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fried Tilapia
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Easy Crispy Pan Fried Tilapia Recipe

This Creole pan-fried tilapia brings rich, zesty flavor to your table with classic seasonings and a golden crust—ready in just 20 minutes!
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 471kcal
Author Mirlene

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 14 tilapia fillets; washed and patted dry -frozen or fresh
  • 1 cup Neutral Oil; vegetable oil, peanut oil, etc.
  • 1 tsp. kosher salt
  • juice from half lemon

For the breading

  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup cornstarch
  • ⅓ cup cornmeal
  • 1 tbsp. old bay seasoning
  • 1 tsp. salt; I used Kosher salt

Instructions

  • Prepare the fish: Wash and pat dry the fish thoroughly. Place the fish in a tray, then squeeze the lemon all over the fish, then season with the salt on both sides. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the breading.
    tilapia skillet on tray
  • Prepare the breading: In a medium bowl, prepare the breading by adding all the ingredients together. Mix well to combined.
    breading mixture for tilapia
  • Bread the fish on both sides.
    breading tilapia
  • Prepare for frying: In a cast-iron skillet, add 1 cup of oil. Allow the oil to come to temperature between 330℉ but no more than 350℉.
    Then fry the fish 2 at a time.
    fried breaded tilapia in cast iron skillet
  • Remove and place on a wire rack or paper toweled plate.
    Serve and enjoy.
    frying tilapia in cast iron skillet

Notes

✅ How Long to Fry Tilapia:

  • 2 to 4 minutes per side over medium to medium-high heat.
  • Total cook time: 4 to 8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

🔥 Tips for Best Results:

  • Use a hot skillet with about 1–2 tablespoons of oil (like olive oil, canola, or butter for extra flavor).
  • The tilapia is ready to flip when the edges turn golden and the fish releases easily from the pan.
  • Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon and sprinkle chopped herbs on top right before serving to boost freshness and flavor.
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Calories are estimated per serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 6servings | Calories: 471kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 38g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 32mg | Sodium: 904mg | Potassium: 23mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 2mg