Description
Crispy, golden, and tender, Air Fryer Fish Sticks are a healthier take on the classic favorite. Made with flaky cod, a crunchy panko coating, and paired with a tangy pickle and caper tartar sauce, they’re perfect for family dinners or quick snacks. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is a must-try!
Ingredients
For the Fish Sticks:
- Nonstick olive oil spray (as needed)
- 1 lb cod, sliced into 3-inch sticks
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ½ tsp kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp paprika
For the Pickle and Caper Tartar Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup minced pickles
- 2 tbsp capers, minced
- ⅛ tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the cod into uniform 3-inch sticks for even cooking.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Combine cornstarch, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Bowl 2: Whisk the eggs.
- Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs and paprika.
- Bread the Fish Sticks:
- Coat each fish stick in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the coated fish stick into the whisked eggs.
- Press the fish stick into the panko mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Fish Sticks:
- Arrange the breaded fish sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece.
- Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray for extra crispiness.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish sticks are golden brown and crispy.
- Make the Tartar Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced pickles, capers, and kosher salt.
- Stir well and adjust seasoning to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Once the fish sticks are cooked, transfer them to a serving plate.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
- Serve hot with the tartar sauce on the side.
Notes
- Use Fresh Cod: Fresh cod provides the best texture, but thawed frozen cod works well, too.
- Pat Dry: Ensure the fish is dry before breading to help the coating adhere.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Work in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for the best results.
- Freeze for Later: Breaded uncooked fish sticks can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack/Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American