A delightful and easy-to-make Italian-inspired tilapia dish with a crispy, flavorful crust.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumb mixture.
Brush each tilapia fillet lightly with olive oil on both sides.
Brushing the fillets with oil helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere better and adds flavor.
Coat each fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
Pressing the breadcrumbs onto the fillets ensures a thicker, crispier crust.
Place the breaded fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
Check the fish for doneness by ensuring it flakes easily with a fork.
Serve the crispy tilapia fillets immediately with your choice of sides, such as a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Garnish with a wedge of lemon for a burst of freshness.