Description
They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and just as satisfying as any restaurant-style fish bites. Give them a try—you won’t miss the deep fryer one bit!
Ingredients
- 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, halibut, or haddock)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Tartar sauce or preferred dipping sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Fish
Cut the fish fillets into bite-sized pieces, about 1- to 1.5-inch cubes. Pat them dry with paper towels—this helps the coating stick better.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
In three separate bowls:
- Bowl 1: Add the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Old Bay seasoning.
- Bowl 2: Whisk together the egg and milk.
- Bowl 3: Pour in the panko breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Coat the Fish
Dredge each fish piece in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the fish to ensure they stick.
Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the fish nuggets in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the nuggets are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the crispy crunch with every bite!