Are you tired of the same old boring fish recipes? Look no further! We’ve got a treat for you – 18 mouth-watering, crispy tortilla encrusted tilapia recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From spicy and zesty to cheesy and smoky, these recipes are sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for a fiesta-inspired meal or something more subtle and elegant, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the wonderful world of tortilla-encrusted tilapia, where crispy, golden-brown goodness meets tender, flaky fish. From classic combinations like garlic butter and parmesan to bold flavors like chipotle and cajun, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the first 18 recipes that will make your taste buds do the tango:
Spicy Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia with Lime Crema
This recipe combines the crispy texture of tortilla chips with the spicy kick of chipotle peppers, all wrapped up in a zesty lime crema. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup lime crema (see below)
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon lime zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together crushed tortilla chips, minced chipotle peppers, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the tortilla mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with lime crema spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia with Avocado Salsa
This recipe combines the tender flaky fish with a crunchy tortilla crust and melted cheese, served with a creamy avocado salsa. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner!
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 2 tbsp grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado Salsa ingredients (see below)
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix crushed tortilla chips and grated cheese.
3. Season tilapia fillets with paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each tilapia fillet in the tortilla mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with Avocado Salsa.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlic Butter Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia
A flavorful and crispy tilapia dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the crunch of tortilla crumbs, all wrapped up in a tender filet of tilapia.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the beaten egg and then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Dot the top of each fillet with softened butter.
6. Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips over the top of each fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Zesty Lemon Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing and flavorful tilapia dish, infused with the zing of lemon and the crunch of tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together crushed tortilla chips, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the tortilla mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chipotle Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia Tacos
Add a spicy twist to traditional tacos with this flavorful recipe featuring chipotle tortilla encrusted tilapia.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup chipotle tortilla crumbs
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced avocado, sour cream, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together chipotle tortilla crumbs and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in lime juice, then coat with the chipotle-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook tilapia for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with cooked tilapia, your choice of toppings, and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Panko and Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia with Mango Salsa
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional fish dishes, this recipe combines the crispy texture of Panko breadcrumbs with the crunch of tortilla chips, served alongside a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Salsa ingredients: 2 ripe mangos, 1/4 cup red onion, 1 jalapeño pepper, cilantro, lime juice, salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix Panko breadcrumbs and crushed tortilla chips.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the beaten egg, then coat in the Panko-tortilla mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with lemon zest and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare Mango Salsa by combining mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a bowl.
7. Serve tilapia with Mango Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Southwest Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia Bowls
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of tilapia with the bold flavors of the Southwest. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup tortilla chips, crushed
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together crushed tortilla chips, shredded cheese, cilantro, lime juice, and chili powder.
3. Coat each tilapia fillet with the chip mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with cooking spray or oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jalapeño Lime Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia
This recipe combines the bold flavors of jalapeño and lime with the crunch of tortilla chips to create a mouthwatering tilapia dish. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch, this encrusted tilapia is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together crushed tortilla chips, chopped jalapeños, lime juice, and garlic powder.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each fillet into the tortilla chip mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Parmesan Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia with Roasted Vegetables
Transform your dinner plate into a Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece with this crispy and flavorful tilapia dish, paired with a medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tortilla chip, crushed
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Assorted vegetables (such as broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes) for roasting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Parmesan cheese, crushed tortilla chip, and garlic powder.
3. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each tilapia fillet into the Parmesan mixture, coating evenly.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add coated tilapia and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until crispy and cooked through.
6. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
7. Serve Parmesan encrusted tilapia with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cilantro Lime Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia
This refreshing and flavorful dish combines the brightness of lime with the earthiness of cilantro, all wrapped up in a crunchy tortilla crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together crushed tortilla chips, olive oil, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and garlic powder.
3. Place tilapia fillets in the tortilla mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia with Remoulade
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this crispy and delicious tilapia recipe, topped with a creamy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
• 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 cup crushed black tortilla chips
• 2 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together crushed tortilla chips, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the tortilla mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook tilapia for 2-3 minutes per side, or until crispy.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve with remoulade sauce spooned on top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crunchy Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia Sliders
Elevate your slider game with these crispy and flavorful tilapia bites, perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer. This recipe combines the crunch of tortilla chips with the delicate flavor of tilapia, all wrapped up in a compact package.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lime juice
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns or slider rolls
– Sliced avocado, sour cream, and pickled red onions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together crushed tortilla chips, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the chip mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a piece of tilapia onto a bun, followed by your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoky Paprika Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia
A flavorful twist on traditional fish dishes, this recipe combines the smokiness of paprika with the crunch of tortilla chips for a delightful and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup smoky paprika
– 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together paprika and crushed tortilla chips.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the paprika mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia with Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish, combining the crunch of tortilla chips with the sweetness of pineapple salsa. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Pineapple Salsa (recipe below)
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together crushed tortilla chips, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the tortilla mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare Pineapple Salsa by combining all ingredients in a bowl and mixing well.
Serve: Serve baked tilapia with Pineapple Salsa spooned over the top. Enjoy!
Buffalo Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia Bites
Elevate your snack game with these crispy Buffalo tortilla-encrusted tilapia bites, packed with spicy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound tilapia fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips (Buffalo wing flavor)
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together crushed tortilla chips, Greek yogurt, hot sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each tilapia piece into the chip mixture, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated tilapia pieces until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Drain excess oil and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Herb-Crusted Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and crispy tilapia dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. A combination of fresh herbs and crunchy tortilla strips adds a delightful texture to the tender fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 tortilla chips, crushed
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, dill, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in the herb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Crush tortilla chips into fine crumbs and place on a plate.
5. Dip coated tilapia fillets in crushed tortilla chips, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle beaten egg over the fish for an extra crispy coating.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Chili Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and spicy tilapia recipe, featuring a crispy tortilla crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together sweet chili sauce, crushed tortilla chips, and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Season tilapia fillets with paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each fillet into the tortilla mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with vegetable oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and crust is crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 4
Cajun Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia with Garlic Aioli
Cajun Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia with Garlic Aioli: A Spicy Twist on Classic Baking
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun spices with the crispy texture of tortilla chips and the richness of garlic aioli, making it a perfect dish for any seafood lover.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together crushed tortilla chips, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet into the tortilla mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix together garlic aioli by combining minced garlic and mayonnaise in a bowl.
7. Serve baked tilapia with garlic aioli drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Looking for a flavorful and crispy twist on traditional tilapia recipes? Look no further! This article presents 18 mouth-watering tortilla encrusted tilapia recipes that are sure to impress. From spicy and cheesy to herby and smoky, these dishes offer a wide range of flavors and textures. Try the Spicy Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia with Lime Crema, Cheesy Tortilla Encrusted Tilapia with Avocado Salsa, or one of the many other delicious options. Whether you’re in the mood for something bold and spicy or light and refreshing, there’s a recipe here to suit your taste.