Preheat the oven to 210C/420F. Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
Combine the panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese on a plate.
Pat dry the tilapia fillets. Season both sides with smoked paprika, salt, garlic powder, dried basil, and pepper.
Dredge the seasoned tilapia in the parmesan and panko mixture and pat with your hands the crumbs onto the filet.
Transfer the breaded tilapia onto the lined tray and drizzle half a tablespoon of olive oil over each one.
Bake the tilapia for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown on the outside. You can also use a meat thermometer to check that the fish reaches 145F.
Remove the fish from the oven and serve with fresh lemons.
Notes
Air fryer method: After coating the tilapia filets in the oil, seasonings, and panko/parmesan mixture, place them inside the air fryer basket. Air fry at 375°F until the coating is crispy and the fish is cooked through (10 to 12 minutes).TO STORE: Store the leftover crusted tilapia in an airtight container or wrap the filets tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.TO REHEAT: Place the leftovers on a baking sheet and reheat in a 350ºF oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat the fish in the air fryer at 375°F for 5 to 7 minutes.Recipe variations