Air fryer fish sticks are a delightful treat that combines a crispy coating with a flaky, tender fish inside. If you’re a fan of classic fish sticks, you must give them a try in the air fryer. The air fryer works its magic by creating a perfectly crisp breading while keeping the fish succulent and flavorful. Whether you’re using Great Value frozen fish sticks or Gorton’s fish sticks, these simple steps will guide you to a delicious meal.
How to Cook Fish Sticks in the Air Fryer
STEP ONE: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees.
STEP TWO: Place the frozen fish sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray.
STEP THREE: Air fry the frozen fish sticks for 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
STEP FOUR: Once cooked, remove the fish sticks from the air fryer and enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Frozen Fish Sticks
- Air fry the fish sticks in a single layer for even cooking.
- Check the temperature of the fish sticks using an Instant-Read Thermometer to ensure they are thoroughly heated.
- Use a silicone liner, parchment round, or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Avoid adding cooking spray or oil, as most frozen fish sticks are already precooked and fried in oil.
- Experiment with different brands to find your favorite. Gorton’s fish sticks, in particular, are known for their exceptional flavor when cooked in the air fryer.
How Long to Cook Fish Sticks in the Air Fryer
Air frying fish sticks typically takes around 10 minutes at high heat. Remember, this time is based on cooking from frozen. If you’re using homemade fish sticks, the cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the thickness of each fish finger.
The Best Brand of Fish Sticks for Air Frying
When it comes to frozen fish sticks for air frying, my top pick is Trident Seafoods The Ultimate Fish Stick. These can be found at Costco and offer a perfect balance of crispy breading and flaky fish. However, there are other great brands to consider, such as Gorton’s fish sticks, Mrs. Pauls, Van De Kamp, Trader Joe’s brand fish sticks, and Fisher Boy.
Pairing Suggestions for Air Fryer Fish Sticks
There are many delicious options to serve alongside your air fryer fish sticks. Consider these mouthwatering choices:
- Air Fryer French Fries
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
- Air Fryer Green Beans
- Air Fryer Tater Tots
- Air Fryer Parmesan Broccoli
- Air Fryer Hush Puppies
- Air Fryer Curly Fries
Additionally, frozen fish tenders pair well with side salads, macaroni salad, coleslaw, and even an easy Instant Pot macaroni and cheese recipe.
Troubleshooting Soggy Fish Sticks in the Air Fryer
If your fish sticks end up soggy in the air fryer, consider these possible reasons:
- The air fryer wasn’t preheated properly. Preheating allows the outside of the fish sticks to crisp up while keeping the fish inside flaky.
- The frozen fish sticks were not cooked at high heat. To achieve the best results, air fry them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The cooking time was insufficient. Give the breaded fish sticks a bit more time in the air fryer for extra crispiness.
Irresistible Dipping Sauces for Air Fried Fish Sticks
Enhance the flavors of your air-fried fish sticks with these delightful dipping sauces:
- Creamy Honey Mustard
- Buffalo Sauce
- Bang Bang Sauce
- Tartar Sauce
- Cocktail Sauce
- Lemon Garlic Sauce
How to Reheat Fish Sticks in the Air Fryer
To reheat leftover fish sticks, follow these simple steps:
- Store the leftover fish sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the fish sticks inside the air fryer and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.
- Remove the fish sticks from the air fryer and enjoy their crispy goodness once again.
Explore More Frozen Air Fryer Fish Recipes
If you’re a fan of air fryer fish dishes, try these other exciting recipes:
- Air Fryer Frozen Salmon
- Air Fryer Popcorn Shrimp
- Frozen Cod in the Air Fryer
- Air Fryer Frozen Crab Cakes
- Air Fryer Frozen Shrimp
Discover More Delicious Fish Recipes
For even more mouthwatering fish recipes, give these favorites a try:
- Air Fryer Catfish Nuggets
- Air Fryer Cod
- Air Fryer Haddock
- Air Fryer Tilapia
- Air Fryer Salmon
- Air Fryer Mahi Mahi
- 40 More Air Fryer Seafood Recipes
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