Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly marries crispy textures and bold flavors! Our Oven Baked Tortilla Crusted Tilapia is not just another fish recipe; it’s a delightful Mexican-inspired feast that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is a quick yet impressive addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Dive into the deliciousness of flaky tilapia enveloped in a crunchy tortilla crust, and discover why this recipe is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the tilapia cooks evenly and the tortilla crust becomes crispy.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a little olive oil. This will help prevent the fish from sticking.
- In a shallow dish, combine the crushed tortilla chips, cornmeal, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the crumb mixture.
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the coating adhere better and promote even cooking.
- Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of each tilapia fillet, making sure they are well coated. This will help the tortilla crust adhere and provide a nice golden color when baked.
- Press each tilapia fillet into the tortilla chip mixture, ensuring that both sides are thoroughly coated. You can gently press down to make sure the crumbs stick well to the fish.
- Place the coated tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet for even cooking.
- Bake the tilapia in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
- Once cooked, remove the tilapia from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve the oven-baked tortilla crusted tilapia with your choice of sides, such as rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious Mexican-inspired meal!
Tips
- Preheat for Perfection: Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure an even cook and a crispy crust on your tilapia.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh spices and high-quality tortilla chips. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Pat Dry: Make sure to pat the tilapia fillets dry before coating them. This helps the crust adhere better and results in a crispier finish.
- Coat Evenly: When pressing the fillets into the tortilla chip mixture, ensure they are evenly coated on both sides for maximum crunch.
- Watch the Clock: Keep an eye on the fish while it bakes. It should flake easily with a fork when done, usually around 15-20 minutes.
- Let It Rest: Allow the tilapia to rest for a couple of minutes after baking. This step helps the juices redistribute, keeping the fish moist and flavorful.
- Pair It Right: Serve your tortilla crusted tilapia with complementary sides like cilantro lime rice, black beans, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 555kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 24g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
