Frozen Tilapia (Air Fryer)

Cooking frozen tilapia in the air fryer is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a quick and healthy meal. The air fryer creates a crispy exterior and tender interior without the need for excessive oil or lengthy cooking times. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the steps for making perfectly cooked Frozen Tilapia in the Air Fryer. So let’s dive right in and learn how to make this easy and delicious meal!

Dinner in the air fryer is quick and easy, and doesn’t heat up your whole kitchen. Try frozen pot pies, Johnsonville Brats, or even steak (from frozen!), all cooked in the air fryer when you’re short on time.

What can I serve with tilapia?

This air fryer tilapia cooks light and flaky, just like you’d hope, and is perfectly seasoned with just salt, pepper, and a bit of lime for that fresh-from-the-sea flavor. For a complete meal, you can serve your tilapia with:

• Rice Pilaf
• Steak fries
• Green beans or asparagus
• Broccolini
• A pasta salad
• Quinoa
• A light pasta with parmesan

Serve with extra lime and lemon wedges for squeezing.

Why You’ll Love Cooking Tilapia in the Air Fryer

• It’s quick – This tilapia cooks in just 10 minutes in the air fryer.
• You can cook your tilapia from frozen with great results.
• Cleaning up is easy, and you won’t heat up your whole kitchen using the oven or stovetop.
• It’s a healthy method as the fish isn’t fried in oil or butter.
• The air fryer cooks the tilapia to perfection! Light and flaky with that perfectly crisp outside.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds frozen tilapia
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 medium lime

How to Make

STEP ONE: Prep the frozen tilapia. Brush the fish with olive oil. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

STEP TWO: Cook. Turn the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the fish flakes easily. Squeeze fresh lime juice on top and serve hot.

Tips and Recipe Notes:

• Use paper towels to pat down the tilapia before you brush it with oil. This removes excess moisture and helps develop a perfect crisp on the outside.
• Leave room in the air fryer between the fish for more even cooking. Work in batches if necessary.
• Make sure your tilapia reaches 145°F inside. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the thickest part of the fish looks dry and flaky, and not shiny or meaty.
• Try not to overcook tilapia, as it can quickly become dry and rubbery. Check it at 10 minutes, then cook a few minutes longer, if necessary.

How to Store Leftovers

Tilapia will always be best eaten fresh, but leftover tilapia can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

You can also freeze your leftovers for 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then put them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Allow them to thaw in the fridge before enjoying them again.

You can eat your leftovers cold on a salad or sandwich. If you want to reheat them, preheat the air fryer to 350°F and heat for about 5 minutes, or until hot through.

FAQs