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Crispy Fish Sticks

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

These homemade crispy fish sticks are a sophisticated, high-protein take on a nostalgic teatime favourite. By using fresh cod or flounder fillets and a crunchy panko breadcrumb coating, you achieve a superior texture that puts shop-bought frozen versions to shame. The golden, shattered-glass crunch of the panko pairs perfectly with the tender, flaky white fish inside, making them an instant hit with both children and adults.

Ideal for a quick midweek dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can be prepared in advance to save time. Serve these savoury goujons with a squeeze of fresh lemon, a dollop of tartare sauce, and a side of minted crushed peas for a balanced, nutritious meal. They can even be frozen and cooked straight from the freezer for ultimate convenience.

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Ingredients for Crispy Fish Sticks

  • 2 large eggs, beaten to blend

  • 250g panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)

  • 30g plain flour

  • 450g flounder or cod fillets, sliced crosswise into 3/4"-wide strips

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 180ml vegetable oil, divided

How to make Crispy Fish Sticks

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Place eggs, panko, and flour in 3 separate shallow medium bowls.

Season fish with salt and pepper. Working in batches, dredge fish in flour, shaking off excess. Coat with egg, allowing excess to drip back into bowl. Coat with panko, pressing to adhere. Transfer fish to a plate.

Heat 120ml oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in 2 batches and adding 60ml oil between batches, cook fish until golden brown and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side.

Transfer fish sticks to a paper towel-lined plate; season with salt.

DO AHEAD: Fish sticks can be breaded 2 days ahead. Cover and chill, or freeze in resealable plastic bags up to 3 months. Fish sticks can be cooked from frozen (cooking time will be slightly longer).

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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