Pin it
My kids used to beg for those frozen fish sticks until I started making these crispy beauties in my air fryer. Using fresh cod and my special panko coating they turn out absolutely perfect every time. The best part is knowing exactly what goes into them and watching my family devour something so much better than store bought.
Why You'll Love Them
Trust me these fish sticks are a game changer. The panko coating gets wonderfully crunchy in the air fryer while the fish stays tender and flaky inside. My picky eater actually asks for seconds which never happened with regular fish. Plus they're ready in about 30 minutes perfect for those busy nights when everyone's starving.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Fish: 1 pound fresh cod cut into strips about 1 inch thick.
- Coating: 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs makes them super crispy.
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon paprika ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Dredging: ½ cup flour 2 eggs lightly beaten.
- Oil: Cooking spray for that golden finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set Up Your Station
- Get three shallow dishes ready. Put flour in one beaten eggs in another and mix panko with seasonings in the third.
- Prep the Fish
- Pat your cod strips really dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
- Coat the Fish
- Dip each piece first in flour then egg then roll in the seasoned panko pressing gently to help it stick.
- Get Ready to Cook
- Heat your air fryer to 400°F and give the basket a quick spray with oil.
- Air Fry Time
- Put the fish sticks in the basket leaving space between them. Spray lightly with oil and cook for 10-12 minutes flipping halfway until golden brown.
Pin it
Tips for Success
The secret to fantastic fish sticks is in the prep. Always pat your fish completely dry before starting. Give them breathing room in the air fryer basket so they can get crispy all over. A light spritz of oil makes such a difference in getting that beautiful golden color. I usually test one stick from the first batch since every air fryer cooks a bit differently.
Serving Suggestions
My family loves these with fresh lemon wedges and homemade tartar sauce on the side. I usually whip up a quick coleslaw or toss a green salad to go with them. On cozy nights we'll have them with mac and cheese the kids go crazy for that combo. They really work with just about any side dish you can think of.
Storage and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers they'll keep in the fridge for about three days in a sealed container. Pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to get them crispy again. Sometimes I make a big batch coat them all and freeze the extra uncooked ones they cook up great straight from frozen.
Customizing Your Recipe
My kitchen is all about trying new things. Sometimes I throw in some Old Bay seasoning or mix grated parmesan into the panko. When cod isn't looking great at the store tilapia works just as well. You can even use this same coating on chicken strips if you want to switch things up.
A Family Tradition
These fish sticks have really become something special in our house. My kids actually cheer when they see me getting the ingredients out. Between Friday night dinners and birthday requests they never get old. That moment when everyone bites into the crispy coating and finds the tender fish inside just makes my heart happy.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of fish works best for this recipe?
Cod is ideal because it's firm and mild-flavored. You can also use halibut or haddock if you prefer. Just make sure to use a firm white fish that won't fall apart.
- → How do I keep the breading from falling off?
Pat the fish dry before starting. Make sure to coat it well in cornstarch first, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the fish to help them stick.
- → Can I freeze these fish sticks?
You can freeze them after cooking. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
- → What can I serve with these fish sticks?
Besides the tartar sauce, try them with french fries, coleslaw, or a green salad. Lemon wedges add a nice fresh touch to the meal.
- → Can I make the tartar sauce ahead of time?
The tartar sauce can be made up to three days ahead. Keep it covered in the fridge. The flavors actually get better after a day of blending together.