Crispy Cornmeal-Crusted Tilapia Fillets
Main Dishes

Crispy Cornmeal-Crusted Tilapia Fillets

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated October 3, 2026

Tender tilapia fillets marinated in lemon and fresh herbs, then coated in a golden cornmeal and flour crust — an easy weeknight dinner that delivers real crunch without the kitchen mess. Ready in under 30 minutes and budget-friendly, this dish is as satisfying as it is simple. Serve with rice and tartar sauce for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.

Prep⏱️ 30 min
Servings👥 2 servings
Difficulty📊 Easy
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🛒 Ingredients

2 servings

2
  • 400 g (14 oz) tilapia fillets
  • 1/2 cup fine cornmeal
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 lemon (juice)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

  1. 1

    Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle with lemon juice, add parsley and garlic, season with salt and pepper, and let marinate for 15 minutes in the refrigerator.

  2. 2

    In a shallow dish, combine the cornmeal and all-purpose flour and mix until uniform.

  3. 3

    Remove fillets from the marinade and dredge them in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres evenly on both sides.

  4. 4

    Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the fillets 3–4 minutes per side until deeply golden and crispy.

  5. 5

    Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with white rice, a fresh green salad, and tartar sauce.

💡 Chef's Tip

The key to a crispy, mess-free fry: dry the fillets thoroughly before coating them, and always make sure the oil is properly hot before adding the fish. A cast-iron skillet gives the most even, golden results.