By Wendy Stoltz and Hristina Polk / Last Modified On February 15, 2023

These gluten-free fish sticks are the best appetizer! With a crunchy coating and a juicy, flaky center, you won’t be able to resist eating more and more! Enjoy a crispy gluten-free snack that is perfect for game day or entertaining guests.

Appetizers are so fun to make for guests. There is such a variety of options and choices. I like to select my recipes based on themes. Here are some of my guests' favorites that go down in a sinch: gluten-free corn dogs, gluten-free mozzarella sticks, gluten-free cheesy breadsticks and gluten-free onion rings. If you are looking for something different, scroll through our gluten-free appetizers and snacks, and you'll find something that catches your eye.

Gluten-free cooking can be challenging in the beginning, so why not take a gluten-free cooking or baking class so you can master it quickly?

Gluten-Free Fish Sticks Recipe

Gluten-free fish sticks always remind me of a seaside cafe we frequented where people queue for just under an hour to get their freshly caught fish, cooked to perfection. It has the mandatory red and white paper and is served in a plastic tray. 

Since going gluten-free, sadly nostalgia had set in, and I had to produce a recipe with the perfect crumb. So, I have used gluten-free panko, which definitely is a great crumb to use on fish sticks. 

These fish sticks are super easy to make, even if you have never breaded fish before. You can increase the cod or white fillet portions and even serve this as a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Why You’re Going To Love These Gluten-Free Fish Sticks

Great affordable appetizer - No one can really resist a crunchy fish stick, especially with a delicious dip in tow. Making them from scratch is quick and easier on the pocket.

Easy to make - This gluten-free fish sticks recipe is easy to make. It comes together in just under 30 minutes. 

Little and big kids love them - You can't go wrong with this as an appetizer, as everyone loves them. 

Ingredients in Gluten-Free Fish Sticks

Fish - 2 lbs. of Cod or other white fish.

Breadcrumbs - 2 Cups Gluten-Free Panko Breadcrumbs.

Flour - ⅓ Cup 1:1 Gluten-Free Flour.

Seasoning - 1 tsp Garlic Powder, ½ tsp Onion Powder, 1 tsp Salt, ½ tsp Black Pepper and ½ tsp Smoked Paprika.

Eggs - 3 Eggs, beaten

Buttermilk - ¼ Cup Buttermilk

Oil - Olive oil or Canola Oil, for frying

Sauce - Tartar sauce, for serving

Optional - Fresh Parsley, for serving

Equipment Needed for These Gluten-Free Fish Sticks

Mixing bowls - These Pyrex mixing bowls are worth buying for your kitchen.

Skillet - I like to use a non-stick skillet. 

Whisk - I like to use a stainless-steel whisk.

If you have any questions about making gluten-free fish sticks, please leave a comment and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

How To Make Gluten-Free Fish Sticks

1. Cut the fish into 3x1 inch sticks—season with salt and pepper and set aside.
2. Place the breadcrumbs in a mixing bowl or a plate. In a second mixing bowl combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir to combine.
3. In a third mixing bowl combine the eggs and buttermilk. Whisk to combine and set aside next to the flour mix.
4. Heat a large pan over medium heat and add the oil. Let the oil get hot but not smoking. Test it by dropping a few pieces of the breadcrumbs. If they start sizzling the oil is ready for use.
5. Take a fish piece and roll it into the flour mix, then submerge it in the egg mixture. Let any excess egg drip off and roll into the breadcrumbs.
6. Place into the hot oil and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side. Turn it over only once to ensure even cooking.
7. Remove from the oil and place the fried fish stick on a plate lined with paper towels. Repeat with the remaining fish.
8. Serve immediately with tartar sauce and fresh parsley on the side.

Tips for Making the Best Gluten-Free Fish Sticks

Dry the fish - If the fish has moisture on it pat it down with a paper towel before applying the breading.

Do the breading beforehand - If you can do the breading on the fish in the morning. It helps the breading to adhere better if you chill it in the fridge for a few hours.

Use a sharp knife - Use a sharp knife to cut the fish into 3x1 inch sticks. You don't want them too thick or else they will break apart.

How Do I Store Gluten-Free Fish Sticks?

Store this gluten-free fried fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I Freeze Gluten-Free Fish Sticks?

Yes, you can. Store the cooked fish sticks in a freezer bag or Ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Defrost and then re-heat them.

Can You Make These Gluten-Free Fish Sticks Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can. They store in the fridge for up to 3 days or alternatively freeze them cooked for up to 3 months.

What Substitutions / Replacements Can I Make in These Gluten-Free Fish Sticks?

Fish - You don't need to use Cod; you can use Tilapia or another firm white fish.

Breadcrumbs - I do prefer gluten-free panko but you can also use regular gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Seasoning - You can change the seasoning to what you like.

What Is the Best Fish To Use for Fish Sticks?

I like to use Cod, but any white fish can work for these fish sticks.

Serving Ideas

You can serve these with your favorite dipping sauce like:

• Tartar sauce
• Ketchup
• Ranch dressing
• BBQ Sauce
• Nacho Cheese
• Cocktail Sauce
• Buffalo Sauce
• Honey Mustard

If you are making it into a dinner, double the recipe and add some fries.

 Did you make this gluten-free fish sticks recipe? Please leave me a comment below letting me know what you thought.