Air Fryer Fish Sticks: A Quick, Crispy Treat?

Fish sticks are a popular food choice for both adults and children, and they can be made even more enjoyable by using an air fryer. Air fryers are a convenient way to cook frozen food, and they are especially good for fried foods, as they create a super crispy texture in less time than a traditional oven. Fish sticks are no exception, and cooking them in an air fryer results in a crunchy exterior and a tender, flaky interior.

How to make fish sticks in an air fryer

Ingredients

• Fish fillets (cod, catfish, pollock, basa, halibut, haddock, hake, ling, or any whitefish)
• Breadcrumbs (dry and toasted)
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Salt and pepper
• Oil spray
• Tartar sauce or ketchup, for serving

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
• Cut the fish fillets into strips that are about 1/2-inch wide and 3 to 4 inches long.
• Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls or pie plates: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
• Dredge the fish sticks in flour, shaking off any excess, then dip them in the egg, and finally coat them in the seasoned breadcrumbs.
• Place the fish sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overlapping. Spray them lightly with oil for extra crispness.
• Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
• Serve with tartar sauce or ketchup and enjoy!

Tips:

• If using frozen fish sticks, there is no need to defrost them first. Simply increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
• For extra crispiness, spray the fish sticks with oil before air frying.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
• If making a large batch, preheat your air fryer between batches.

Tips for making fish sticks in an air fryer

Making fish sticks in an air fryer is a quick, easy, and healthy way to cook this popular dish. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

Preheat Your Air Fryer

It is recommended to preheat your air fryer before adding the fish sticks. This is an important step to ensure the outside of the fish sticks gets crispy while the inside stays flaky. Not all air fryers require preheating, so be sure to check your manual. If you are using a toaster oven-style air fryer, preheating is recommended.

Prepare the Fish Sticks

If you are using frozen fish sticks, place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray. Leave enough space between them to ensure even cooking. If you are making your own fish sticks, cut the fish into strips that are about 1/2-inch wide and 3 to 4 inches long. You can use any white fish, such as cod, haddock, or pollock. Avoid lean fish like tuna and swordfish, as they tend to dry out.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Air fry the fish sticks at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 9-11 minutes, depending on the desired crispness. Flip them over at the halfway point or at the six-minute mark to ensure even browning. If you are cooking in batches, the fish sticks may be done sooner, around the 7-8 minute mark. Check the temperature of the fish sticks with an instant-read thermometer to ensure the insides are nice and hot. The ideal internal temperature for fish sticks is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Use a Cooking Spray

To achieve extra crispiness, you can spray the fish sticks with a pure oil spray before air frying. Avoid using cooking sprays like PAM, as they can damage your air fryer. You can also spray the air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray to prevent the fish sticks from sticking.

Reheating and Storage

You can reheat fish sticks in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 380-400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the fish sticks for 2-5 minutes until they are crunchy and warmed through. Leftover fish sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best brand of fish sticks for an air fryer

Yes, you can cook fish sticks in an air fryer! In fact, it's a great way to make your favourite frozen foods even quicker and easier.

Now, for the best brand of fish sticks for an air fryer, there are a few recommendations. The top pick is Trident Seafoods' "The Ultimate Fish Stick", which can be found at Costco. They are said to have the best taste between the crispiness and texture of the breading and the freshness and flakiness of the fish.

Other great brands for air fryer fish sticks include Gorton’s, Van De Kamp’s, and Trader Joe’s. Gorton’s fish sticks are described as "absolutely delicious", and Van De Kamp’s are a good option as they will cook slightly faster since they are smaller than the average fish stick.

For the best results, place the fish sticks in a single layer with enough space between them so the air can circulate in the basket. This will ensure they cook evenly and crisp up perfectly!

What to serve with fish sticks

Fish sticks are a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or the main course for lunch or dinner. They are a popular and easy-to-make dish, loved by both kids and adults alike. While they are delicious on their own, serving them with complementary sides can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas on what to serve with fish sticks:

Classic Sides

A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with fish sticks is French fries. The crispy texture and savory flavor of fries complement the mild taste of fish sticks. You can experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or truffle salt, or serve them with dipping sauces such as ketchup, aioli, or cheese sauce.

Dips and Sauces

Fish sticks go well with various dips and sauces. Tartar sauce is a traditional choice, and it's easy to make or buy. You can customize it with fresh dill, minced onion, or Dijon mustard. Other options include salsa, guacamole, hummus, or a simple slice of lemon.

Vegetables

If you're looking for a healthier option, serve your fish sticks with steamed or roasted vegetables. Broccoli, green beans, carrots, and Brussels sprouts are all great choices. You can also try cucumber salad, which provides a refreshing contrast to the fried fish.

Starch

Fish sticks are not very filling on their own, so serving them with a starchy side like rice, mashed potatoes, or macaroni and cheese can make the meal more satisfying. Sweet potato fries are another tasty and nutritious option, offering a slightly crispy texture and natural sweetness to balance the savory fish sticks.

Creative Options

For something more creative, try serving fish tacos using tortilla bread and your choice of dips. You can also make "fish sandwiches" using hamburger or hot dog buns with tartar sauce or a creamy Cajun sauce.

How to reheat fish sticks in an air fryer

Yes, you can reheat fish sticks in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

• Preheat your air fryer to 380-400°F. Most air fryers don't require preheating, but if yours does, this step is essential for achieving the desired level of crispiness.
• Place the fish sticks inside the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overlapping. This arrangement allows the hot air to circulate evenly, ensuring consistent reheating.
• Reheat the fish sticks for 2-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as the exact time may vary depending on the air fryer model and the quantity of fish sticks.
• Check if the fish sticks have reached your desired level of crispiness and warmth. If not, return them to the air fryer for an additional minute or two.
• Remove the fish sticks from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Reheating fish sticks in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to restore their crispiness and warmth, making them taste almost like freshly cooked ones. Enjoy your crunchy fish sticks with your favourite dipping sauce!

Frequently asked questions