Air Fryer Fish Sticks: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Fish sticks are a quick, easy, and convenient meal to make for you and your family. They are crispy, crunchy, flaky, and tender. Using an air fryer to make frozen fish sticks is healthier than deep frying and faster than using an oven. It also makes the fish sticks crispier due to the hot circulating air in an enclosed space.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in ensuring your fish sticks cook evenly and come out crispy. The ideal temperature to preheat your air fryer to is 400°F, and the ideal time is 5 minutes. However, some air fryers may need a little longer, so check your manual.

If you have a toaster oven-style air fryer, it is recommended that you preheat it. If you have an older, less non-stick version, you may need to spray the basket with non-stick spray before preheating.

Preheating your air fryer is not always necessary, and some recipes will work without this step. However, it is a good idea to check your manual to see if your air fryer needs preheating, and it is certainly worth doing if you want to ensure your fish sticks are cooked evenly and come out crispy.

Once preheated, you can add your frozen fish sticks to the basket, ensuring they are in a single layer and not overlapping. This will allow the hot air to circulate and ensure even cooking.

Place the frozen fish sticks in the air fryer

To make frozen fish sticks in an air fryer, you'll want to start by placing the frozen fish sticks into the air fryer basket. It's important to make sure they are in a single layer and not overlapping, so that the hot air can circulate and crisp them up evenly. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the fish sticks in batches.

Once you've arranged the fish sticks in the basket, you can move on to the next step of air-frying them. But first, you might want to spray the fish sticks with some oil to get them extra crispy—although this step is optional.

So, to summarise, place the frozen fish sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they're not overlapping. Then, you're ready to air-fry!

Cook for 5 minutes, then flip

Once your air fryer reaches the desired temperature, it's time to cook your fish sticks. Place the frozen fish sticks into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with space between them for the air to circulate. Close the drawer or lid and set the timer for 5 minutes.

After 5 minutes, open the air fryer and use tongs or a spatula to flip the fish sticks. You can also gently shake the basket to turn the fish sticks over. Close the air fryer and continue cooking for another 4 to 5 minutes.

If you want your fish sticks to be extra crispy, add another minute to the cooking time and check on them periodically to ensure they don't overcook. The fish sticks are ready when they are golden and crispy.

It's important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the brand of fish sticks and the model of your air fryer, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Spray with oil for extra crispness

Spraying your frozen fish sticks with oil before air frying will give them an extra crispy texture. However, it's important to note that not all oils are suitable for this purpose. Avoid using cooking sprays like PAM, as these can damage your air fryer. Instead, opt for pure oil sprays such as olive oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil spray. You can also use an oil sprayer like the EVO oil sprayer to apply oil to your fish sticks.

When spraying the fish sticks with oil, ensure that they are placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving enough space between them for the air to circulate. This will ensure even cooking and help achieve the desired crispness. After spraying, follow the standard air frying instructions for frozen fish sticks, cooking them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 9-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

In addition to oil spraying, you can also use perforated parchment paper sheets or parchment paper with holes to further enhance the crispness of your fish sticks. These sheets allow hot air to circulate around the food, promoting even cooking and crispness.

By following these tips, you can take your frozen fish sticks to the next level, making them crispier and even more delicious!

Serve with your favourite sauce

Fish sticks are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sauces to elevate the flavour and make them even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas for sauces and dips to serve with your air-fried fish sticks:

Tartar Sauce

A classic choice, tartar sauce is a favourite among many fish stick enthusiasts. It has a creamy texture and a tangy flavour that pairs perfectly with the crispy fish. You can easily find tartar sauce in stores, or make your own by combining ingredients like mayonnaise, chopped pickles, onions, and herbs.

Ketchup

For those who prefer a sweeter and tangier option, ketchup is always a reliable choice. It's a well-loved condiment by both kids and adults, and its vibrant colour adds a playful touch to the dish. Ketchup can also be paired with other sauces for a fun twist.

Barbecue Sauce

Barbecue sauce, with its sweet and smoky flavours, is an excellent way to add a touch of summer to your fish sticks. It's perfect for those who enjoy a bit of extra flavour and a sticky, finger-licking experience.

Ranch Dip

Ranch dip is a creamy and refreshing option that can balance out the crispy texture of the fish sticks. It often has a tangy flavour with notes of garlic and herbs, making it a tasty choice for those who want something a little different.

Lemon Wedges

If you're looking for a lighter and more refreshing option, serving your fish sticks with lemon wedges is a great idea. Squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the fish, or dip the fish sticks directly into the lemon for a bright, tangy burst of flavour.

Honey Mustard

For those who enjoy a sweet and tangy flavour profile, honey mustard is an excellent choice. It combines the sweetness of honey with the sharp kick of mustard, creating a unique and memorable dipping experience.

Buffalo Sauce

If you're feeling adventurous, try serving your fish sticks with buffalo sauce. It has a bold, spicy kick that pairs surprisingly well with the crispy fish. This option is perfect for those who enjoy spicy food and are looking for something beyond the traditional choices.

These are just a few suggestions, but feel free to get creative and experiment with other sauces or dips that you think would pair well with the crispy, golden fish sticks. You can also offer a variety of sauces so that everyone can find their favourite and customise their fish stick experience.

Frequently asked questions