavorful fish dish that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Dip the floured tilapia into the melted butter, then coat in panko breadcrumbs.
5. Place breaded tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Panko Crusted Breaded Tilapia

A flavorful and crispy tilapia dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe uses Panko breadcrumbs to add texture and crunch, while the tilapia remains moist and tender.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the breaded tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each filet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and flaky.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Spicy Sriracha Breaded Tilapia

Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and spicy recipe that combines the crispiness of breading with the boldness of sriracha. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the flour mixture, then in the beaten egg, and finally in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry breaded tilapia for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with sriracha sauce and bake for an additional 4-6 minutes, or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes

Cheesy Breaded Tilapia Bake

Elevate your seafood game with this indulgent yet effortless tilapia bake, smothered in a crispy breadcrumb and melted cheese mixture. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in beaten eggs, then coat in panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place coated tilapia on prepared baking sheet.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet.
6. Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese mixture evenly among the fish.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and breadcrumbs golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Herbed Breaded Tilapia with Dill

A refreshing twist on traditional breaded fish, this recipe combines the flavors of fresh dill and herbs with crispy breading for a delightful dinner option. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried dill weed
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, parsley, dill weed, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place breaded fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Coconut Breaded Tilapia with Mango Salsa

Elevate your seafood game with this tropical twist on a classic fish dish. Crispy coconut breading and juicy tilapia pair perfectly with the sweet and tangy mango salsa.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Mango salsa (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, unsweetened shredded coconut, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into beaten egg and then coat with the coconut breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry coated tilapia for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with Mango Salsa (recipe below).

Mango Salsa:

– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir gently. Serve with Coconut Breaded Tilapia.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (includes frying time)

Cornmeal Breaded Tilapia with Chipotle Aioli

Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful Cornmeal Breaded Tilapia paired with a spicy Chipotle Aioli. A perfect combination of crispy and tender, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chipotle Aioli ingredients:
+ 1 ripe avocado, mashed
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
+ 1 tsp lemon juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the eggs, then coat in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry breaded tilapia for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. Transfer the tilapia to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix Chipotle Aioli ingredients together in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve the cornmeal breaded tilapia with Chipotle Aioli on top.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Zesty Lime Breaded Tilapia

This recipe combines the tender flaky fish with a zesty lime flavor and crunchy breading, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp lime zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, lime zest, and garlic powder.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each fillet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Mediterranean Breaded Tilapia with Olives

Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and crispy tilapia dish, bursting with Mediterranean flair. This recipe is a perfect blend of tender fish, crunchy breadcrumbs, and savory olives.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, chopped olives, garlic, and oregano.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges (optional).

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Parmesan Panko Breaded Tilapia

A delicious twist on traditional breaded fish, this recipe adds the savory flavor of Parmesan cheese and the crunch of Panko breadcrumbs to tender tilapia. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, beat the egg and add lemon juice.
4. Dip each tilapia fillet into the egg mixture, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and crispy.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Sweet Chili Breaded Tilapia

Experience the perfect blend of sweet and spicy with this mouthwatering Sweet Chili Breaded Tilapia recipe. Crispy breaded tilapia meets a sweet and tangy chili sauce for a flavor combination that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the flour mixture, then buttermilk, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry breaded tilapia for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. In a small bowl, mix together sweet chili sauce and granulated sugar.
7. Serve fried tilapia with the sweet chili sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Breaded Tilapia Tacos with Avocado Crema

Elevate your taco game with this crispy and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of tilapia with the creaminess of avocado crema.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and queso fresco (optional)

Avocado Crema:

– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp lime juice
– Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and paprika.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by placing cooked tilapia, avocado crema, and desired toppings on each tortilla.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Almond Crusted Breaded Tilapia

A crispy exterior and tender interior make this Almond Crusted Breaded Tilapia a delightful addition to any meal. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp almond flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, almond flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Breaded Tilapia with Garlic Butter Sauce

This crispy breading and savory garlic butter sauce elevate tilapia to a new level of flavor and tenderness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the flour mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the fish, then sprinkle minced garlic.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Crunchy Breaded Tilapia Nuggets

Get ready to enjoy a delicious and crispy take on traditional tilapia with this easy recipe for Crunchy Breaded Tilapia Nuggets. With a crunchy exterior and tender interior, these bite-sized treats are perfect as an appetizer or main course.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets, cut into nugget-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia piece into the flour mixture, then into beaten egg, and finally into panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Breaded Tilapia with Lemon Caper Sauce

A flavorful and refreshing seafood dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the simplicity of breaded tilapia with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon caper sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook breaded tilapia for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and capers. Serve sauce over cooked tilapia.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your seafood game with these 18 crispy breaded tilapia recipes! From classic garlic parmesan and lemon herb to spicy sriracha and coconut-crusted, there’s something for every taste. Try adding a Cajun kick or a Mediterranean twist to your meal. And don’t forget the cheesy bakes and crunchy nuggets – perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.

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