Pecan Crusted Tilapia is a crispy, flavorful seafood dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Tender tilapia fillets are coated with a crunchy pecan and panko crust, seasoned with garlic and paprika, then baked until golden and flaky. This simple oven-baked fish recipe brings together nutty richness and light citrus freshness for a perfect weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy pecan crust with tender flaky fish
- Simple ingredients and quick preparation
- Healthy oven-baked alternative to fried fish
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Family-friendly and full of flavor
This pecan crusted tilapia recipe is ideal for anyone who wants a light but satisfying seafood meal.
Ingredients
4 tilapia fillets (4–6 ounces each)
1/4 cup pecan halves
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1–2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon chopped parsley
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
- Place pecan halves in a plastic bag and set it on a cutting board. Use a rolling pin to crush the pecans into coarse pieces.
- In a bowl, combine crushed pecans, panko crumbs, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and chopped parsley.
- Lightly coat each tilapia fillet with olive oil on both sides.
- Press the fish into the pecan mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Place coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve the pecan crusted tilapia with fresh lemon wedges for a bright finish.
Tips & Tricks
- Pat the fish dry before coating to help the crust stick.
- Chop pecans coarsely for the best crunchy texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice just before serving for extra brightness.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.
- Substitute cod or haddock if tilapia isn’t available.
Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Notes: Halal-friendly, Pescatarian
Notes
- Serve with roasted vegetables or rice.
- A light salad or steamed asparagus pairs well.
- Add a drizzle of honey mustard or garlic yogurt sauce for variation.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 310
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fat: 17g
FAQ
Can I use frozen tilapia?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before coating.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes. Air fry at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes depending on thickness.
Can I replace panko crumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be used.
How do I know when tilapia is done?
It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
What sauces pair well with pecan crusted fish?
Lemon butter sauce, garlic yogurt sauce, or honey mustard work well.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked fillets for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 325°F to maintain crispiness.
Similar Recipes
Pecan Crusted Tilapia
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets 4–6 ounces each
- 1/4 cup pecan halves
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 –2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chopped parsley
- 1 lemon cut into wedges
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
- Place pecan halves in a plastic bag and set it on a cutting board. Use a rolling pin to crush the pecans into coarse pieces.
- In a bowl, combine crushed pecans, panko crumbs, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and chopped parsley.
- Lightly coat each tilapia fillet with olive oil on both sides.
- Press the fish into the pecan mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Place coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve the pecan crusted tilapia with fresh lemon wedges for a bright finish.
Notes
- Serve with roasted vegetables or rice.
Conclusion
Pecan Crusted Tilapia is a delicious way to enjoy baked fish with a satisfying crunch. The nutty pecan coating, light seasoning, and bright lemon garnish create a simple yet elegant dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special meals.