Description
These Parmesan Fish Nuggets are a crispy, flavorful, and healthy snack or main dish perfect for kids and adults alike. Made with tender white fish fillets coated in a seasoned Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, then baked to golden perfection, they offer a delicious alternative to fried fish bites. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish Nuggets
- 1 pound white fish fillets (cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley if using. Mix thoroughly to distribute all the seasonings evenly.
- Dip the fish pieces: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Dip each fish piece into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere.
- Coat with the breadcrumb mixture: Transfer the egg-coated fish pieces to the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks well to all sides.
- Arrange and spray: Place the coated fish nuggets on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with cooking or olive oil spray to help them crisp up during baking.
- Bake the nuggets: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, flipping the nuggets halfway through cooking. Bake until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve warm: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious meal or snack.
Notes
- These nuggets can also be cooked in an air fryer at 400°F for 8–10 minutes for a quicker, equally crispy option.
- You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
- Use fresh fish for best texture and flavor, but frozen fish that’s fully thawed works well too.
- Adjust seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste preferences.
