Before You Begin
Prepare ingredients and pat the fish dry before starting. Use a wide skillet and allow oil to heat fully before adding the fish. Cooking times and results may vary depending on fillet thickness and pan heat. Pat tilapia dry using paper towels. Do not rinse. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
Dredge tilapia in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add tilapia and cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate and serve with lemon wedges.