Here’s a simple and delicious Pan Fried Tilapia recipe that’s quick and perfect for a light meal:
Pan Fried Tilapia
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Coat the Tilapia:
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to get a crispy crust when frying.
- Dredge the tilapia fillets in the flour mixture, pressing gently to coat both sides. Shake off any excess flour.
- Heat the Pan:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the tilapia fillets to the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook the Tilapia:
- Cook the fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (the fish should flake easily with a fork).
- Finish with Lemon:
- Once cooked, remove the tilapia from the skillet and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Tips
- For extra crunch: Add a tablespoon of cornmeal to the flour mixture.
- Add flavor: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or dried herbs like thyme or oregano to the coating for extra flavor.
- Side dish ideas: Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
This pan-fried tilapia is light, crispy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect dish for any weeknight!