Method

Prepare cooking method:
For Air Fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
For Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.

Dry the fish: Pat the tilapia dry with paper towels. If using whole tilapia, clean and gut it first, then pat dry thoroughly.

Make the seasoning: Zest one lemon. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon zest, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder (optional).

Season the fish: Brush the tilapia generously with the seasoning mixture, coating both sides evenly.

Cook the fish: Place in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the baking sheet.
Air Fryer: Cook 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Oven: Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden and flakes easily with a fork.

Finish and serve: Optionally squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish and garnish with parsley.

Serving with ideas: Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice, Keto-Friendly, Garlic Olive Oil Vegetable Pasta, Keto-Friendly, Lemon Pepper Zucchini, Keto-Friendly, Tahini Sauce, Keto-Friendly, Green Salad, Keto-Friendly, Tzatziki Sauce, Keto-Friendly, Pita Bread, Keto-Friendly or Cloud Bread, Keto-Friendly.

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container. Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freeze: Wrap each piece tightly in parchment paper or foil, then place in a freezer-safe zip bag or container. Best consumed within 1–2 months.