Introduction

Crispy, golden, and flavorful, these baked fish sticks are a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Made with tender cod and a seasoned parmesan-Panko coating, they’re perfect for a family dinner or casual snack.

Baked Crispy Fish Sticks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

1 pound cod (sliced into strips)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup flour
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated parmesan
2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the cod strips with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and 1/2 teaspoon salt, and one with Panko, parmesan, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic powder combined.
Step 3: Dip each cod strip first into the flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat with the Panko mixture.
Step 4: Arrange the breaded fish sticks on a parchment paper–lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, spray the fish sticks lightly with cooking spray before baking.
Swap cod with haddock or tilapia for a different flavor.
Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy kick.
Serve with tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.

Storage

Store leftover fish sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod, but make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks well and crisps up properly.

Can these fish sticks be baked ahead of time?

They can be breaded and refrigerated for a few hours before baking, but baking them fresh yields the best texture and flavor. Reheat baked sticks in the oven for best results.

Baked Crispy Fish Sticks Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 106 reviews

These crispy and flavorful Baked Fish Sticks are a healthier alternative to traditional fried fish sticks. Made with fresh cod coated in a seasoned Parmesan and Panko breadcrumb mixture, they bake to golden perfection, delivering a deliciously crunchy texture without the extra oil. Perfect as a kid-friendly meal or a quick dinner option, they pair well with tartar sauce or your favorite dipping condiments.

Author: Nora
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

1 pound cod, sliced into strips
Salt and pepper, to taste

Breading Station

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt (for eggs)
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Prepare the fish: Season the cod strips on all sides with salt and pepper. This adds basic seasoning that enhances the natural flavor of the fish.
Set up breading stations: Create three separate bowls: one with flour; the second with whisked eggs and 1/2 teaspoon salt; and the third with a mixture of Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic powder. This process ensures even coating for the fish sticks.
Bread the fish: Dip each cod strip first into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the egg mixture, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres well.
Arrange and bake: Place the coated fish sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer without overcrowding. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces like tartar sauce, ketchup, or a squeeze of lemon juice.

Notes

Ensure the fish strips are dry before seasoning and breading to help the coating stick better.
You can substitute cod with other firm white fish such as haddock, pollock, or tilapia if desired.
For extra crispiness, spray the breaded fish sticks lightly with cooking spray before baking.
Serve with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispness.

Keywords: baked fish sticks, crispy fish sticks, healthy fish sticks, cod fish sticks, parmesan fish sticks, baked seafood, kid-friendly dinner