Description
Quick and easy pan-fried tilapia with a crispy, golden-brown crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers flaky, flavorful fish in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 Tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each), skinless
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or canola oil)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels on both sides.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk.
- Dredge each tilapia fillet in the flour mixture, shake off excess. Dip in the egg wash, let excess drip off. Coat again in the flour mixture, pressing gently. Shake off excess.
- Heat the vegetable oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until butter is melted and oil is shimmering.
- Carefully place the breaded tilapia fillets in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C).
- Remove the cooked tilapia from the skillet and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Patting the tilapia dry is crucial for a crispy crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Medium heat is ideal to prevent burning or soggy fish.
- Tilapia is delicate; don’t overcook it. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Spice it up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breading for a little heat.
- Add Herbs: Mix some dried herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or basil, into the breading for extra flavor.
- Use Different Flour: Try using almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Mix some grated Parmesan cheese into the breading for a cheesy flavor.
- Lemon Pepper Tilapia: Use lemon pepper seasoning instead of salt and pepper for a zesty twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes