Fish fingers are a classic kid-friendly favourite, and it’s easy to see why. Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with protein and omega-3s, they’re a clever way to sneak in some healthy nutrients while keeping kids happy at the dinner table. 

Studies show that children are more likely to enjoy meals when food is presented in familiar forms, making fish fingers an ideal choice for busy families. Whether baked, air-fried, or lightly pan-fried, these little fishy bites are versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for lunchboxes, dinners, or even snack time. Keep reading for tips, tricks, and variations to make fish fingers a meal your kids will love every time.

Build Healthy Habits with Foods Kids Already Love

Getting kids to enjoy nutritious meals doesn’t mean reinventing the wheel. In Healthy Parents, Healthy Kids, Dr Nick Fuller shows parents how to use familiar foods to encourage balanced eating without pressure or stress.

Turn everyday meals into healthy wins. Grab your copy of Healthy Parents, Healthy Kids today and support your child’s wellbeing with ease.

Steps to Make Fish Fingers for Kids

Making fish fingers is easier than it looks, and by following a few simple steps. You'll have golden, crunchy bites that kids can’t resist. You can also involve them in preparing the recipe. Research shows that kids who help with meal prep tend to be in a better mood and eat better too. Don’t worry if it gets a little messy; that’s all part of the fun, and the result is totally worth it!

Ingredients

• 600 g white fish fillets, cut into strips
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 75 g breadcrumbs
• 25 g grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2–3 tbsp mayonnaise
• 2–3 tbsp flour (for batter)
• Oil spray

Recipe

1. Cut the Fish into Strips

Start by cutting your fish fillets into finger-sized strips. Try to keep them roughly the same size so they cook evenly, perfect for little hands!

2. Prepare the Batter

In a small bowl, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add a splash of water if needed to make a smooth, thick batter. This will help the crumbs stick nicely.

3. Dip the Fish in the Batter

Gently dip each fish strip into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated. This creates that crunchy outer layer kids love.

4. Coat with Crumbs

Mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese together. Roll each battered fish strip in the crumb mixture until well coated. Extra cheesy crumbs = extra yum.

5. Bake or Fry Until Golden

Spray a baking tray or pan with oil, then place the fish fingers on top. Bake at 200°C for 12–15 minutes or fry in a little oil until golden and crispy. Turn halfway for even cooking.

6. Cool Slightly Before Serving

Let the fish fingers cool for a minute or two—hot, crispy fish fingers are tempting, but slightly cooled ones are safer and easier for kids to hold. Serve with a side of mayo or ketchup for dipping fun.

Secret Tips to Make Delicious Fish Fingers

Want to take your fish fingers from tasty to totally irresistible? A few secret tips can make all the difference. Think extra-crispy coating, hidden flavours, and kid-approved tweaks that sneak in a little extra nutrition. These tricks are easy to follow and will have your little ones reaching for seconds before you even sit down to eat.

• Toast the breadcrumbs first: Spread breadcrumbs on a tray, spray lightly with oil, bake about 4–5 minutes to get them golden before coating the fish. This ensures the crust browns evenly since the fish cooks fast.
• Extra-strength dredge batter: Instead of separate flour, then egg, then crumbs, use a combined batter to help the coating stick well.
• Use mayonnaise in the batter: A small amount of mayo helps by adding oil into the batter so the crumbs brown nicely inside and out, and adds flavour.
• Choose the right fish: Use white fish fillets that won’t dry out quickly. Avoid very lean fish like swordfish or tuna for this style.

Sides for Fish Fingers

Pairing your fish fingers with the right sides can turn a simple meal into a full, kid-friendly feast. Here are some easy ideas:

• Mashed potatoes – Creamy and soft, perfect for dipping those golden fish fingers.
• Steamed veggies – Carrots, peas, or broccoli add colour and nutrition without fuss.
• Rice – A simple, mild base that balances the crunchy fish fingers.
• Fries – Always a winner! Bake or air-fry for a slightly healthier option.
• Salad – Fresh, colourful leaves with cherry tomatoes can make the plate look extra fun.
• Dipping sauces – Ketchup, mayo, or a mild yoghurt dip make eating even more exciting for little hands.

Mix and match these sides to keep mealtimes interesting and balanced, while making sure every bite is something your kids will love.

Bottom Line

Fish fingers aren’t just a classic favourite. They’re a clever way to serve up protein, omega-3s, and a touch of veggie goodness in a form kids actually love. With simple steps, a few secret tips, and some tasty sides, you can turn mealtimes into a stress-free, fun experience for the whole family. 

Bake, fry, or air-fry them, get creative with dips and sides, and watch your little ones happily reach for seconds. Golden, crispy, and packed with flavour. These fish fingers are sure to become a regular hit in your kitchen.

Looking for more fun lunch ideas to serve alongside fish fingers? Check out our 6 Non-Sandwich Lunch Ideas For Picky Eaters — easy, kid-friendly, and fuss-free.

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Meet Dr Nick Fuller

My Story

As a father, I know first-hand that raising healthy and happy children is tricky. Children are fussy, particularly at the end of the day when they are shattered. We also live in a society where companies seek to profit from what we feed our kids; incorrect and damaging advice is pushed on us and marketed towards our children, and we have no time.

But with these recipes and resources, you and your children can enjoy simple and well-founded food and lifestyle choices for lifelong health.