Imagine a dinner that transforms ordinary fish into a crispy, golden masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds! This Honey Mustard Crusted Tilapia is not just another seafood recipe - it's a culinary adventure that combines the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy in every single bite. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe promises to elevate your dinner game with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better and ensures a crispy crust.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard until well combined, creating a smooth and glossy honey mustard mixture.
- Season the tilapia fillets with salt and pepper on both sides, ensuring even distribution of seasoning.
- Place panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish, preparing them for coating the fish.
- Brush each tilapia fillet generously with the honey mustard mixture, completely coating the surface of the fish.
- Carefully dredge each honey mustard-coated fillet in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere completely and create an even crust.
- Arrange the coated tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork and the breadcrumb crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the fish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for added flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy of Crispiness: Always pat your tilapia fillets completely dry before coating to ensure a perfectly crisp crust.
- Even Coating is Key: Use a pastry brush to evenly distribute the honey mustard mixture for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Don't Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Leave space between fillets to allow hot air to circulate, ensuring an evenly crispy crust.
- Temperature Matters: A hot oven (425°F) is crucial for achieving that golden-brown, crunchy exterior.
- Fresh is Best: For maximum flavor, use freshly ground black pepper and high-quality Dijon mustard.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a light salad or roasted vegetables to complement the rich, crispy fish.
- Leftover Storage: If you have any leftovers, store in an airtight container and consume within 1-2 days to maintain the best texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 224kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 70mg
