Crispy Fish Sticks

These Crispy Fish Sticks are a simple, tasty, and kid-friendly meal that the whole family will love. With just 5 ingredients, they come together quickly and are baked to perfection, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior and tender, flaky fish inside. Whether for a quick dinner or a weekend treat, these fish sticks are easy to make and packed with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Fish Sticks are a healthier homemade alternative to store-bought ones. They are coated in a flavorful mixture of Italian bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of chili powder for a kick. The cod fillets are perfectly baked, not fried, making them lighter without sacrificing the crispy crunch you crave. Plus, they’re fun to eat and perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Italian bread crumbs

• 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

• Dash of chili powder

• 1 egg (beaten)

• 1 pound cod (cut into strips)

• 1 lemon (cut into wedges)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray, or place a cooling rack on the baking sheet and spray that for extra crispiness.

Prepare the Breading:

2. In a shallow bowl, combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a dash of chili powder. In another shallow bowl, beat the egg with a teaspoon or two of water to make an egg wash.

Bread the Fish:

3. Dip each strip of cod into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then coat it in the bread crumb mixture. Place the coated fish strips on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Lightly spray the fish sticks with nonstick cooking spray to help them crisp up.

Bake:

4. Bake the fish sticks for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You can flip them halfway through for an even crispier result.

Serve:

5. Serve the crispy fish sticks with lemon wedges for extra flavor, and enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce or ketchup.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breading mixture for a spicier twist.

• Different Fish: You can use other firm fish like tilapia, haddock, or even halibut if you prefer.

• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

• Add Herbs: Add some dried oregano, basil, or parsley to the breading for an herby flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover fish sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes to keep them crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod, but be sure to thaw it completely before preparing the fish sticks.

2. Can I use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs?

Yes, panko breadcrumbs will give the fish sticks an even crispier texture, so feel free to use them!

3. Can I make these fish sticks ahead of time?

While these fish sticks are best served fresh, you can bread them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. Can I fry these fish sticks instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry the fish sticks in hot oil for a crispy exterior, but baking them makes them lighter and healthier.

5. How can I make sure the fish sticks are crispy?

Make sure to lightly spray them with nonstick cooking spray before baking and place them in a single layer without overcrowding the pan.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with grated mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

7. Can I serve these with dipping sauces?

Absolutely! Fish sticks go great with tartar sauce, ketchup, or a spicy mayo dipping sauce.

8. How do I know when the fish sticks are done?

The fish sticks are done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the fish inside flakes easily with a fork.

9. Can I make these fish sticks without the cheese?

Yes, you can omit the Parmesan cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version or simply don’t have cheese on hand.

10. Can I make these fish sticks in an air fryer?

Yes! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook the fish sticks for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for a perfectly crispy result.

Conclusion

These Crispy Fish Sticks are a quick and delicious meal that both kids and adults will love. With just a handful of ingredients and 30 minutes of your time, you can enjoy a homemade, healthier version of this classic dish. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauces for an extra burst of flavor. These fish sticks are sure to become a family favorite!

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