Fish Sticks (Crispy Oven, Air Fryer or Fried)

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about biting into a perfectly crispy fish stick. Whether you’re preparing them for a cozy family dinner or a fun weeknight snack, these Fish Sticks (Crispy Oven, Air Fryer or Fried) are sure to please everyone at the table. With a golden-brown crust and flaky fish inside, they’re both satisfying and easy to make at home. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will elevate your fish stick game and make you forget all about the frozen varieties!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe is not just any fish stick recipe; it combines the crunch of panko breadcrumbs with the subtle flavors of herbs and spices to create a truly gourmet experience. The flexibility of cooking methods—oven-baked, air-fried, or pan-fried—means you can enjoy these fish sticks in whatever way suits your mood or dietary preferences. Plus, they are made with fresh cod fillets, ensuring that you get a taste of the sea without sacrificing quality.

What Goes In

• 1 3/4 cups plain panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fine cornmeal (may substitute with panko)
• 2/3 cup flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 pounds cod fillets or other mild, firm-textured fish
• 1 1/4 teaspoons paprika
• 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed (optional)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper

For serving, consider these sauces:

• Tartar sauce (HIGHLY recommended)
• Easy sriracha aioli
• Ketchup
• Barbecue sauce
• Tzatziki sauce
• Ranch

Recommended Tools

• Mixing bowls: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk: To beat your eggs and mix the marinade perfectly.
• Baking sheet or air fryer basket: Depending on your cooking method.
• Cooking thermometer: To ensure your fish is cooked to perfection.
• Paper towels: For draining excess oil if frying.

Fish Sticks (Crispy Oven, Air Fryer or Fried) in Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Begin by cutting the cod fillets into uniform strips, about 1 inch wide. This will ensure that they cook evenly. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three separate bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, combine the flour, paprika, salt, dried parsley, dried oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, pepper, dried thyme, celery seed, and cayenne pepper. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. In the third bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs and cornmeal.

Step 3: Bread the Fish

Dredge each fish strip in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat the fish in the panko-cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well. Repeat this process for all the fish strips.

Step 4: Choose Your Cooking Method

You can either bake, air fry, or fry these delicious fish sticks:

Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil. Place the breaded fish sticks on the sheet and lightly spray or drizzle more oil on top. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.

Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Place the fish sticks in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches) and spray the tops lightly with oil. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frying Method: Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded fish sticks, frying in batches if necessary. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Serve!

Once cooked, serve your fish sticks hot with your choice of sauces like tartar sauce, easy sriracha aioli, or even some good old ketchup. Enjoy the crispy goodness!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

• Fish: Use firm tofu, tempeh, or eggplant slices instead of fish.
• Eggs: Substitute with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or a store-bought egg replacer.
• Flour: Use chickpea flour or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
• Panko: Ensure you choose a vegan-friendly panko or make your own from stale bread.

If You’re Curious

Fish sticks have been a beloved meal for generations, often associated with childhood lunches and quick dinners. They are versatile and can be enjoyed in various cuisines, from classic American recipes to Asian-inspired dishes. Many people opt for frozen fish sticks for convenience, but nothing compares to the homemade version—fresh, crispy, and customized to your taste!

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you’d like to prepare these fish sticks ahead of time, you can bread them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the breaded sticks on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, there’s no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the fish completely and pat it dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks properly.

What type of fish works best for fish sticks?

While cod is a popular choice, you can also use haddock, tilapia, or even salmon for a different flavor. Just ensure the fish is firm in texture.

Can I bake these fish sticks instead of frying them?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option, and they turn out crispy when you use enough oil and the right temperature.

How can I make these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free panko and flour such as almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Time to Try It

Now that you have the ultimate guide to making Fish Sticks (Crispy Oven, Air Fryer or Fried), it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Whether you’re serving them with a zesty tartar sauce or a spicy aioli, these fish sticks are bound to become a staple in your home. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade goodness, and watch your family and friends devour every last bite!