CRISPY AIR FRYER FISH STICKS WITH DELECTABLE HOMEMADE TARTAR SAUCE!
Looking for a healthier twist on a classic that your kids will actually eat? These air-fried crispy fish sticks are the perfect solution for our family and can be for yours too!
Using an oatmeal and panko crust, they turn out golden and crunchy without the need for heavy oil or frying, so you can feel good about what you’re serving. And for a fun dip, we’ve got a homemade tartar sauce that’s creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of kid-friendly.
It’s a great way to introduce them to something new besides the usual ketchup. Whether your little ones are already into seafood or you’re just trying to mix things up, these fish sticks are a hit for any age. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is a great way to add variety to your weeknight dinners.
Why Your Family Will Love Air Fryer Fish Sticks
Like so many, I have a soft spot for this easy kids dish, especially the authentic ones I enjoyed during a trip to London. But let’s be real—traditional fish sticks can be a little too heavy and greasy, especially for kids.
I wanted to find a way to create a lighter, healthier version that still delivers on flavor and crunch, while sneaking in a bit of extra nutrition. That’s how this recipe came about!
By using a mixture of panko, flour, and oatmeal, I was able to keep the crispy texture without all the grease, and the air fryer made it even easier.
And since the traditional tartar sauce may not always appeal to little ones, I decided to give it a kid-friendly twist, using yogurt to keep the creamy texture while making it more approachable.
Now, you get all the taste without the heaviness—perfect for kids and adults alike!
Why Choose Fish Sticks as a Meal Option
This easy kids recipe has long been a favorite among both kids and adults for their simplicity, convenience, and delicious flavor. These breaded and fried pieces of fish offer a satisfying crunch with a tender and flaky interior, making them a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides.
Choosing fish sticks as a meal option is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a nutritious choice for incorporating more seafood into your family’s diet. Not only are fish sticks easy to prepare, but they also offer a great source of protein and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.
By opting for homemade fish sticks cooked in an air fryer, you can control the quality of ingredients and ensure a healthier meal compared to store-bought frozen options that may contain additives and preservatives.
With a few simple steps, you can transform this classic dish into a gourmet experience right in your own kitchen.
Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or looking for a quick and satisfying meal, fish sticks are a versatile option that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
By incorporating the air fryer into the cooking process, you can enjoy all the crispy goodness of fried fish sticks with a fraction of the oil, creating a guilt-free family friendly meal that’s sure to be a hit at any dinner table.
How to Choose the Right Fish for Fish Sticks
Selecting the right type of fish is crucial when preparing fish sticks to ensure a flavorful and flaky end result. When choosing fish for making fish sticks, opt for varieties that are firm and mild in flavor to withstand the breading and cooking process.
Popular choices include cod, haddock, pollock, or tilapia, as they hold up well to the breading and retain their moisture during cooking. While not traditional, salmon can also hold up if cut into slightly thicker pieces.
Depending on your taste and texture preference, any one of the above types of fish will be delicious.
To ensure a flaky center and make sure the fish holds up in the air fryer, first pat the fish dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture so the breading can adhere better. And secondly, once breaded, stick the fish sticks in the fridge for about 10 minutes prior to air frying.
By selecting high-quality fish and following proper preparation tips and techniques, you can make sure your fish sticks come out crispy on the outside and flaky and juicy on the inside.
The Secret to Achieving the Perfect Crunch
The key to achieving the perfect crunch when making fish sticks lies in the preparation, breading process and the cooking method. By following a few simple tips, you can ensure that your fish sticks turn out golden and crispy every time.
One essential step is to properly coat the fish strips in flour before dipping them in the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture. This helps the breading adhere to the fish and creates a crispy outer layer when cooked.
Another secret to achieving a crunchy texture is to preheat the air fryer before adding the breaded fish sticks. This initial blast of heat helps to start the cooking process immediately, sealing in the moisture and creating a crisp exterior.
Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can prevent proper air circulation and result in uneven cooking. Cook the fish sticks in batches if necessary to ensure they have ample space to crisp up evenly.
For an extra crispy finish, consider giving the breaded fish strips a light spritz of cooking oil before placing them in the air fryer. This helps to promote browning and enhances the overall crunchiness of the fish sticks.
Incorporate these simple techniques, pay a little attention to detail during the breading and cooking process, and you and your family will enjoy fish sticks that are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, creating a delightful contrast of textures in every bite.
Homemade Tartar Sauce for Picky Eaters
What kid doesn’t love a good dip?
No fish stick is complete without one, and our homemade tartar sauce is a perfect match for both picky eaters and the whole family. It’s creamy, tangy, and mild enough for kids while still adding great flavor to the meal.
This simple tartar sauce recipe starts with a mayo base and a touch of yogurt to keep it light. You can adjust it to your family’s tastes by adding just the right amount of pickle relish, Dijon mustard, dill, and a splash of lemon juice. The best part? You probably have all the ingredients on hand already.
Pair it with the crispy fish sticks, and you’ll have a fun dipping experience that’ll keep your kids coming back for more. It’s an easy way to introduce new flavors without overwhelming their taste buds.
Serving Tips for Crispy Fish Sticks
When serving crispy fish sticks, it’s easy to round out the meal with simple and nutritious sides that everyone will enjoy.
Classics like French fries, coleslaw, and a squeeze of fresh lemon are always crowd-pleasers, but there are plenty of healthier options too.
Sweet potato fries, a mixed green salad, or roasted veggies make great sides, while raw chopped veggies are an easy, no-fuss choice. For a fun spin, you could even set up a kid-friendly charcuterie board with various veggie options so they can see the array of colors and pick what they want to try. It’s a simple way to make mealtime interactive and more appealing to picky eaters.
By mixing and matching these sides, you can create a meal that’s colorful, nutritious, and enjoyable for the whole family, making those fish sticks a little more exciting for everyone at the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen fish fillets to make fish sticks in the air fryer?
A: Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets for making fish sticks in the air fryer. Ensure the fillets are thawed completely before breading and cooking to ensure even cooking.
Q: How do I prevent the breading from sticking to the air fryer basket?
A: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil before adding the breaded fish sticks to prevent sticking. You can also use parchment paper or a silicone mat for easier cleanup.
Q: Can I reheat leftover fish sticks in the air fryer?
A: Yes, you can reheat leftover fish sticks in the air fryer to restore their crispiness. Preheat the air fryer, lightly spray the fish sticks with oil and cook the fish sticks on the ‘reheat’ setting for a few minutes until heated through. If you do not have a ‘reheat’ setting, at a slightly lower temperature (350F or lower) to ensure they don’t dry out.
Q: What other seasonings can I add to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor?
A: You can customize the breadcrumb mixture with seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or dried herbs for added flavor.
Q: How do I know when the fish sticks are cooked through in the air fryer?
A: The fish sticks are cooked through when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and opaque and flaky on the inside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for fish to be fully cooked, or you can just sacrifice a fish stick and break it open as a taste tester.
Final Thoughts
In the end, making crispy fish sticks in the air fryer is a great way to enjoy a healthier version of a classic dish without sacrificing flavor. With less oil and a satisfying crunch, these fish sticks are perfect for family dinners, and pairing them with our homemade tartar sauce adds a fun, flavorful twist.
Using the air fryer makes it easy to prepare a wholesome meal for everyone, from seafood lovers to picky eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight option or something that feels a little more special, air-fried fish sticks are versatile, simple to make, and sure to be a hit.
So grab your ingredients, fire up the air fryer, and enjoy this easy, delicious meal that balances comfort and health for the whole family.
Kid-Friendly Air Fryer Crispy Fish Sticks
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- 5-6 Glass containers/bowls (to create the assembly line of ingredients)
Ingredients
For the Fish Sticks:
- 1 pound white fish fillets such as cod or tilapia
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup ground oatmeal or oat flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
For the Tartar Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional for extra flavor
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill or 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
For the Fish Sticks
Prepare the Fish:
- Cut the fish fillets into strips about 1 inch wide.
Set Up the Breading Station:
- In one shallow dish, place the flour.
- In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs.
- In a third shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bread the Fish:
- Dredge each fish strip in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the fish into the beaten eggs, coating it completely.
- Finally, coat the fish with the panko/oatmeal breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Air Fry the Fish Sticks:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the fish sticks in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don't touch.
- Lightly spray the tops of the fish sticks with cooking spray.
Cook:
- Air fry the fish sticks for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
- Serve the fish sticks with your favorite dipping sauce, such as our homemade tartar sauce, ketchup, or a yogurt-based dip.
Looking for additional kid-friendly picky eater recipes? Explore more recipes on my weekly feature blog page or the full kid-friendly recipe collection here!
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