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From air fryer temperature settings to how long to cook frozen fish sticks in the air fryer, in this post, you’ll learn how to achieve that crisp golden glow in the air fryer that kids (and adults) love!
Can You Cook Frozen Fish Sticks in the Air Fryer?
The good news is that fish sticks in the air-fryer take a fraction of the time to cook compared to the oven and taste even better! The air circulation in the air-fryer is superior and makes the fish sticks taste as good as fried without the oil and the mess.
I can’t say it for every kitchen gadget, but recipes like this and my Air-Fried Salmon or PB & J Uncrustables PROVE air-fryers are worth the money and counter space.
How Long to Air Fry Frozen Fish Sticks
After preheating your air-fryer for 5 minutes at 400F, place the fish sticks in an even layer in the basket. Cook for 8 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 2 to 4 minutes or until crispy.
These directions apply to store-bought still frozen and homemade fish sticks that were not previously baked.
Can You Reheat Fish Sticks in the Air Fryer
Reheating fish sticks in the air-fryer is a great way to revive the crispy texture without drying them out. Place the fish sticks directly in the basket with the crisper plate at 360F for 5 to 6 minutes.
Tips & Tricks
For excellent fish sticks, follow the recipe below AND check these tips and tricks to ensure they turn out perfect!
Use the crisper plate
Most air fryers include an insert plate that lifts the food from the bottom to allow air circulation and heat. Make sure to use this insert for maximum crispiness.
Layer evenly
For the fish sticks to cook evenly and have a crispy exterior, they should be placed in a single layer and evenly spaced apart.
Don’t use cooking spray
Cooking sprays such as PAM will leave a residue, and it’s not recommended for use inside an air-fryer. If you wish to coat the fish sticks with additional oil to increase the crispiness (most fish sticks don’t need this), use a spray bottle filled with oil. Alternatively, make sure to spray the fish sticks outside the air fryer and then place them in the basket.
For larger fish sticks
If the fish sticks appear larger than the standard 1 to 1 ½-inch thick, you may need to cook them a few minutes longer. This is often the case with the wider fish sticks (think chicken strip size).
Check the internal temp
If the fish sticks still look undercooked after 12 minutes, check for an internal temperature of 165F using a meat thermometer.
How to Serve Your Air-Fried Fish Sticks
Of course, you’ll need some tartar sauce or ketchup to go with your fish sticks, but if you’d like to pair these with some quick and easy sides, you can try a quick Side Salad, these Spicy Green Beans, Sweet Potato Salad or even Carrot Raisin Salad!
Air Fryer Fish Sticks
Ingredients
- 8 to 12 frozen and breaded fish sticks
Instructions
- For best results, preheat the air fryer for 5 minutes at 400F then…
- Place the frozen fish sticks in an even layer in the air fryer basket with the crisper insert.
- Air fry at 400F for 8 minutes. Use kitchen tongs to flip the fish sticks over and cook for another 2 to 4 minutes or until cooked through, and the coating is crisp and golden brown.
Ann says
Fish sticks are so nostalgic with childhood. I love now that air fryer makes it even easier. Thanks!
suja md says
This looks amazing and such a treat! Thank you!
Charah says
I love this recipe, gonna make this soon.
Katherine says
I love how crispy they got in the air fryer!
Ned says
This is a grownup version of my childhood. I loved these fish sticks. They brought back fond memories!