Ingredients:

  • 4 (6 oz) tilapia fillets
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Use paper towels to press firmly on both sides of the tilapia fillets to remove all surface moisture.
  3. In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until evenly distributed.
  4. Place the mayonnaise (or beaten egg) in a second shallow bowl.
  5. Coat each fillet in the binding agent, ensuring all sides are thinly and evenly covered.
  6. Press the fillet firmly into the Parmesan mixture using your palms to create a dense, uniform layer.
  7. Arrange fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until the crust is mahogany-colored and the fish flakes easily with a fork.