Description
This Fast and Easy Parmesan Crusted Tilapia recipe offers a crispy, flavorful seafood dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The tilapia filets are coated with a zesty mixture of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning, then baked to golden perfection. The lime juice adds a fresh citrusy kick, making this meal both light and satisfying.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Fish and Marinade
- 4 tilapia filets (thawed and patted dry)
- Juice of one lime
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
Breading Mixture
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
Finishing
- 2 tbsp olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the tilapia with a crispy crust.
- Prepare the Breading Mixture: In a shallow dish, thoroughly combine the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, chopped parsley, salt, and freshly ground pepper. This mixture will form the flavorful crust on the tilapia.
- Marinate the Fish: In a separate shallow dish, pour the lime juice. Dip each tilapia filet into the lime juice, coating both sides. This adds a fresh citrus flavor and helps the breading adhere.
- Dredge the Tilapia: Season the lime-coated filets with salt and pepper. Then, place each filet into the breading mixture, pressing gently to ensure both sides are well coated with the parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
- Prepare for Baking: Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Transfer the breaded tilapia filets to the baking sheet, spaced evenly.
- Drizzle and Bake: Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the breaded filets to help them brown beautifully. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the tilapia for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Make sure to pat the tilapia dry before marinating to help the breading stick better.
- Serve immediately with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
