Description
Crispy, golden Air Fryer Fish Sticks are a healthier twist on the classic favorite. Made with fresh cod and a crispy Panko coating, these homemade fish sticks are easy to prepare and cook quickly in the air fryer for a delicious meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 1/2 pounds cod filets, skin removed (675g)
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (40g)
- 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs (90g)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Tartar sauce for serving
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the fish: Cut the cod filets into strips, about ½ to 1 inch wide, and 3 to 4 inches long. Season all over with 1½ teaspoons of salt. Refrigerate until ready to dredge.
- Set up dredging station: Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs with 2 tablespoons of water. In a third shallow bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Bread the fish: Dredge each piece of fish in flour, then egg, and then coat it with the Panko mixture.
- Prepare air fryer: Spray the basket of an air fryer with olive oil cooking spray. Place half of the breaded fish pieces in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Spray the fish well with the olive oil spray.
- Cook first batch: Cook at 400°F for 6 minutes. Flip the fish pieces and spray the other side well with olive oil spray. Cook for 4 to 6 more minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature of each piece reaches 145°F.
- Cook remaining fish: Repeat to cook the remaining half of the fish. Serve with tartar sauce and lemon wedges.
Notes
- Thaw frozen fish and pat dry before using to prevent soggy fish sticks.
- Cut fish into equal pieces for even cooking.
- Add extra seasonings like Old Bay, garlic powder, or dried herbs for more flavor.
- Replace ¼ cup of Panko with grated parmesan for a savory twist.
- Serve immediately for maximum crispiness or keep warm in a 200°F oven.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
