Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsJuicy SeafoodFried Tilapia Basket (3) Recipe

Fried Tilapia Basket (3) Recipe

Inspired by Juicy Seafood
Time45m
Serves3

Make Fried Tilapia Basket (3) Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Fish Preparation

Breading

Serving

Method

Fish Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Tilapia

    In a bowl, combine the tilapia fillets with lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss the fillets to ensure they are evenly coated. Allow them to marinate for about 15 minutes.

Breading

  1. 2

    Set up the Breading Station

    In one shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In a second dish, combine the cornmeal, paprika, and cayenne pepper. In a third dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.

  2. 3

    Bread the Tilapia

    Take each marinated tilapia fillet, dredge it in the flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with the cornmeal mixture. Ensure each fillet is fully coated and set aside on a plate.

Frying

  1. 4

    Heat the Oil

    In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small amount of the cornmeal mixture; it should sizzle.

  2. 5

    Fry the Fish

    Carefully place the breaded tilapia fillets into the hot oil, a few at a time, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fillets and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serving

  1. 6

    Serve the Fried Tilapia

    Plate the fried tilapia and serve with lemon wedges and tartar sauce on the side for dipping.

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