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–+ servings
Air Fryer Tilapia

Easy Air Fryer Tilapia with Zesty Lemon Butter Sauce

A quick and nutritious Air Fryer Tilapia recipe with zesty lemon butter sauce, perfect for weekday dinners.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 fillets
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Seafood
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Fish
  • 4 fillets Tilapia Mild-flavored and flaky; can substitute with cod or haddock
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adds a warm smokiness
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Use cayenne for spiciness
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic (ground) For depth of flavor
For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Creates a rich, creamy texture
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Use fresh for best taste
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Freshly squeezed is ideal
  • 2 tablespoons Parsley For freshness; substitute with cilantro if desired

Equipment

  • Air Fryer

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Tilapia
  1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
  2. Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground garlic.
  3. Place the seasoned tilapia fillets in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Spray tops lightly with cooking spray and set the timer for 7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  4. Whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and parsley in a small bowl.
  5. Check if the tilapia is flaky and cooked through. Brush generously with lemon butter sauce and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1filletCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Leftover air fryer tilapia can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cooked tilapia freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 2 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

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