Crispy Frozen Fish Sticks in Air Fryer

Air fryer frozen fish sticks are a quick and kid-friendly meal. Cook them in the air fryer for less greasy yet still crispy fish sticks that they are bound to love.

Air fryer fish sticks are one of my go-to quick and easy meal for toddlers and kids at home. My husband also happens to love them so I often throw a few extra in for him.

What type of fish is used in fish sticks?

The type of fish used in fish sticks can vary, but commonly it is white fish. Pollock is a popular choice, as it has a mild flavor and firm texture. Other types of white fish, such as cod or haddock, may also be used. The fish is typically cut into small fillets, breaded, and then frozen.

Are fish sticks healthy?

Whitefish is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. However, the nutritional content can vary based on the specific fish used.

Fish sticks may contain additives, preservatives, and high levels of sodium and saturated fats. Homemade fish sticks are a great way to prevent the extra preservatives from being added. Breading and deep frying also add calories, fats, and carbs to fish sticks.

One way to cut some of the added saturated fat and oil is by air frying. Air frying is a smaller version of an oven with hot circulating air.

Ingredients

• Frozen Fish Sticks, like Van de Kamp or Gorton’s Fish Sticks
• Old Bay Seasoning, optional
• Tartar Sauce, optional

How to Cook Frozen Fish Sticks in Air Fryer

This is just as simple as cooking fish sticks in the oven.

• Place the fish sticks in a single layer without overlapping or touching in the air fryer basket.

• Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray. The breading on fish sticks tends to stick to the basket.
• The best way to prevent soggy fish sticks is by spraying the frozen sticks lightly with cooking oil as well to help them crisp.
• Cook at 380 degrees Fahrenheit and set the cooking time for 4 minutes. After 4 minutes, flip, and cook an additional 3 minutes until they are crisp and golden brown.
• Optional: Toss the fish sticks with Old Bay Seasoning.

What to Eat with Fish Sticks

Fish sticks on their own are delicious but of course, you want a complete meal. Throw in a batch of air fryer french fries and the kids' plate will be clean before you know it.

For something a little healthier (which I recommend if you're making fish sticks anyway), make a simple cucumber and tomato side salad or serve with honey-glazed carrots.

For the classic English style, serve air fryer battered fish sticks with mushy peas.

Best Sauce for Frozen Fish Sticks

My favorite dipping sauce is and always will be tartar sauce, but there are plenty of other great choices to try.

1. Homemade Tartar Sauce: A classic choice, tartar sauce is a creamy condiment made with mayonnaise, pickles, capers, and various seasonings. Its tangy and slightly sweet flavor complements the mild taste of fish sticks.
2. Lemon Aioli: A simple aioli made with mayonnaise, minced garlic, and fresh lemon juice can add a zesty kick to your fish sticks.
3. Remoulade Sauce: This Louisiana-style sauce typically contains mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, and various herbs and spices. It provides a flavorful and slightly spicy accompaniment to fish sticks.
4. Sweet Chili Sauce: For those who enjoy a bit of heat and sweetness, sweet chili sauce can be a delicious dipping option.
5. Garlic Parmesan Sauce: Mix melted butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and a dash of parsley for a rich and savory sauce that pairs well with the crispy texture of fish sticks.
6. Cocktail Sauce: If you prefer a tangy and slightly spicy option, cocktail sauce, commonly associated with shrimp, can also complement the flavor of fish sticks.

Storage

Store leftover fish sticks in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days in an airtight container.

Creative Fish Stick Recipes

Looking for something a little more adventurous or need to use up leftover fish sticks?

Fish sticks do not have to be boring. They can be a great time-saving ingredient for some very fun meals.

Fish Stick Tacos Fish stick tacos offer a delightful twist on traditional tacos by offering a fusion of crispy seafood, vibrant slaw, and bold flavors.

Fish Stick Casserole Combine fish sticks and tater tots together in this tasty and comforting recipe. 

Fish Stick Sliders Make your own filet o’fish by adding fish sticks to sliders topped with a little slaw. They’re a delightful and bite-sized take on a classic sandwich.

Cod Fish Stick Southwestern Salad A southwestern salad with cod fish sticks and avocado crema is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of a salad with the heartiness of crispy cod fish sticks and the creaminess of avocado crema.

Beer-Battered Fish Wraps A beer-battered fish wrap featuring fresh ripe tomatoes, sliced onion, shaved Iceberg lettuce, and Gorton's Beer Battered Fish Fillets is a mouthwatering combination of crispy fish sticks and vibrant, crunchy vegetables.

Frozen fish sticks bring me lots of childhood nostalgia, especially when they were served at school lunch. I hope that this post inspires you to have a little more fun with frozen fish sticks.

Recommended Air Fryer Recipes

• 45 Best Air Fryer Frozen Foods List
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• Corn Dogs
• Mozzarella Sticks
• Popcorn Shrimp
• Potstickers