How Long to Cook Tilapia 🐟
Tilapia is thin, fast-cooking, and forgiving. USDA-safe at 145°F, but the visual cue is what matters — opaque white flesh that flakes easily. Most tilapia fillets finish in under 10 minutes by any method.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I bake tilapia at 400°F?
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A standard ½-inch tilapia fillet takes 10–13 minutes at 400°F in the oven. Brush with oil or butter, season, and do not flip — tilapia is too delicate to turn.
How long does tilapia take in the air fryer?
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Tilapia fillets take 7–10 minutes at 400°F in the air fryer. Pat dry first and brush with oil. Frozen tilapia takes 10–14 minutes at the same temperature.
How do I know when tilapia is done?
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Tilapia is done when the flesh is completely opaque white and flakes cleanly with the touch of a fork. Because fillets are thin, the difference between perfect and overcooked is about 60 seconds — pull it the moment it flakes.
Can I cook tilapia from frozen?
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Yes. The air fryer is the best method — 10–14 minutes at 400°F, no thawing required. Season after the first few minutes when the surface has thawed enough for the seasoning to stick.