Air Fryer Fish Sticks: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Fish sticks are a great, quick meal to make for the family, and even better when they're cooked in an air fryer. They're healthier than deep-fried fish sticks, and faster to cook than baking them in the oven. You can make them straight from frozen, and they'll be ready in less than 20 minutes.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process, and it's worth noting that not all air fryers require preheating. Some models, like basket-style air fryers, may cook faster without preheating, so always refer to your air fryer's manual for specific instructions.

If your air fryer does require preheating, the general rule is to preheat it for around 4 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is ideal for cooking frozen food, as it ensures the outside becomes crispy while keeping the inside moist and flaky. Preheating at this temperature also saves time, as you don't need to thaw frozen fish sticks before cooking them.

Preheating your air fryer also helps to ensure even cooking. When you put your fish sticks into the air fryer, they should be placed in a single layer with space between them. This allows the hot air to circulate evenly, so your fish sticks will cook uniformly and achieve the desired crispiness.

Additionally, preheating your air fryer can prevent your food from sticking to the cooking surface. While some recipes call for lining the air fryer with parchment paper or spraying it with oil, preheating can reduce the need for these extra steps. Starting with a preheated cooking surface can help prevent your food from sticking, making cleanup easier.

Place the frozen fish sticks in the air fryer

Placing the frozen fish sticks in the air fryer is a crucial step in the cooking process. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Firstly, it is important to ensure that the fish sticks are frozen. There is no need to thaw or defrost them before cooking. You can take them straight from the freezer and place them into the air fryer. This is a convenient and time-saving step.

When placing the fish sticks in the air fryer, it is recommended to use a crisper tray or a basket. Spraying the tray or basket with olive oil or another type of cooking spray can help with the browning and crisping of the fish sticks. This step is optional but can enhance the flavour and texture of the final product.

Arrange the fish sticks in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap or touch each other. This is an important step to ensure even cooking and browning. The hot air needs to be able to circulate around each fish stick, so adequate spacing is crucial. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the fish sticks in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Once the fish sticks are arranged in the air fryer, they are ready to be cooked. You can proceed to set the temperature and timer according to your specific air fryer instructions and the desired level of crispness.

It is worth noting that some air fryers may require preheating before adding the food. Always refer to the instructions manual of your air fryer for specific guidelines.

Cook for 9-12 minutes

Cooking fish sticks in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get deliciously crispy results. The cooking time will depend on the size of your fish sticks and the model of your air fryer, but generally, you'll be looking at around 9-12 minutes in total.

To start, you'll want to preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This step is optional and will depend on your air fryer model. If you're using a toaster oven-style air fryer, it's recommended to preheat.

Next, prepare your frozen fish sticks. You don't need to thaw them first—simply place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray, leaving enough space between them to ensure even cooking. You can spray the basket or tray with olive oil or another cooking spray first to prevent sticking and encourage crispiness.

Now, it's time to air fry! Place the fish sticks in the air fryer and cook for 9-12 minutes at 400°F. For best results, flip the fish sticks halfway through the cooking process. This will ensure they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.

Keep an eye on your fish sticks as they cook. Depending on the size and brand of your fish sticks, they may take less or more time to cook. The fish sticks are done when they are golden and crispy.

Once they're cooked to your liking, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. These crispy fish treats are perfect with a slice of lemon and your favorite dipping sauce, like tartar sauce or ketchup. Enjoy!

Serve with your favourite sauce

Fish sticks are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sauces to enhance their flavour. Here are some ideas to elevate your fish sticks and create a delicious meal:

Tartar Sauce

Tartar sauce is a classic condiment for fish sticks, offering a tangy and creamy contrast to the crispy fish. You can easily make your own by combining full-fat Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, dill pickles, fresh dill, lemon juice, and salt. This sauce pairs well with the fish and elevates the dish with its fresh ingredients.

Ketchup

For a kid-friendly option, ketchup is always a favourite. Its sweet and tangy flavour complements the fish, and it's a familiar sauce that even the pickiest of eaters will enjoy. Ketchup is also a versatile condiment that can be paired with a variety of side dishes, making it a simple and convenient choice.

Lemon Wedges

If you're looking for a lighter option, serving fish sticks with lemon wedges adds a bright, acidic touch. A squeeze of lemon enhances the natural flavour of the fish and can be paired with other sauces or enjoyed on its own. It's a simple way to add a touch of freshness to your meal.

Cocktail Sauce

For those who enjoy a spicier option, cocktail sauce is an excellent choice. The combination of ketchup, horseradish, and lemon juice creates a tangy and zesty sauce that pairs perfectly with the crispy fish. It adds a sophisticated kick to your fish sticks, making them even more appetising.

Garlic Sriracha Aïoli

If you're feeling adventurous, a garlic Sriracha aïoli can take your fish sticks to the next level. The combination of garlic and spicy Sriracha creates a bold and flavourful sauce. It's a perfect choice if you want to add some heat to your meal and impress your taste buds.

Other Creative Options

You can also get creative and experiment with other sauces like honey mustard, garlic mayonnaise, or a lemon-caper sauce. The possibilities are endless, and you can tailor the sauce to your personal preference or dietary needs.

Remember, serving fish sticks with your favourite sauce adds not only flavour but also a fun and personalised touch to your meal. Enjoy experimenting and finding the perfect sauce combination!

Reheat any leftovers

If you have any leftover fish sticks, you can easily reheat them in the air fryer. This is a great way to keep them crispy—if you use a microwave, they'll turn out soggy. Place the fish sticks in the air fryer and cook for 1-2 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until thoroughly heated. You can also reheat them at 350°F (177°C) for 2-3 minutes.

Leftover fish sticks should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for 2-3 days.

Frequently asked questions