18 Crispy Breaded Tilapia Recipes for Every Occasion

Carmen Eldridge

April 10, 2025

Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make fish recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than tilapia! This mild-flavored fish pairs perfectly with a variety of flavors and textures, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. From classic breaded and fried to innovative twists like beer-battered tacos and Mediterranean-style seasoning, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 18 crispy breaded tilapia recipes.

Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. With a range of flavors and textures, you’ll find the perfect combination to suit your taste buds. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and indulge in the crispy goodness that only breaded tilapia can offer!

Classic Breaded Tilapia with Lemon Butter Sauce

Classic Breaded Tilapia with Lemon Butter Sauce
This recipe yields a crispy and flavorful breaded tilapia dish, served with a bright and tangy lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

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 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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 fillet in the flour mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat melted butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add coated tilapia fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until fish is cooked through.
6. While the tilapia is baking, combine lemon juice, garlic, and chopped parsley (if using) in a small saucepan over low heat.
7. Serve the breaded tilapia with the warm lemon butter sauce spooned on top.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Spicy Cajun Breaded Tilapia

Spicy Cajun Breaded Tilapia
Add a spicy kick to your seafood with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the taste of cajun seasoning, crispy breading, and tender tilapia.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each tilapia fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Dredge coated fish in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry breaded tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Panko-Crusted Tilapia with Garlic Aioli

Panko-Crusted Tilapia with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with this crispy and flavorful tilapia recipe, paired with a tangy garlic aioli for dipping.

Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Garlic Aioli:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 3 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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. Meanwhile, combine garlic, mayonnaise, and lemon juice in a bowl.
7. Serve tilapia hot with Garlic Aioli for dipping.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Parmesan Herb Breaded Tilapia

Parmesan Herb Breaded Tilapia
Elevate your seafood game with this crispy and flavorful Parmesan herb breaded tilapia recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– 1 tsp dried dill weed
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, dill weed, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Serve hot and enjoy!

Lemon Pepper Breaded Tilapia

Lemon Pepper Breaded Tilapia
This recipe combines the bright flavors of lemon and pepper with the delicate taste of tilapia, creating a dish that’s both moist and crispy. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Crispy Beer-Battered Tilapia Tacos

Crispy Beer-Battered Tilapia Tacos
Get ready to elevate your taco game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the crispiest beer-battered tilapia with fresh taco fixings.

Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup pilsner beer, chilled
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Taco shells, lime wedges, cilantro, and your favorite taco toppings

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
3. Gradually add beer while whisking until a smooth batter forms.
4. Dredge tilapia fillets in the batter, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Fry battered tilapia for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with your favorite taco fixings.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Cornmeal-Crusted Tilapia with Mango Salsa

Cornmeal-Crusted Tilapia with Mango Salsa
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional fish, this recipe combines the crunch of cornmeal-crusted tilapia with the sweetness of mango salsa. Perfect for a light and delicious meal or as an appetizer for your next gathering.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
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. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl.
7. Serve tilapia with mango salsa spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Garlic Butter Breaded Tilapia

Garlic Butter Breaded Tilapia
This recipe combines the tender flaky fish of tilapia with the savory flavors of garlic and butter, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb coating. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
3. Place tilapia fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
5. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese over the fish, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Air Fryer Breaded Tilapia

Air Fryer Breaded Tilapia
Air Fryer Breaded Tilapia Recipe

A crispy and flavorful take on traditional tilapia

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each tilapia fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the breaded tilapia in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each fillet.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time:

– 8-10 minutes

Tips:
– Pat dry the tilapia fillets before breading to ensure even coating.
– For extra crispiness, increase cooking time by 1-2 minutes.

Coconut Breaded Tilapia with Sweet Chili Sauce

Coconut Breaded Tilapia with Sweet Chili Sauce
Experience the perfect blend of crispy texture and sweet heat with this mouth-watering Coconut Breaded Tilapia recipe, served with a tangy Sweet Chili Sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cups shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, shredded coconut, sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the melted butter, then coat with the coconut breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with any remaining butter.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
6. Serve with Sweet Chili Sauce for dipping.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Mediterranean-Style Breaded Tilapia

Mediterranean-Style Breaded Tilapia
A flavorful and crispy fish dish inspired by the Mediterranean region, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

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

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Old Bay Seasoned Breaded Tilapia

Old Bay Seasoned Breaded Tilapia
Elevate your seafood game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of tilapia with the bold flavors of Old Bay seasoning.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp Old Bay seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 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, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add breaded tilapia and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Breaded Tilapia Sandwich with Tartar Sauce

Breaded Tilapia Sandwich with Tartar Sauce
Elevate your lunch game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the tender taste of tilapia with the crunch of breading and the tanginess of tartar sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry breaded tilapia for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Assemble sandwiches with fried tilapia, tartar sauce, and your favorite toppings.

Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes

Crunchy Almond-Crusted Tilapia

Crunchy Almond-Crusted Tilapia
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with a crunchy almond crust, creating a unique and delicious meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup almonds
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together almonds and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.
4. Dip each fillet in the almond-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with additional almonds if desired.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Breaded Tilapia Nuggets with Honey Mustard Dip

Breaded Tilapia Nuggets with Honey Mustard Dip
Enjoy a flavorful and satisfying snack or meal with this easy-to-make recipe for breaded tilapia nuggets, paired with a tangy honey mustard dip.

Ingredients:

For the Tilapia Nuggets:

– 1 pound tilapia fillets, cut into small nugget-sized pieces
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Honey Mustard Dip:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and lemon zest.
3. Dip each tilapia piece into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. For the dip, combine mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, and parsley in a bowl.
8. Serve the breaded tilapia nuggets with the honey mustard dip.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Smoky Paprika Breaded Tilapia

Smoky Paprika Breaded Tilapia
Elevate your seafood game with this crispy and flavorful Smoky Paprika Breaded Tilapia recipe. A perfect blend of smoky paprika, garlic, and breadcrumbs creates a mouthwatering crust on the tender tilapia fillets.

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add breaded tilapia fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Transfer the tilapia to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Breaded Tilapia with Dill Yogurt Sauce

Breaded Tilapia with Dill Yogurt Sauce
A refreshing twist on traditional tilapia, this recipe combines crispy breading with a tangy and creamy dill yogurt sauce.

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 olive oil
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon juice

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 into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Dip the floured fillets into the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded tilapia and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, dill, and lemon juice.
8. Serve the breaded tilapia with the dill yogurt sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Gluten-Free Breaded Tilapia with Herb Seasoning

Gluten-Free Breaded Tilapia with Herb Seasoning
A flavorful and crispy tilapia recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
  • 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating 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 and crispy.
  6. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in the crispy, golden goodness of breaded tilapia! This article features 18 mouth-watering recipes for every occasion, from classic and simple to spicy and adventurous. From lemon butter sauce to mango salsa, sweet chili sauce to honey mustard dip, there’s a breading technique and flavor combination to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something more exotic, these crispy breaded tilapia recipes are sure to satisfy.

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