Name: Baked Fish Sticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 24 min
Ingredients: 1 can Cooking Spray; 1 pound Skinless White Fish Fillets (About 1-inch thick, thawed if frozen.); ½ teaspoon Seasoned Salt (For seasoning fish.); ½ cup All-Purpose Flour; ½ teaspoon Seasoned Salt (For seasoning flour.); 2 large Eggs; 1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice (About 1 medium lemon.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard; 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt (For seasoning breading.)

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The Baked Fish Sticks are a beloved recipe in my household, and I can’t wait to share them with you! Every time I make these, the kitchen fills with an inviting aroma that brings everyone to the table. My kids absolutely love them, and let’s be honest, who can resist crispy fish sticks? They’re perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to make! Whenever I find myself with a few fillets of fish, I think of this recipe that allows me to create something crispy and satisfying. The combination of Panko breadcrumbs and a touch of seasoning results in a crunchy exterior that perfectly encases tender fish inside. It’s definitely one of those recipes that manages to be both nostalgic and modern, ideal for all ages. Let’s dive into how to bring these golden-brown delights to your dinner table!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
24 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
14 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet with Rack

Why This Baked Fish Sticks Works

Crispy Perfection

The mouthwatering crunch of these Baked Fish Sticks is simply irresistible! Everyone loves that satisfying sound when you bite into a perfectly cooked fish stick. The secret? A generous coating of Panko breadcrumbs that gives them that extraordinary crunch. It’s like a little celebration of textures in every bite.

Quick and Easy

In our busy schedules, finding time to prepare meals can be a challenge. That’s why I adore this recipe! The Baked Fish Sticks come together so quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights. From prep to plate, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in just a matter of minutes, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Customizable

What I love most about these fish sticks is how easy it is to customize them! Whether you prefer cod, haddock, or another mild white fish, you can adapt this recipe to suit your family’s taste. You can even switch up the seasonings to create a unique flavor profile according to your preferences.

Fun for the Kids

Getting kids involved in the kitchen can be a fun activity, and these Baked Fish Sticks are the perfect recipe! They’ll enjoy dipping the fish in flour, brushing on the egg wash, and coating them with the crispy Panko breadcrumbs. It’s a wonderful way to teach them about cooking while creating lasting memories in the kitchen.

Healthy Option

Unlike store-bought fish sticks that can be loaded with preservatives and additives, making your own allows you to know exactly what goes into them. You can choose quality fish and control the amount of oil used in cooking. It’s a healthy alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor!

Perfect for Dipping

Serve these Baked Fish Sticks with your favorite dipping sauces, such as tartar sauce, homemade remoulade, or even a zesty cocktail sauce. The options are endless, and they make a great snack or appetizer too. You can’t go wrong!

Shopping List for Baked Fish Sticks

When it comes to making delicious Baked Fish Sticks, the choice of ingredients plays a pivotal role in achieving that delightful flavor and texture. Each ingredient serves a unique purpose, ensuring a crispy exterior and tender fish inside. The backbone of this dish consists of fresh fish and a satisfying breading that transforms the ordinary into extraordinary. Let’s look at the key players that will elevate your fish stick experience!

Cooking Spray: This allows for a light coating on your baking sheet, preventing the fish sticks from sticking and ensuring that they come out perfectly crispy.
Skinless White Fish Fillets: Choose a mild fish like cod or haddock; these fillets are the star of the dish and provide a tender, flaky texture.

Seasoned Salt: This seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the fish and provides a base flavor to the other ingredients.
All-Purpose Flour: Coating the fish in flour helps the egg wash stick, creating a crispy breading.
Large Eggs: The egg wash acts as a binding agent, allowing the breadcrumbs to adhere perfectly to the fish.

Fresh Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon adds brightness and balances the dish’s flavor.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a subtle tang, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs are crucial for achieving the ultra-crispy texture we all love in fish sticks.

Garlic Powder: A dash of garlic powder enhances the flavor of the breading, adding depth to each bite.

The Method for Baked Fish Sticks

Let’s get started on crafting these delightful Baked Fish Sticks. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have crispy, homemade fish sticks ready for your family to enjoy. Follow along, and don’t hesitate to get creative as you make this recipe your own!

Preheat your oven to 425°F/215℃ and adjust the rack to the center position. This ensures that your fish sticks cook evenly and come out perfectly crispy.

Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, or use parchment paper. Place an oven-safe cooling rack on top and lightly spray it with cooking spray. This allows hot air to circulate around the fish sticks, crisping them up nicely.
Slice your skinless white fish fillets crosswise into 2-inch long strips and about 1-inch wide. This shape allows for even cooking and perfect portion sizes.
Season both sides of the fish sticks generously with ½ teaspoon seasoned salt. This step is essential for adding flavor to your fish.

In a shallow dish, combine ½ cup all-purpose flour and another ½ teaspoon seasoned salt. Mix them well to ensure the fish gets an even coating.
In a separate shallow dish, whisk together 2 large eggs with 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. This will create a flavorful egg wash that helps the breadcrumbs stick.
In a final shallow dish, mix 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon seasoned salt. This mixture will give your fish sticks that irresistible crunch.

Now it’s time to bread the fish! Dip each fish stick into the flour mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
Next, dip the floured fish stick into the egg wash, ensuring it is thoroughly coated.
Finally, place the fish stick into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat. Use your hands to help the breadcrumbs adhere well. Place the breaded fish onto the prepared pan, and repeat until all fish strips are coated.

Generously spray the fish sticks with cooking spray before baking. This helps them crisp up in the oven.
Bake the fish sticks for 7 minutes. Then, flip them over and continue baking for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the fish is no longer opaque. Looking for a crispy, golden exterior is key!
Once they’re done, allow the fish sticks to cool slightly before serving them with your favorite dipping sauce, like tartar sauce or a zesty remoulade.

Things Worth Knowing

Perfect Baking Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to the right temperature! This is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.
Even Coating: For best results, make sure every fish stick is evenly coated in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs. This ensures consistent cooking.
Watch the Baking Time: Keeping an eye on your fish sticks as they bake is important to prevent overcooking. They should be golden brown!

Cooling Rack Usage: Using a cooling rack prevents steam from making your fish sticks soggy while baking.

Substitutions and Tips

When making Baked Fish Sticks, it’s good to have a few tips up your sleeve to ensure the best possible results. Here are some handy suggestions!

Storage: Store leftover fish sticks in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Leftover fish sticks are best frozen after cooling. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a 400-degree oven for about 12 to 15 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Pairing: Serve your fish sticks with coleslaw or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Gluten-Free Options: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour and use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs for an excellent alternative.

Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices in your breadcrumb mixture, such as paprika or cayenne pepper, for added flavor!

Perfect Matches for Baked Fish Sticks

When it comes to serving Baked Fish Sticks, there are so many delicious options to enhance your meal. Here are some wonderful pairings and serving suggestions:

Side Salads: A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the fish sticks beautifully.

Coleslaw: The crunch of coleslaw adds a refreshing texture and flavor contrast.
Potato Wedges: Serve alongside seasoned potato wedges to round out a comforting meal.
Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as tartar sauce, ranch, or sweet chili for a fun experience!

Lunch Boxes: These fish sticks also make an excellent option for packed lunches; they’re easy to eat cold or at room temperature.
Casual Gatherings: Perfect for game day or casual hangouts, serve them with an array of dips and sides!

FAQ

When it comes to the best fish for making Baked Fish Sticks, mild white fish varieties are your best bet. Cod, Haddock, and Mahi Mahi are excellent choices, offering a delicate flavor and firm texture that holds up well during cooking. You can also use Tilapia, but keep in mind that it’s a thinner fillet, so adjust your baking time accordingly. The key is to choose a fish that’s not too strong in flavor, allowing the crispy coating to shine through while complimenting the tender fish.

Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, using frozen fish fillets is perfectly fine for Baked Fish Sticks. Just make sure to thaw them adequately before slicing. Thawing ensures that they cook evenly and thoroughly. You can place them in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly for frozen fish, so keep an eye on them in the oven to ensure they achieve that perfectly crispy texture.

To store leftover Baked Fish Sticks, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days. If you want to preserve their crispiness, I recommend freezing them after they cool. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 400°F/205°C for about 12 to 15 minutes until heated through!

Yes! Making Baked Fish Sticks gluten-free is quite simple. You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend. Additionally, using gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs will ensure that you achieve that desired crunch without gluten. These alternatives will maintain the same delicious flavor and texture, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy!

Conclusion

These Baked Fish Sticks are truly a delightful treat that brings joy into any meal. Their crispy exterior and tender fish inside make them a favorite in my home, and I hope they will become a staple in yours as well. So, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try tonight! Your family will thank you for this deliciously satisfying dish.

Baked Fish Sticks

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Fish Sticks are crispy, flaky, and oh so easy to make! Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, these delightful bites will have everyone coming back for seconds. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce tonight!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 14

Total Time 24

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

Baking Sheet with Rack

Ingredients

1 can Cooking Spray
1 pound Skinless White Fish Fillets About 1-inch thick, thawed if frozen.
½ teaspoon Seasoned Salt For seasoning fish.
½ cup All-Purpose Flour
½ teaspoon Seasoned Salt For seasoning flour.
2 large Eggs
1 tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice About 1 medium lemon.
1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt For seasoning breading.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F/215℃ and adjust the rack to the center position. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, or use parchment paper. Place an oven-safe cooling rack on top and lightly spray it with cooking spray. This allows hot air to circulate around the fish sticks, crisping them up nicely.
Slice your skinless white fish fillets crosswise into 2-inch long strips and about 1-inch wide. This shape allows for even cooking and perfect portion sizes.
Season both sides of the fish sticks generously with ½ teaspoon seasoned salt. This step is essential for adding flavor to your fish.

In a shallow dish, combine ½ cup all-purpose flour and another ½ teaspoon seasoned salt. Mix them well to ensure the fish gets an even coating.
In a separate shallow dish, whisk together 2 large eggs with 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. This will create a flavorful egg wash that helps the breadcrumbs stick.
In a final shallow dish, mix 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon seasoned salt. This mixture will give your fish sticks that irresistible crunch.

Now it's time to bread the fish! Dip each fish stick into the flour mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
Next, dip the floured fish stick into the egg wash, ensuring it is thoroughly coated.
Finally, place the fish stick into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat. Use your hands to help the breadcrumbs adhere well. Place the breaded fish onto the prepared pan, and repeat until all fish strips are coated.

Generously spray the fish sticks with cooking spray before baking. This helps them crisp up in the oven.
Bake the fish sticks for 7 minutes. Then, flip them over and continue baking for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the fish is no longer opaque. Looking for a crispy, golden exterior is key!
Once they’re done, allow the fish sticks to cool slightly before serving them with your favorite dipping sauce, like tartar sauce or a zesty remoulade.

Notes

Tip 1: Any white, mild fish, such as Cod, Mahi Mahi or Haddock work well. Tilapia works as well, but may need 2 minutes less baking time per side as they are thinner fillets.
Tip 2: Panko bread crumbs give these fish sticks the best texture, but feel free to use unseasoned regular bread crumbs if that is all you have.
Tip 3: Leftover fish sticks are best frozen after cooling and then reheated in a 400-degree oven until warmed through about 12-15 minutes.

Tip 4: For gluten-free options, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko.
Tip 5: If you have an egg allergy, you can use ½ cup of milk or buttermilk in place of the 2 eggs.