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Looking for a fun, kid-approved way to serve fish that’s as satisfying as it is healthy? These Crunchy Panko Polenta Fish Sticks are a game-changer. With a crisp golden coating, tender cod inside, and a texture that picky eaters love, they’re perfect for family dinners, lunchboxes, or even game-day snacks.

The secret to their irresistible crunch? A dynamic duo of panko breadcrumbs and polenta. Panko’s airy flakes combined with the slight grit of polenta create a crust that’s light, crisp, and far from soggy. And the best part? These fish fingers are baked—not fried—making them a wholesome alternative to store-bought frozen options.

Ingredients

• ¾ lb cod fillets (or another mild white fish), cut into 1-inch strips
• 1 cup plain flour
• 1 egg, whisked with ½ cup water
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup polenta
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions for Crunchy Panko Polenta Fish Sticks

1. Preheat and Prepare
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
   
   
2. Mix Up the Crunch
   In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and polenta. This blend gives your fish fingers that signature crisp texture with a little extra bite.
   
   
3. Coat the Fish
   First, make sure your fish strips are dry by patting them gently with a paper towel. Then, coat them lightly in flour. (Here’s a tip: toss the flour and fish strips into a large zip-top bag, seal it, and give it a good shake for even coating and zero mess!)
   
   
4. Dip and Dredge
   In another bowl, whisk your egg with water to create a light egg wash. Dip each flour-coated fish strip into the egg mixture, then press it into the panko-polenta mix. Turn it gently to coat all sides.
   
   
5. Bake to Perfection
   Arrange the coated fish fingers in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil or use a spray for even coverage. Bake for 20–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and the fish is cooked through. The result? A crunchy exterior and tender, flaky fish inside.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Crunchy Panko Polenta Fish Sticks hot with your child’s favorite dipping sauces. Think tangy ketchup, creamy ranch, or even a zesty homemade tartar. For a fun twist, pair them with sweet mango salsa or mild curry dipping sauce. And these fish sticks aren’t just for kids, they’re a crowd-pleaser for the whole family. Simple, wholesome, and full of flavor, this recipe proves that healthy eating can still be fun.

Pro Tip: Stock up on fresh cod and other mild fish for sale from Wholey for unbeatable quality and flavor delivered right to your door!