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Crispy Spicy Fish Nuggets

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Quick and easy crispy spicy fish nuggets with a crunchy exterior and moist, tender fish inside. Perfect for a flavorful 20-minute weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock), cut into 1 to 1.5-inch nuggets
  • 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk or milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • ½ cup (65 g) all-purpose flour, seasoned with salt and pepper
  • 1 cup (100 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • Vegetable or canola oil for shallow frying (about ½ inch deep)
  • Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Rinse fish fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Cut into 1 to 1.5-inch nuggets, keeping pieces uniform for even cooking.
  2. Pour 1 cup buttermilk into a large bowl and submerge fish nuggets. Soak for 10 minutes to keep fish tender and help coating stick.
  3. Set up dredging stations: On a shallow plate, spread seasoned flour. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
  4. Remove fish from buttermilk one at a time, letting excess drip off. Dredge each nugget in flour, shaking off extra, then press into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
  5. Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Carefully place nuggets in hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  7. Remove nuggets with tongs and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to keep crispy.
  8. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Keep oil temperature steady between 325°F and 375°F for best results. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature and crispiness. Pat fish dry before coating. For a healthier option, air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Baking is possible but less crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: fish nuggets, crispy fish, spicy fish nuggets, quick dinner, weeknight dinner, fried fish, panko breadcrumbs, easy fish recipe

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/crispy-spicy-fish-nuggets-recipe-easy-20-minute-weeknight-dinner/