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Homemade Crispy Baked Fish Sticks Recipe

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4.1 from 7 reviews

These homemade crispy baked fish sticks are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional fried versions. Made with tender cod fillets coated in a spiced, toasted panko breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, they offer a perfect dinner for kids and adults alike. Packed with protein and easy to prepare, these fish sticks are served with your favorite dipping sauces for a fun and nutritious meal.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4 (makes approximately 12-16 fish sticks)

Ingredients

Fish Sticks

  • 1 ¼ pound cod filet
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk of choice (e.g., almond milk)
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Nonstick olive oil cooking spray

Seasoning for Breadcrumbs

  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for baking the fish sticks evenly.
  2. Prepare Fish: Pat the cod fillet dry on both sides using a paper towel. Cut the fillet into strips about 1 inch thick and approximately 3 inches long, adjusting size based on your fillet.
  3. Toast Breadcrumbs: Spread the 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs evenly on a large baking sheet and spray them lightly with nonstick olive oil cooking spray. Bake for 2 minutes, stir or shake the pan, then bake for another 2-3 minutes until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown. Keep the breadcrumbs warm in the oven.
  4. Season Breadcrumbs: Transfer the toasted breadcrumbs to a medium bowl. Add salt, black pepper, onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk together to evenly distribute the spices. Set aside.
  5. Prepare Egg Wash: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk of choice until smooth. Set aside for dipping the fish.
  6. Set Up Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with an oven-safe wire rack and spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and promote crispiness.
  7. Coat Fish Sticks: Dip each fish strip first into the egg wash, then use tongs to fully coat it in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Place each coated fish stick on the prepared wire rack spaced about 1 inch apart.
  8. Add Final Spray: Generously spray the tops of the coated fish sticks with nonstick cooking spray to enhance crispness during baking.
  9. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the fish sticks for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
  10. Serve: Serve the baked fish sticks warm with your choice of dipping sauces like tartar sauce, feta sauce, tahini, tzatziki, or ketchup. Enjoy your homemade crispy baked fish sticks!

Notes

  • If you prefer a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper to taste or add a pinch of chili powder to the breadcrumb seasoning.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
  • Use an oven-safe wire rack on the baking sheet to ensure even baking and maximum crispiness by allowing heat to circulate around the fish sticks.
  • Make sure to pat the fish dry well to help the breadcrumb coating adhere better.
  • Serve with a variety of dipping sauces to offer different flavor profiles and keep meals fun, especially for kids.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat