Crispy Baked Panko Tilapia with Garlic and Thyme
Experience a delightful culinary creation with this Crispy Baked Panko Tilapia, a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Inspired by the famous Panko-Crusted Salmon, this tilapia recipe shines through with its perfectly seasoned panko coating, subtle garlic hints, and aromatic thyme. Easy to prepare and with minimal clean-up, it’s a fantastic weeknight meal that pairs beautifully with vibrant roasted asparagus or a fresh green salad. Enjoy a healthy yet indulgent seafood dish that's sure to impress your family and friends!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Panko breadcrumbs
2/3 cup (dry)
Garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon (dry)
Dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon (dry)
Cayenne pepper
1 dash (optional)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (liquid)
Salt
to taste (seasoning)
Black pepper
to taste (seasoning)
Tilapia fillets
16 ounces (skinless)
Dijon mustard
4 teaspoons (paste)
Nonstick cooking spray
as needed (for baking)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Drizzle in the olive oil, mixing with your fingers until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
3
Prepare a baking sheet by spraying it generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4
Place the skinless tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced at least 1 inch apart to allow for even cooking.
5
Spread 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard evenly over the top of each tilapia fillet, adjusting the amount to taste based on personal preference.
6
Evenly divide the panko mixture among the fillets, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere to the mustard-covered fish.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The coating should be golden and crispy.
8
Serve immediately with a side of roasted asparagus or your favorite greens.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Baked Panko Tilapia with Garlic and Thyme?
It is a healthy and flavorful seafood dish featuring tilapia fillets coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs, garlic, and thyme, then baked until golden.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for optimal crispiness.
How long does the tilapia need to bake?
The fish should bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What ingredients are needed for the crispy coating?
The coating consists of panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried thyme, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper.
Why is Dijon mustard used in this recipe?
Dijon mustard acts as a flavorful binder that helps the panko breadcrumbs adhere to the tilapia fillets.
How much tilapia is required?
You will need 16 ounces of skinless tilapia fillets.
How much Dijon mustard should I apply to each fillet?
Spread approximately 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard evenly over the top of each tilapia fillet.
What are the recommended side dishes?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted asparagus or a fresh green salad.
Is there a spicy element to this dish?
A dash of cayenne pepper is listed as an optional ingredient if you prefer a subtle hint of heat.
How much olive oil is used in the breadcrumb mixture?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of olive oil to be mixed into the panko breadcrumbs.
How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the pan?
Generously spray your baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray before placing the fillets on it.
Should the tilapia fillets be spaced out on the baking sheet?
Yes, ensure the fillets are spaced at least 1 inch apart to allow for even cooking and air circulation.
What type of breadcrumbs provides the best crunch?
Panko breadcrumbs are specifically used in this recipe to achieve a light and extra-crispy texture.
What herbs are used for seasoning?
Dried thyme is the primary aromatic herb used to season the breadcrumb crust.
How much garlic powder is needed?
The recipe specifies 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
How do I ensure the panko sticks to the fish?
After spreading the mustard, press the panko mixture gently onto the fillets to help the crumbs adhere.
What should the final appearance of the fish be?
The panko coating should look golden and crispy once the cooking process is complete.
Can I adjust the amount of mustard used?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of Dijon mustard based on your personal flavor preference.
Is this recipe considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is described as a fantastic weeknight meal with minimal clean-up and a fast bake time.
What is the preparation method for the breadcrumbs?
Combine the dry ingredients in a shallow bowl and drizzle with olive oil, mixing with your fingers until evenly coated.
What type of fish fillet is best for this recipe?
Skinless tilapia fillets are recommended for this specific preparation.
What is the inspiration behind this recipe?
This dish was inspired by the popular culinary concept of Panko-Crusted Salmon.
How much salt and pepper should be added?
Add a generous pinch of salt and black pepper to taste within the breadcrumb mixture.
Should I serve the tilapia immediately?
Yes, serving immediately ensures the crust remains crispy and the fish stays tender.
How much panko is used in total?
The recipe calls for 2/3 cup of panko breadcrumbs.
Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried?
While the recipe specifies 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, fresh thyme can be substituted, though flavor intensity may vary.
Is the tilapia baked or fried?
The tilapia is baked in the oven at a high temperature to achieve a fried-like crunch with less oil.
What category does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is categorized under 'Tilapia' and is considered a healthy seafood dinner.
Is the skin left on the fish?
No, the recipe calls for skinless tilapia fillets for a better eating experience.