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Backyard Summer Homemade Fish Sticks

Crispy, golden fish sticks made from scratch with a light panko coating and a zesty lemon-dill yogurt dip. Perfect for a sunny backyard meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb firm white fish fillets like cod or haddock
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil spray
  • For the dip:
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • wire rack
  • mixing bowls
  • sharp knife
  • cutting board
  • shallow dishes
  • oven or air fryer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. This helps air circulate for even crisping.
  2. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Cut them into sticks about 3 inches long and 1 inch wide. Set aside.
  3. Set up a breading station: one shallow dish with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Dredge each fish stick first in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into egg, letting excess drip off. Then coat in the panko mixture, pressing gently so it sticks.
  5. Place the coated sticks on the wire rack. Lightly spray or brush them with oil. This is key for golden color and crunch.
  6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until golden and fish flakes easily with a fork. No need to flip. For air fryer: cook at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway.
  7. While fish bakes, mix yogurt, lemon juice, dill, and salt in a small bowl. Taste and adjust lemon or salt.
  8. Serve fish sticks warm with the dip. Enjoy immediately for maximum crunch.

Notes

Leftover fish sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 3-4 minutes to restore crispness. The dip keeps for 3 days in the fridge. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko and flour.