Crispy Homemade Fish Sticks: A Simple and Tasty Recipe

Crispy Homemade Fish Sticks A Simple and Tasty Recipe

These Homemade Fish Sticks feature a tender, flaky interior and a crispy, crunchy exterior. Not only is this fish stick recipe easy to prepare, but it also offers flavors that far surpass store-bought frozen options.

Ingredients

  • Cooking spray
  • 1 pound skinless cod fillets (about 1-inch thick, thawed if frozen)
  • 2 teaspoons seasoned salt, divided
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced (about 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Tartar sauce for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C) and adjust the rack to the center position. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place an oven-safe cooling rack on top. Lightly spray with non-stick spray.
  2. Prepare the Fish: Slice the fish into 2-inch long strips, about 1-inch wide, and season both sides with ½ teaspoon of the seasoned salt.
  3. Set Up Breading Stations: In one shallow dish, mix the flour with ½ teaspoon of seasoned salt. In a second dish, whisk together the eggs, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. In a third dish, combine the Panko bread crumbs with garlic powder and the remaining 1 teaspoon of seasoned salt.
  4. Bread the Fish: Dip each fish stick into the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the egg wash, followed by coating with the Panko mixture. Place the breaded fish onto the prepared pan and repeat with the remaining strips.
  5. Bake the Fish Sticks: Generously spray the fish sticks with cooking spray. Bake for 7 minutes, flip, and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and the fish is no longer opaque.
  6. Serve: Allow the fish sticks to cool slightly before serving, optionally with tartar sauce.

Equipment Needed

  • Baking sheet with a cooling rack

Notes

  • Fish: Substitute cod with any mild white fish, such as tilapia or haddock.
  • Breadcrumbs: While Panko provides the best texture, you can use unseasoned regular breadcrumbs if needed.
  • Storage: Leftover fish sticks can be frozen after cooling and reheated in a 400°F oven for about 12-15 minutes.
  • Air Fryer Instructions: Bread the fish as directed, spray each side with cooking spray, and cook in a single layer in the air fryer at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway. Add 2 minutes if needed.

Enjoy your delicious homemade fish sticks!