Name: Herb-Crusted Tilapia Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko); 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 4 tilapia fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

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If you’re searching for a vibrant, crave-worthy dinner that’s on the table in under half an hour, this Herb-Crusted Tilapia is a true gem. Tender white fish wrapped in a golden, herby crust creates a fresh, aromatic bite in every forkful, while hints of lemon and Parmesan deliver irresistible depth. This easy recipe feels far fancier than the effort it takes—making it perfect for a weeknight treat or a casual gathering. Herb-Crusted Tilapia brings together accessible ingredients and bold flavors, promising a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Herb-Crusted Tilapia Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the biggest joys of making Herb-Crusted Tilapia is just how simple and accessible the ingredients are. Each item on this list brings something special, whether it’s crunch, zest, or richness, coming together for a harmonious, flavor-packed dish.

Tilapia fillets: The star of the dish! Tilapia is a mild, flaky fish that soaks up herbs and stays deliciously tender when baked.
Breadcrumbs (plain or panko): For that coveted crisp crust. Panko will give you an extra layer of crunch if you like things extra crispy.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and a subtle nuttiness that amps up the breading.
Dried parsley: Bright and herby, parsley is classic in fish dishes for a reason.
Dried thyme: Brings gentle earthiness to the flavor profile, making the crust more aromatic.
Dried basil: Sweet and peppery, basil softens and balances the herb blend beautifully.
Garlic powder: For that irresistible savory backbone without any chopping required.
Onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth.
Salt: Essential for enhancing every flavor in the mix.
Black pepper: A spark of heat to tie all the herbs together.
Olive oil: Moistens the mustard mixture and helps the crust achieve golden perfection.
Dijon mustard: Tangy and bold, it’s a flavor booster and helps the crust adhere beautifully.
Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances the richness of the crust.

How to Make Herb-Crusted Tilapia

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or lightly grease it if you prefer. Prepping your pan ahead of time makes everything flow smoothly and ensures that golden crust doesn’t get left behind when serving your Herb-Crusted Tilapia.

Step 2: Mix the Herb Crust

In a shallow bowl, blend together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, thyme, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This aromatic mixture will soon become the crunchy, golden coating that distinguishes Herb-Crusted Tilapia from all other baked fish recipes.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a small separate bowl, vigorously whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. This zesty combination doesn’t just add flavor—it acts as the glue that holds the herby crust onto each tilapia fillet.

Step 4: Prepare the Tilapia

Use a paper towel to gently pat the tilapia fillets dry. This simple step ensures the wet mixture grips the fish perfectly for that even, crisp coating that makes Herb-Crusted Tilapia truly irresistible.

Step 5: Coat the Fillets

Brush each piece of tilapia generously with the mustard mixture, making sure to cover both sides. Then, gently press the fillets into the herbed breadcrumb mixture, one at a time, to coat evenly. The result? Every bite will be packed with flavor and the perfect amount of crunch.

Step 6: Arrange and Bake

Place the coated tilapia fillets on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out for optimal crispiness. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove your Herb-Crusted Tilapia from the oven and serve while warm. A final squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the flavors beautifully—don’t skip this step if you love a little tang!

How to Serve Herb-Crusted Tilapia

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or a few delicate basil leaves over each fillet for a splash of color and a hint of even more herbal aroma. A wedge of lemon on the side gives everyone the option to add just the right amount of brightness, lifting every mouthful of Herb-Crusted Tilapia.

Side Dishes

This dish loves classic partners. Try roasted vegetables, a crisp garden salad, or buttery rice pilaf to soak up all the herby juices. Steamed asparagus or garlicky green beans are also perfect—these simple sides let the flavors of Herb-Crusted Tilapia shine.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests (or simply feel like making an occasion of things), plate the fillets atop a vibrant beet or carrot puree for dramatic color. Or, slice the tilapia into strips and serve over mixed greens with a lemony vinaigrette for a restaurant-worthy salad featuring Herb-Crusted Tilapia as the star.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Herb-Crusted Tilapia, let the fillets cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The crust will soften in the fridge, but the flavors remain lovely and vibrant.

Freezing

Freezing Herb-Crusted Tilapia is a great option if you want to meal prep. Place cooled fillets in a single layer on a tray to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. For best results, reheat from frozen before serving.

Reheating

To revive that crispy crust, reheat Herb-Crusted Tilapia in a 375°F oven or toaster oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy and the fish rubbery. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for Herb-Crusted Tilapia?

Absolutely! Cod, haddock, or even thin fillets of snapper or halibut will work well. Just keep in mind that thicker fillets may need a few extra minutes in the oven.

What’s the best way to get the crispiest crust?

Panko breadcrumbs are your best bet for extra crunch, but the key is also in patting the fillets dry and baking them spaced apart on a hot tray so the heat can circulate evenly.

Can I make Herb-Crusted Tilapia gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs in the recipe and double-check that the Dijon mustard you use is gluten-free as well.

What herbs can I use if I don’t have parsley, thyme, or basil?

Feel free to experiment—dried oregano or dill would be delicious, or you can use an Italian herb blend for a different twist. Just make sure the total amount of dried herbs doesn’t overpower the tilapia’s delicate flavor.

How do I know when the tilapia is fully cooked?

The fish will flake easily with a fork and appear opaque at the thickest point. Typically, 12 to 15 minutes in a 400°F oven cooks Herb-Crusted Tilapia fillets perfectly, but all ovens vary a little, so keep an eye on them near the end of the baking time.

Final Thoughts

This Herb-Crusted Tilapia is so easy to pull together but delivers such impressive flavor and texture that it quickly earns favorite status. With a crunchy herb coating and tender fish inside, it’s as welcome on a weeknight as on your next dinner party table. Give it a try and discover just how rewarding homemade fish can be—you may find yourself making Herb-Crusted Tilapia part of your regular rotation!

Herb-Crusted Tilapia Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Herb-Crusted Tilapia recipe is a flavorful and easy way to enjoy a healthy fish dinner. The tilapia fillets are coated in a delicious herb and breadcrumb mixture, then baked to perfection. Serve with lemon wedges for a bright and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the herb crust:

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the tilapia:

4 tilapia fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
Prepare the herb crust: Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl.
Make the mustard mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
Coat the tilapia: Pat dry the tilapia fillets, brush with the mustard mixture, then coat with the herb crust mixture.
Bake: Place the coated fillets on the baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve: Serve warm with lemon wedges.