Why You’ll Love Homemade Crispy Baked Fish Sticks Recipe
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Crispiness achieved without deep-frying: thanks to toasting the panko and baking on a wire rack, you’ll get that satisfying crunch while keeping things lighter.
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A dinner that works for kids and adults alike: the mild white fish and customizable spice level make it accessible for little ones and flavorful enough for grown-ups.
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Easy to pair and prep: serve with your favourite dipping sauces and sides, and you can even make extras to freeze for future meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Nonstick olive oil cooking spray
¾ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, if you like a little heat)
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk of choice
1¼ pound cod filet (or another firm white fish)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400 °F (≈ 200 °C). Pat the fish fillet dry with paper towels and cut it into sticks about 1 inch thick and approximately 3 inches long.
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Spread the panko breadcrumbs out on a baking sheet, spray them lightly with the nonstick cooking spray, then bake for about 2 minutes. Stir and bake for another 2‑3 minutes until golden. Leave the oven on.
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Transfer the toasted breadcrumbs to a medium bowl and stir in the salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using.
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In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
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Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil, place a wire rack on top, and spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
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Dip each fish stick into the egg mixture, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture to coat fully. Place on the prepared rack, spaced about 1 inch apart.
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Lightly spray the tops of the fish sticks with cooking spray. Bake for 15–20 minutes until cooked through and golden crisp.
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Serve immediately with your favorite sides and dipping sauces.
Servings and timing
Serves: 4 people (yields approximately 12–16 fish sticks)
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
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Fish type: Swap cod for halibut, tilapia, or salmon—just ensure it’s a firm fillet.
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Coating options: Use whole-wheat panko or add crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
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Seasoning tweaks: Omit cayenne for a mild version; add smoked paprika or cumin for added depth.
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Dairy free: Use plant-based milk like almond or soy for the egg wash.
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Air-fryer adaptation: Try air frying at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free chips in place of panko.
Storage/Reheating
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
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Freezer: Cool completely, freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: Reheat in a hot oven or under the broiler for a few minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain crunch.
FAQs
What kind of fish works best for these fish sticks?
Firm white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia works best, but salmon can also be used for a richer taste.
Can I skip the wire rack when baking?
Yes, but flip the fish sticks halfway through baking to crisp both sides evenly.
Are these fish sticks kid-friendly?
Yes, they’re mild and crunchy—just omit the cayenne for a kid-safe version.
What dipping sauces pair well with these fish sticks?
Tartar sauce, tzatziki, tahini sauce, or even ketchup all pair well.
Can I bake these fish sticks ahead of time?
Yes, bake and cool them, then store in the fridge or freezer. Reheat in the oven to serve.
How can I make the coating extra crunchy?
Toast the breadcrumbs, bake on a rack, and spray lightly with cooking spray before baking.
Is this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets?
Yes, just use a dairy-free milk alternative in the egg wash.
Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw and pat the fish dry to avoid sogginess.
How can I make a gluten-free version?
Use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free chips.
What sides go well with these baked fish sticks?
Try sweet potato fries, roasted veggies, salad, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Conclusion
Homemade crispy baked fish sticks offer a healthier twist on a classic family favorite. They’re crunchy, flavorful, and easy to prepare—perfect for weeknights or weekend meals. Whether you serve them fresh or from the freezer, with classic tartar or a twist of tahini, they’re sure to become a repeat hit at your table.
