Description
This Fast and Easy Parmesan Crusted Tilapia recipe features tender tilapia filets coated in a flavorful blend of panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning, then baked to a crispy golden perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish combines a zesty lime marinade with a crunchy crust for a deliciously light and satisfying meal.
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to crisp the crust while cooking the fish evenly.
- Prepare Breading Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the breading.
- Marinate Tilapia: Pour the fresh lime juice into a second shallow dish. Dip each tilapia filet into the lime juice, coating both sides to add a tangy flavor and help the breading adhere. Season with additional salt and pepper.
- Bread the Filets: After marinating, dredge each lime-coated filet in the breading mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated with the parmesan and breadcrumb blend.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the breaded fillets onto a foil-lined and greased baking sheet to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup. Drizzle olive oil evenly over the top of each filet to promote browning and crispiness during baking.
- Bake the Tilapia: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the tilapia for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
- If fresh parsley is unavailable, dried parsley can be substituted, but use about 1 tablespoon to maintain flavor intensity.
- Make sure to pat the tilapia dry before starting to ensure the breading sticks properly.
- This recipe can be doubled or halved easily depending on servings needed.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tilapia filet (approximately 4 oz)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
