Air Fryer Fish Sticks: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Fish sticks are a popular food item that can be made in an air fryer. They are a convenient and tasty option for those looking for a quick meal, and can be made from frozen, or homemade. The air fryer ensures the fish sticks are crispy and flaky, and they can be served with a variety of sauces and sides.

How to make fish sticks in an air fryer

Ingredients:

• Firm white fish (such as cod, sea bass, or haddock)
• Eggs
• Dijon mustard
• Lemon
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Salt
• Paprika
• Olive oil
• Tartar sauce (optional)
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Method:

• Cut the fish into sticks (around four inches long and one inch wide).
• If making tartar sauce, combine the sauce ingredients and refrigerate until needed.
• Set up two bowls – one with beaten eggs, dijon mustard, lemon juice, paprika, and salt, and another with panko breadcrumbs and Old Bay seasoning.
• Dip each fish stick into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
• Place the fish sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don't overlap. Spray with olive oil.
• Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp.
• Serve with tartar sauce and lemon wedges, if desired.

Tips:

• If your air fryer has a preheat function, you may want to use it. However, this is optional and depends on your specific air fryer.
• For extra crispiness, spray the fish sticks with oil before air frying.
• For even cooking, ensure the fish sticks are in a single layer with space between them.
• The timing may vary depending on the size and thickness of the fish sticks, so keep an eye on them and adjust the timing as needed.
• Most frozen fish sticks are pre-cooked, so you only need to heat them through and make them crispy.

Tips for making the best fish sticks in an air fryer

Pre-cooking

If you're using frozen fish sticks, it's best to thaw them completely before cooking. This will help to extract moisture from the fish, making it firmer and crispier once cooked. It's also a good opportunity to season the fish before breading.

Spacing

When placing the fish sticks in the air fryer, ensure they are in a single layer with space between them. This will allow the hot air to circulate and ensure they cook evenly. Overlapping or stacking the fish sticks will result in uneven cooking and sogginess.

Oil

Most frozen fish sticks are pre-cooked and fried, so there is no need to add oil before placing them in the air fryer. However, if you want extra crispiness, you can spray the fish sticks with a light coating of pure oil. Avoid using cooking sprays as these can damage your air fryer.

Temperature and Timing

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F/200°C. The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the fish sticks, but on average, they will take around 8-10 minutes to cook. Flip the fish sticks halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking. For thicker, beer-battered fish sticks, you may need to add a few minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer fish sticks go well with a variety of dipping sauces, such as tartar sauce, ketchup, mustard, or a mix of mayo and ketchup. For a more sophisticated option, try serving them with a slice of lemon and homemade tartar sauce. To make a meal out of it, pair the fish sticks with air fryer French fries for a perfect fish and chips dinner.

How long to cook fish sticks in an air fryer

Air fryer fish sticks are a fast and easy meal or snack. They are also healthier than deep-fried fish sticks and can be made from frozen, which is perfect for busy weeknights.

The cooking time will depend on whether you are using frozen or homemade fish sticks, and the type of air fryer you have. If you are using frozen fish sticks, there is no need to defrost them first. Simply place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and cook for around 10 minutes at 400°F/205°C, flipping them halfway through. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the brand of fish sticks you are using, and how crispy you like them. For example, Gorton's fish sticks, Target brand, Great Value, and Van de Kamp are smaller than average, so will cook slightly faster. If you are using an oven-style air fryer, the cooking time may also be a little longer.

If you are making your fish sticks from scratch, cut your fish into smaller pieces and coat them in flour, egg, and dried breadcrumbs for a delicious and crispy breading. You can then air fry these for 10 minutes, before flipping and cooking for a further 5 minutes.

What to serve with fish sticks

Fish sticks are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, ranging from healthy to indulgent options. Here are some ideas to elevate your fish sticks and create a well-rounded meal:

Classic Sides: French fries are a classic choice to serve with fish sticks, especially if you want to recreate the classic British dish of fish and chips. For a healthier alternative, opt for air-fried or oven-baked fries. Coleslaw is another traditional side dish that pairs well with fish sticks, offering a creamy, tangy flavour.

Vegetable Sides: If you're looking for something lighter and healthier, serve your fish sticks with a side of vegetables. Broccoli florets are a great option, especially when cooked in the microwave with a spritz of lemon and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. You could also try roasted sugar snap peas, which take just 5 minutes to bake and are packed with flavour. Other options include corn on the cob, green beans, or a simple arugula salad.

Starchy Sides: For a more filling meal, consider serving fish sticks with mashed potatoes. Instant mashed potatoes, such as Betty Crocker Creamy Butter Mashed Potatoes, are a convenient option that pairs surprisingly well with the crispy fish sticks. Rice is another great choice; try a rice pilaf for a nutty flavour that complements the mild taste of fish.

Dairy Sides: Macaroni and cheese is a comforting side dish that can be made spicy by adding jalapenos or habaneros. You could also serve fish sticks with a simple slice of cheese or a cheesy cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option.

Seafood Sides: If you're a seafood lover, why not double up? Popcorn shrimp is a great choice to serve alongside fish sticks, providing an extra dose of crispy, deep-fried seafood.

Dips and Sauces: Don't forget the sauces! Tartar sauce is a classic choice, and it's even better when it's homemade. You can also dip your fish sticks in ketchup, mustard, or a mix of mayo, ketchup, and sriracha hot sauce.

There are plenty of options to choose from, so feel free to mix and match to create your perfect fish stick meal!

How to reheat fish sticks in an air fryer

Yes, you can reheat fish sticks in an air fryer, and it's a great way to restore their crispy texture. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to between 350°F and 400°F (180°C and 200°C). This ensures the fish sticks will be heated evenly and helps to maintain their crispy texture.

Step 2: Arrange the Fish Sticks

Place the fish sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each stick. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to uneven heating. If you have a large batch, you may need to reheat in multiple batches.

Step 3: Reheat the Fish Sticks

Close the air fryer basket and set the timer for 3 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on the fish sticks to prevent overcooking. Flip or shake the basket halfway through to ensure even heating on all sides.

Step 4: Check for Crispness and Serve

Once the time is up, check the fish sticks. If they're not fully reheated or crispy, you can add an extra minute or two. Once they're heated through and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Tips for Optimal Results:

• Preheat your air fryer to ensure even heating and to prevent sogginess.
• Arrange the fish sticks in a single layer to allow for proper air circulation.
• Lightly oil the fish sticks before placing them in the air fryer for enhanced crispiness.
• Flip or shake the basket halfway through to ensure even heating and crispness.
• Adjust the cooking time as needed, depending on the thickness and quantity of the fish sticks, and your air fryer model.

Safety Measures:

• Always properly store leftover fish sticks in the refrigerator.
• Thaw frozen fish sticks completely before reheating to avoid uneven heating.
• Use a food thermometer to ensure the fish sticks reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Avoid cross-contamination by washing your hands, utensils, and surfaces that come into contact with raw or partially cooked fish.
• Stay nearby while reheating to monitor the process and prevent overcooking.

Reheating Fish Sticks More Than Once:

While it's generally safe to reheat fish sticks in an air fryer more than once, it's best to reheat them only once to maintain optimal taste and texture. If reheating multiple times, store the fish sticks properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator between each session, and consume within two days.

Frequently asked questions