Crispy Cajun Breaded Tilapia
A seasoned panko crust and about 15 minutes in the oven give this Crispy Cajun Breaded Tilapia a golden, flaky crust. Serve it with steamed rice for a light and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 4-ounce tilapia fillets thawed
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 cup panko or panko-style breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Cajun Spice Blend
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray
- 1 lemon cut into wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray a wire rack and place on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- On a rimmed plate or small baking sheet, combine panko and Cajun spice blend. Mix well.
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry with a paper towel. Brush a thin, even layer of mayonnaise over both sides of each fillet. Season with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Press each fillet into the panko mixture, coating both sides firmly. Place on the prepared wire rack.
- Lightly spritz the coated fish with olive oil spray.
- Bake for 15 to 17 minutes, until the breading is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
A wire rack will help air circulate around the fish and crisp evenly on both sides. Alternatively, you can place the coated fish directly on the parchment paper. Bake for 10 minutes, then gently flip to crisp both sides evenly.