Prepare the coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well with a fork so the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Drizzle in the olive oil and stir again until the coating looks slightly moist and crumbly, which helps it crisp nicely in the air fryer.

Prepare the fish: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. This step is important because removing excess moisture helps the Parmesan coating stick better and prevents sogginess. Lightly spray or brush both sides of the fillets with a small amount of oil.

Coat the tilapia: Press each tilapia fillet firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, making sure both sides are fully coated. Gently press the coating onto the fish so it adheres well and forms an even layer.

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps the coating start crisping right away.

Air fry the tilapia: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated tilapia fillets in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece for proper air circulation. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through, until the fish is opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and the Parmesan crust is golden and crispy.

Serve: Carefully remove the tilapia from the air fryer and transfer to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, fresh finish.