18 Crispy Breaded Fish Recipes for Every Occasion

recipesforlife

April 8, 2025

Get ready to dive into a world of crispy, golden-brown fish delights! Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for some inspiration for your next dinner party, these 18 crispy breaded fish recipes are sure to impress. From classic beer-battered fish and chips to more adventurous options like coconut-crusted shrimp with mango dip, we’ve got you covered.

In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the globe, exploring different flavors and techniques to bring out the best in your favorite fish fillets. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, herby, or simply crunchy, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

So go ahead, take a bite out of these crispy breaded fish delights, and get ready to reel in the compliments!

Classic Beer-Battered Fish and Chips

Classic Beer-Battered Fish and Chips
Get ready for a nostalgic treat that’s sure to please! This beloved British dish combines tender fish, crispy batter, and golden chips (fries) for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 fish fillets (cod or haddock work well)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup beer, chilled
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chips (fries) of your choice

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add the beer, whisking until smooth and free of lumps.
3. Cut fish fillets into desired shapes. Dip each piece into the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry battered fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through.
6. Drain chips (fries) according to package instructions.
7. Serve hot with your favorite condiments.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Panko-Crusted Lemon Pepper Tilapia

Panko-Crusted Lemon Pepper Tilapia
A refreshing twist on traditional tilapia, this recipe adds a crispy Panko crust and a burst of citrus flavor from lemon pepper. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, lemon pepper seasoning, and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, beat the egg.
4. Dip each tilapia fillet into the beaten egg, then coat in the Panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Garlic Parmesan Breaded Cod

Garlic Parmesan Breaded Cod
Elevate your seafood game with this crispy and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Breaded Cod recipe! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, garlic powder, and paprika. In another dish, beat the egg.
3. Dip each cod fillet into the flour mixture, then the egg, and finally the panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
4. Place the breaded cod on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Mango Dip

Crispy Coconut Shrimp with Mango Dip
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and savory treat that combines the crunch of coconut shrimp with the tanginess of mango dip. Perfect for a quick appetizer or party favorite!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Dip (see below)

Mango Dip:

– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Lime juice to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut.
3. Dip each shrimp into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, mix together mango dip ingredients in a bowl.
8. Serve warm coconut shrimp with chilled mango dip.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Spicy Cajun Breaded Catfish

Spicy Cajun Breaded Catfish
Spicy Cajun Breaded Catfish Recipe

Add a kick to your catfish with this spicy Cajun breading recipe that’s sure to become a favorite! This crispy, flavorful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cajun seasoning blend (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dip each catfish fillet in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning blend to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Herb-Crusted Baked Haddock

Herb-Crusted Baked Haddock
This recipe brings together the freshness of herbs and the flaky texture of haddock, all in one delicious dish. With a simple crust made from parsley, dill, and lemon zest, this baked fish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:
– 4 haddock fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place haddock fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, dill, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the haddock fillets.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Cornmeal-Crusted Fried Whiting

Cornmeal-Crusted Fried Whiting
A crispy cornmeal crust adds a delightful twist to this classic Southern-style fried whiting dish.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound whiting fillets, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornmeal, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each whiting piece first in the buttermilk, then coat evenly with the cornmeal mixture.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the coated whiting pieces for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total

Asian-Style Sesame Breaded Salmon

Asian-Style Sesame Breaded Salmon
This recipe combines the flavors of Asia with the simplicity of breaded salmon, creating a delicious and savory dish perfect for any occasion. With its crispy sesame crust and tender salmon fillet, this Asian-inspired treat is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, sesame seeds, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and black pepper.
3. Dip each salmon fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the breaded salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with vegetable oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Crunchy Almond-Crusted Trout

Crunchy Almond-Crusted Trout
Experience the perfect blend of crispy texture and delicate flavor with this Crunchy Almond-Crusted Trout recipe. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends with its unique combination of crunchy almonds and flaky fish.

Ingredients:

– 4 trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together almonds, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each trout fillet into the almond mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated trout on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Easy Air Fryer Breaded Fish Sticks

Easy Air Fryer Breaded Fish Sticks
Easy Air Fryer Breaded Fish Sticks

Get crispy fish sticks with minimal effort using your air fryer! This recipe is a quick and easy twist on traditional breaded fish sticks.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cod or tilapia fillets, cut into strips
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each fish strip into the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place breaded fish sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Note: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

Zesty Lime and Cilantro Breaded Mahi-Mahi

Zesty Lime and Cilantro Breaded Mahi-Mahi
This flavorful recipe combines the brightness of lime juice with the freshness of cilantro, all wrapped up in a crispy breading that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 mahi-mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp lime zest
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)
– Optional: lemon wedges and chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, cilantro, lime zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each mahi-mahi fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and chopped cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Golden Buttermilk Fried Perch

Golden Buttermilk Fried Perch
Golden Buttermilk Fried Perch Recipe

A Southern favorite gets a golden twist with this crispy fried perch recipe infused with the tanginess of buttermilk and a hint of spice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 perch fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Dip each perch fillet into the buttermilk mixture, coating evenly.
3. Dredge the coated perch in flour, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown.
5. Fry the perch for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total

Parmesan and Herb Breaded Flounder

Parmesan and Herb Breaded Flounder
A flavorful and crispy take on traditional flounder, this Parmesan and herb breaded flounder recipe is a perfect addition to any dinner table.

Ingredients:

– 4 flounder fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each flounder fillet in the flour, then the beaten eggs, and finally the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the breaded flounder for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Place the fried flounder on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to crisp up the breading.

Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total.

Sweet and Spicy Breaded Swordfish

Sweet and Spicy Breaded Swordfish
Elevate your seafood game with this crispy and flavorful swordfish recipe, featuring a sweet and spicy breading that adds a delightful twist to the classic fish dish.

Ingredients:

– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, honey, Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper, and paprika.
3. Dip each swordfish steak into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Crunchy Pecan-Crusted Halibut

Crunchy Pecan-Crusted Halibut
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and textured halibut recipe, featuring a crunchy pecan crust that’s sure to please. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pecans
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, pulse pecans until coarsely chopped.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together chopped pecans, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each halibut fillet into the pecan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated halibut on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Simple Breaded Pan-Fried Sole

Simple Breaded Pan-Fried Sole
This classic recipe yields a crispy, flavorful pan-frying experience with minimal effort and ingredients. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!

Ingredients:

– 4 sole fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, and paprika.
3. Dredge sole fillets in the breading mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Add butter to the preheated pan and swirl it around.
5. Place breaded sole fillets in the pan (do not overcrowd).
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total

Smoky Paprika Breaded Mackerel

Smoky Paprika Breaded Mackerel
A flavorful twist on traditional breaded fish, this recipe combines the rich taste of mackerel with the smoky depth of paprika and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 mackerel fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each mackerel fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the breaded mackerel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Light and Crispy Breaded Pollock

Light and Crispy Breaded Pollock
A delicate and flavorful seafood option, this Light and Crispy Breaded Pollock recipe yields a crispy exterior and tender interior. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 pollock fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each pollock fillet into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
4. Dredge coated pollock in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place breaded pollock on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and serve hot. Garnish with lemon wedges, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.

Summary

Get ready to indulge in a world of crispy and delicious breaded fish recipes! From classic beer-battered fish and chips to innovative dishes like coconut shrimp with mango dip, this collection has something for every occasion. Discover a variety of flavors and textures with recipes such as garlic parmesan cod, herb-crusted baked haddock, and even sweet and spicy swordfish. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting dinner or a quick and easy snack, these 18 crispy breaded fish recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.

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