If you’re a seafood lover, you know how delicious tilapia can be, and the best part is that you can cook it in an air fryer! Cooking frozen tilapia in an air fryer is easy, and it’s a great way to get a crispy, flavorful meal without all the oil.

Air fryers are becoming more popular, and for a good reason. They are a healthy alternative to traditional deep-frying, as they require less oil, and the food comes out crispy and delicious. With an air fryer, you can cook frozen tilapia in just a few minutes, making it a perfect option for a quick and healthy dinner.

1. Preparation: Thawing the Tilapia

Before you start cooking, it’s important to thaw the tilapia properly. Leaving the fish out at room temperature isn’t the safest option, as it can lead to bacterial growth. Instead, you can thaw the fish in the refrigerator for a few hours or under cold water.

Thawing the fish in the refrigerator is the best option as it ensures the fish is not exposed to harmful bacteria. You can place the frozen tilapia in a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and put it in the refrigerator to thaw overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can thaw the fish under cold water by placing it in a bowl and running cold water over it for 30 minutes.

It’s important to note that you should never thaw the fish in the microwave as it can cause the fish to cook unevenly, leading to a loss of flavor and texture.

2. Seasoning: Adding Flavor to the Tilapia

After thawing the fish, it’s time to season it to add flavor. The seasoning you use depends on your preference, but a simple mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder can go a long way. You can also use lemon juice, paprika, or any other seasoning you prefer.

To season the fish, pat it dry with a paper towel and then add the seasoning of your choice on both sides. Rub the seasoning into the fish to ensure it’s evenly coated. You can also marinate the fish in the seasoning for a few minutes to enhance the flavor.

Once the fish is seasoned, it’s ready to be cooked in the air fryer.

3. Cooking: how to cook frozen tilapia in air fryer

Now that the fish is thawed and seasoned, it’s time to cook it in the air fryer. The cooking process is straightforward and won’t take long.

First, preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned tilapia in the basket. Make sure the fish is not overcrowded, as this can cause it to cook unevenly.

Next, spray the fish with cooking spray or a light coating of oil. This will help the fish become crispy. Close the air fryer and set the timer for 10-12 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fish, but a good rule of thumb is to cook the fish for 10 minutes per inch of thickness.

After 5-6 minutes, flip the fish over with tongs to ensure it cooks evenly on both sides. Once the cooking time is up, check the internal temperature of the fish to ensure it’s fully cooked. The internal temperature of the fish should be at least 145°F.

4. Serving: How to Serve Frozen Tilapia from Air Fryer

Now that the fish is cooked, it’s time to serve it. There are many ways to serve tilapia, but here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Pair the fish with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus.
• Serve the fish on a bed of rice or quinoa.
• Make fish tacos by serving the fish in a tortilla with shredded cabbage, salsa, and avocado.
• Top the fish with a creamy sauce, such as an aioli or tartar sauce.

No matter how you serve it, the fish will be crispy and flavorful, making it a perfect addition to any meal. With a few simple steps, you can cook frozen tilapia in an air fryer and enjoy a healthy and delicious meal in just a few minutes.