Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, panko-crusted tilapia is a versatile and delicious option. The crispy crust enhances the natural flavors of the fish, creating a satisfying and flavorful bite.
In our collection of recipes, we guide you through the process of creating perfectly panko-crusted tilapia. From choosing fresh tilapia fillets to preparing the breadcrumb mixture, we provide step-by-step instructions to help you achieve a crispy and flavorful result.
Panko-Crusted Tilapia
Equipment
- 1 Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp lemon pepper
- 1/3 C. panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 C. egg whites
- 1/3 C. almond flour
- 3 tilapia
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Preparing the Ingredients. Place panko, egg whites, and flour intoseparate bowls. Mix lemon pepper and Italian seasoning in withbreadcrumbs
- Pat tilapia fillets dry. Dredge in flour, then egg, then bread crumb mixture.
- Air Frying. Add to the Oven rack/basket and spray lightly with olive oil. Place the Rack on the middle-shelf of the Dutch oven.
- . Cook 10-11 minutes at 400 degrees, making sure to flip half way through cooking.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Cooking tips
When preparing crispy cheesy fish fingers, here are some cooking tips to help you achieve the best results:
1. Choose the right fish: Opt for firm and mild-flavored fish fillets such as cod, haddock, or pollock. These types of fish hold up well during frying and pair nicely with the cheesy coating.
2. Preheat the oil: Make sure to preheat your oil to the recommended temperature before frying the fish fingers. This will help create a crispy exterior while ensuring the fish cooks evenly.
3. Coat evenly: Ensure that each fish finger is evenly coated in the breading or batter. Dip the fish fillets into the coating mixture, gently press it onto the fish to adhere, and shake off any excess. This will help create a uniform and crispy coating.
4. Double coating: For an extra crispy texture, you can double coat the fish fingers by dipping them in the coating mixture a second time. This will provide an additional layer of crunchiness.
5. Cheese placement: Place the cheese inside the fish fingers in a way that it remains enclosed and doesn’t melt out during frying. This can be achieved by folding the fish fillets over the cheese or placing a cheese slice in between two smaller fillets.
6. Maintain oil temperature: While frying the fish fingers, make sure to maintain a consistent oil temperature. This will help prevent the coating from absorbing excess oil and becoming greasy. Monitor the temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
7. Drain excess oil: After frying, place the cooked fish fingers on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This will help maintain their crispiness.
8. Serve immediately: For the best eating experience, serve the crispy cheesy fish fingers immediately while they are still hot and the cheese is gooey. This will ensure you enjoy the perfect combination of crispy coating and melted cheese.
9. Dipping sauce options: Offer a variety of dipping sauces to accompany the fish fingers. Popular choices include tartar sauce, sriracha mayo, sweet chili sauce, or a homemade aioli. These sauces complement the flavors and add an extra touch of deliciousness.
10. Customization: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and cheeses to create your desired flavor profile. Add herbs, spices, or even a touch of lemon zest to the coating mixture for extra zest and aroma.
With these cooking tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to create crispy and cheesy fish fingers that are sure to impress. Enjoy the process and savor the delightful combination of crispy coating and melty cheese in each bite. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving crispy cheesy fish fingers, there are various delicious options to consider. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance your culinary experience:
1. Classic Platter: Arrange the crispy cheesy fish fingers on a platter and serve them as a classic appetizer or finger food. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Provide a selection of dipping sauces such as tartar sauce, spicy mayo, or ketchup for guests to enjoy.
2. Fish Finger Sliders: Create mini sandwiches by placing crispy cheesy fish fingers between soft slider buns. Add some crisp lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and a dollop of tartar sauce or aioli. These sliders make for a tasty and satisfying meal or party food option.
3. Fish Finger Tacos: Fill warm tortillas with crispy cheesy fish fingers and top them with shredded cabbage, sliced avocado, and a squeeze of lime. Drizzle with your favorite sauce, such as chipotle mayo or creamy garlic sauce, for a delicious fusion of flavors.
4. Fish Finger Salad: Use crispy cheesy fish fingers as a protein topping for a refreshing salad. Arrange them on a bed of mixed greens or baby spinach and add colorful veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Dress with a zesty vinaigrette or a tangy ranch dressing for a satisfying and balanced meal.
5. Fish Finger Wraps: Roll up crispy cheesy fish fingers in large tortillas along with fresh veggies, such as lettuce, sliced bell peppers, and shredded carrots. Add a spread of your choice, such as hummus or guacamole, for extra flavor. These wraps are great for a quick and portable meal.
6. Fish Finger and Cheese Melt: Place crispy cheesy fish fingers on a toasted baguette or sandwich roll. Top with additional cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with a side of pickles or coleslaw for a hearty and comforting meal.
7. Fish Finger “Fish and Chips” Style: Serve crispy cheesy fish fingers alongside a side of golden French fries or sweet potato fries for a classic “fish and chips” experience. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra burst of flavor.
Remember to serve your crispy cheesy fish fingers while they are still hot and fresh from the fryer. The crispy coating and gooey cheese are at their best when enjoyed immediately. Feel free to get creative and customize your serving suggestions to suit your preferences and occasion. Bon appétit!