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Homemade Fish Sticks (Crispy Oven, Air Fryer or Fried) photo

Fish Sticks (Crispy Oven, Air Fryer or Fried)

These Fish Sticks are irresistibly crispy and delicious! Perfect for family dinners or a quick snack, you'll love making them at home!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Breading:
  • 1 3/4 cups plain panko bread crumbs For that irresistible crunch.
  • 1/4 cup olive oil Helps the breading crisp up beautifully.
  • 1/4 cup fine cornmeal Adds texture; can substitute with more panko.
  • 2/3 cup flour A light coating to help the egg adhere.
  • 2 large eggs The binding agent in our breading process.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Adds a tangy flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Brightens the dish.
  • 2 pounds cod fillets A mild, firm-textured fish.
  • 1 1/4 tsp paprika Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 1/4 tsp salt Essential for seasoning.
  • 1 tsp dried parsley Enhances the fish flavor.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Enhances the fish flavor.
  • 1 tsp onion powder Enhances the fish flavor.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Enhances the fish flavor.
  • 1 tsp pepper Enhances the fish flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme Adds depth to the flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp celery seed Optional ingredient.
  • 1 pinch cayenne A little heat to balance the flavors.
  • Dipping sauces Tartar sauce, sriracha aioli, ketchup, barbecue sauce, tzatziki sauce, ranch.

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Air fryer basket
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Preparation Steps:
  1. Start by cutting your cod fillets into finger-sized strips for even cooking.
  2. In three separate bowls, set up your breading station: one for seasoned flour, one for egg mixture, and one for panko mixture.
  3. Dredge each fish strip in the seasoned flour, dip into the egg mixture, and coat in the panko mixture.
  4. For oven-baked fish sticks, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C), arrange breaded sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 12-15 minutes.
  5. For air-fried fish sticks, preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C), place sticks in basket, spray with olive oil, and cook for 8-10 minutes.
  6. For fried fish sticks, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  7. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauces.

Notes

  • Feel free to substitute cod with haddock, tilapia, or salmon.
  • Experiment with different spices in the breading for unique flavors.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.