Crispy, golden, and loaded with bold heat! These Spicy Fish Nuggets are seasoned with fiery spices, coated in a crunchy breadcrumb crust, and pan-fried or baked to perfection. Dip them in your favorite sauce or enjoy straight from the plate—they’re addictive.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb firm white fish (like cod, tilapia, or haddock), cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 egg
- ½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk with a splash of lemon)
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 2–3 tbsp cornstarch (optional for extra crisp)
- Oil for frying (or spray for baking)
Directions:
- Season the Fish:
Pat the fish dry. Toss in a bowl with salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes. - Set Up Breading Stations:
In one bowl, whisk egg and buttermilk.
In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
Place breadcrumbs in a third bowl. - Coat the Nuggets:
Dip each fish piece in flour, then into the egg mix, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Press to adhere. - Cook:
- Pan-Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry nuggets 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place nuggets on a baking rack, spray with oil, and bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Serve Hot:
Best with spicy mayo, chipotle aioli, or cooling yogurt dip.
Quick Info:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~30 minutes
- Servings: 4
