Description
This Fast and Easy Parmesan Crusted Tilapia recipe delivers a deliciously crispy coating with a flavorful blend of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, this dish is a quick and healthy main course ideal for any weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Fish and Marinade
- 4 tilapia filets (thawed and patted dry)
- Juice of one lime
- Salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)
Breading Mixture
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley
Finishing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the tilapia with a crisp crust.
- Prepare Breading Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, chopped parsley, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Mix well to distribute all the flavors evenly.
- Marinate Tilapia: In a second shallow dish, pour the lime juice. Dip each tilapia filet into the lime juice coating both sides. Then season the fish lightly with salt and pepper to enhance flavor before breading.
- Bread the Fish: After marinating, dredge each filet in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated to create the signature crispy crust.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Place the breaded tilapia filets evenly spaced on the sheet.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the coated filets to aid crispiness and enhance flavor during baking.
- Bake the Tilapia: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
- Ensure tilapia filets are thoroughly dried before marinating for better breading adhesion.
- You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a subtle citrus variation.
- Use fresh parsley for the best flavor and vibrant appearance.
- For extra crispiness, place the oven rack in the middle position.
- Check the tilapia doneness at 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
