Light, flaky, and full of bright flavor, Air Fryer Lemon Butter Garlic Tilapia is one of those effortless meals that still feels thoughtfully made. Tilapia cooks quickly and absorbs flavor beautifully, making it perfect for a simple lemon butter garlic sauce that enhances rather than overwhelms the delicate fish. The air fryer keeps the fillets tender while lightly crisping the edges, giving you a perfectly cooked piece of fish in minutes.
I love this recipe for busy days when I want something fresh, comforting, and not too heavy. The combination of buttery richness, fragrant garlic, and zesty lemon creates a balanced flavor that works for both casual dinners and slightly more special meals.
Why This Recipe Works
Tilapia is a mild, lean fish that cooks fast and evenly in the air fryer. Because it’s delicate, the gentle circulating heat keeps it moist while allowing the butter and garlic to infuse into the surface. Lemon brightens everything, cutting through the richness and making the dish feel light and fresh.
This method also avoids flipping in a pan, which can cause delicate fillets to break apart.
Ingredients
For the tilapia
- 4 tilapia fillets
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For the lemon butter garlic sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
For serving
- Lemon wedges
- Extra parsley
- Steamed vegetables, rice, or salad
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (188°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and parsley.
- Lightly brush the air fryer basket with oil or use perforated parchment paper.
- Place the fillets in a single layer in the basket.
- Brush the tops generously with the lemon butter garlic sauce.
- Air fry for 7–9 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Carefully remove the fillets and brush with a little extra sauce if desired.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Results
- Patting the fish dry helps the seasoning stick and prevents steaming.
- Avoid overcrowding so the hot air can circulate properly.
- Check the fish early — tilapia cooks quickly and can dry out if overcooked.
For more seafood cooking tips, don’t miss my Ultimate Air Fryer Seafood Recipes Guide.
Flavor Variations
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the fillets before cooking for a cheesy crust.
- Swap parsley for fresh dill for a slightly different herb profile.
Serving Ideas
This tilapia pairs beautifully with steamed rice, roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a crisp green salad. It’s also delicious tucked into warm tortillas with shredded cabbage and a squeeze of lemon for easy fish tacos.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 320°F for 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to overheat, as fish can dry out quickly.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Lemon Butter Garlic Tilapia is a bright, comforting, and easy seafood dish that comes together in minutes. The buttery garlic sauce and fresh lemon create a classic flavor combination that highlights the delicate texture of the fish without overpowering it. It’s simple enough for weeknights but delicious enough to feel like something special — a reliable go-to when you want a fresh, satisfying meal with minimal effort.
