Ultimate Crispy Fish Sliders: Your Go-To Recipe for Flavorful Fried Fish Bites

Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavor and texture! These crispy fish sliders are truly a delight, offering a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy notes in every bite. Whether you’re planning a casual backyard barbecue, a fun game day gathering, or simply craving a delicious and easy weeknight meal, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit. The classic fried fish, with its golden-brown, crunchy exterior and tender, flaky interior, is elevated by a vibrant homemade coleslaw and a zesty chipotle mayonnaise. It’s a combination that’s not just delicious, but genuinely addictive, making it a firm family favorite for sure!

Sliders hold a special place in my culinary heart. There’s something inherently satisfying about these miniature sandwiches, allowing you to enjoy a variety of flavors without committing to a full-sized burger. In my younger days, I might have opted for two traditional burgers, but now, savoring a couple of these perfectly portioned sliders feels just right. And honestly, I could easily devour five of these amazing fish sliders! The incredible combination of the impeccably fried fish, the creamy yet crunchy coleslaw, and the smoky, spicy kick of the chipotle mayo creates a balanced perfection of salty, sweet, and spicy notes that dances on your palate. It’s a symphony of flavors that truly sets these apart from your average slider.

When it comes to frying fish, I have a little trick to keep the house smelling fresh: I utilize the extra burner on my outdoor grill. This simple step helps contain the delightful (but sometimes lingering) aroma of fried food outside. However, if an outdoor setup isn’t an option for you, or if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, these crispy fish can be cooked to perfection in an air fryer! Both methods yield fantastic results, offering that desirable crispy texture.

These are truly perfect for summer gatherings, especially if you have access to some fresh, high-quality fish. Forget the usual beef burgers for a moment and give these Crispy Fish Sliders a try. They offer a refreshing change of pace and are fantastic alongside other creative options like our Gorgonzola Grilled Chicken Burger. When prepared in the air fryer, they also become a surprisingly healthy meal option! It’s all about making smarter choices, like minimizing vegetable oil when we can, to enjoy our favorite foods guilt-free.

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Fish Sliders

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this crispy fish slider recipe. Here are just a few highlights:

• Irresistibly Crispy: The panko breading ensures a satisfying crunch with every bite, contrasting beautifully with the tender fish.
• Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of spiced fish, tangy coleslaw, and smoky chipotle mayo creates a dynamic flavor profile that’s hard to beat.
• Versatile & Customizable: Easily adapt the spices, choose your favorite white fish, or experiment with different slaws and sauces.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual weeknight dinners, summer parties, game day snacks, or potlucks.
• Healthier Cooking Options: While frying is classic, the air fryer offers a lighter alternative without sacrificing crispiness.
• Quick & Easy: With a prep time of just 30 minutes, these sliders come together faster than you might think.

Key Ingredients for Crispy Fish Sliders

Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the ingredients needed for these incredible crispy fish sliders. Remember, the full printable recipe is available further down the page!

For the Crispy Fish

• 1½ lbs wild-caught cod fillets or other white fish: Cod is an excellent choice for its mild flavor and flaky texture. Other great options include tilapia, haddock, pollock, or even mahi-mahi. Prioritize wild-caught for better flavor and sustainability where possible.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Panko is the secret to ultimate crispiness! Its larger, flakier texture absorbs less oil and creates a lighter, crunchier crust compared to traditional breadcrumbs.
• 1 tbsp paprika: Adds a warm, slightly sweet, and vibrant red color to the breading.
• 1½ tsp chili powder: Provides a mild, earthy heat and depth of flavor.
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper: For that extra kick! Adjust to your preferred spice level. You can omit it if you prefer no heat.
• 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the fish and enhancing all other flavors.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: A foundational flavor that complements the fish and spices.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: Forms the first layer for the breading, helping the egg and breadcrumbs adhere to the fish.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, creating a sticky surface for the panko.

For the Zesty Coleslaw

• 1 bag coleslaw mix (about 4 cups of shredded cabbage and other veggies): Using a pre-packaged mix saves time and effort, but feel free to finely shred your own cabbage and carrots.
• ½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the slaw dressing.
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Adds a crucial tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the mayo and fried fish.
• ½ lemon, juiced: Fresh lemon juice provides a zesty, fresh lift to the dressing.
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard: Offers a subtle pungency and emulsifies the dressing, adding another layer of flavor.
• 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley: Incorporates a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color.

For the Creamy Chipotle Mayo

• 1 chipotle in adobo pepper: This is the star of the mayo! It provides a smoky, moderately spicy, and complex flavor. You can use half if you prefer less heat or add a second one for more intensity.
• ⅔ cup mayonnaise: The creamy foundation for our spicy sauce.
• 1 clove garlic: Adds a sharp, aromatic bite that enhances the overall flavor.
• ½ lime, juiced: Fresh lime juice brightens the sauce and balances the smoky heat of the chipotle.

Substitutions and Essential Ingredient Notes

Flexibility is key in cooking, and this recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some notes and substitution ideas to make these sliders truly your own:

• Cod Fillets: As mentioned, any deboned white fish will work beautifully. Experiment with different types to find your favorite! If using frozen fillets, proper thawing and liquid removal are paramount for crispy results. Lay the thawed fish on a few layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Gently press down to absorb as much excess moisture as possible. Repeat this process until the towels no longer absorb significant liquid. This step prevents the fish from becoming mushy during cooking and ensures a perfectly crisp exterior.
• Chipotle Mayo: This spicy, smoky sauce is a highlight, but feel free to get creative! If chipotle isn’t your preferred flavor, consider a classic tartar sauce, a sriracha mayo for a different kind of heat, or even a simple lemon-dill aioli. Don’t hesitate to experiment and let us know what delicious combinations you discover!
• Coleslaw: While our homemade slaw recipe is incredibly easy and delicious, using a good quality premade coleslaw from your grocery store is a convenient shortcut. Alternatively, if you have a cherished family coleslaw recipe, this is the perfect opportunity to incorporate it. The key is to have a fresh, tangy, and crunchy element to complement the fried fish.
• Slider Buns: Brioche slider buns are highly recommended for their slightly sweet and buttery flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the fish. However, any soft slider bun or even small dinner rolls will work. Toasting the buns lightly adds another layer of texture.
• Vegetable Oil: For deep frying, oils with a high smoke point like canola, peanut, or vegetable oil are ideal. If you’re air frying, a light spray of olive oil or avocado oil is sufficient.

Crafting Your Crispy Fish Sliders: A Step-by-Step Guide

These crispy fish sliders are surprisingly simple to make, especially when you organize your prep work. I always recommend preparing the chipotle mayo and coleslaw ahead of time; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gets the messier parts out of the way.

Step 1: Prepare the Coleslaw and Chipotle Mayo

For the Coleslaw: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the bag of coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and other vegetables), mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh parsley. Stir everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary – you might want a pinch more salt or a splash more vinegar. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and the cabbage to slightly soften. This can be made several hours in advance or even the day before.

For the Chipotle Mayo: In a small food processor or blender, combine the chipotle in adobo pepper (you can add a bit of the adobo sauce too for more flavor), mayonnaise, peeled garlic clove, and fresh lime juice. Process until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If you don’t have a food processor, finely mince the chipotle pepper and garlic by hand, then stir them into the mayonnaise with the lime juice. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use. This also benefits from chilling, allowing the smoky flavors to deepen.

Step 2: Preparing and Breading the Fish

First, set up your breading station. You’ll need three shallow dishes or plates:

1. One with the all-purpose flour.
2. One with a beaten egg (or two if needed for more fish).
3. One with the panko breadcrumbs.

In a small bowl, combine all the dry seasonings: paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Mix them well. Now, divide this seasoning blend: add half to the flour and half to the panko breadcrumbs. Stir each to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. This step infuses flavor directly into the crispy coating.

Next, prepare your fish. If using large fillets, cut them into small, slider-appropriate squares, roughly 2-3 inches per side. If your fish was frozen, ensure it is fully thawed. Then, using paper towels or a clean kitchen-safe towel, firmly press down on the fish fillets to remove as much excess moisture as possible. This is a critical step to achieve maximum crispiness. Now, dredge each piece of fish:

1. First, dip it in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess.
2. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off.
3. Finally, press it firmly into the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the fish, coating all sides thoroughly to get maximum coverage and crunch.

Place the breaded fish pieces on a plate or baking sheet as you go.

Step 3: Cooking the Crispy Fish

Pan Frying Method:

In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or cast-iron skillet, add about 1 cup of vegetable oil (or enough to come about ½ inch up the sides of the pan). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350-375°F (175-190°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a tiny pinch of breadcrumbs into it; they should immediately sizzle and float. Carefully place a few pieces of breaded fish into the hot oil, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fish. Fry the fish for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it’s golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 145℉ (63°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer. Always be cautious when adding fish to hot oil, as the moisture in the fish can cause splattering. Work in batches as needed. Once cooked, transfer the fish to a wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain any excess oil and keep them crispy.

Air Fryer Method (Healthier Alternative):

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil or line it with parchment paper designed for air fryers. Place the breaded fish in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. You may need to cook in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the fish with cooking oil. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 145℉ (63°C). The air fryer yields a wonderfully crispy result with significantly less oil.

Step 4: Assembling Your Sliders

Once your crispy fish is ready, it’s time to assemble these masterpieces! Take your slider buns and lightly toast them if desired. Slather a generous amount of the creamy chipotle mayo on both the top and bottom halves of the buns. On the bottom bun, add a spoonful of your zesty coleslaw. Place a crispy fish fillet on top of the coleslaw. If you enjoy a little extra tang and crunch, add a couple of pickle slices. Crown it with the top bun, and your delicious crispy fish sliders are ready to serve immediately!

Expert Tips for the Best Crispy Fish Sliders

• Dry the Fish Thoroughly: This cannot be stressed enough! Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Blot your fish fillets with paper towels until they are as dry as possible before breading.
• Season Every Layer: By mixing spices into both the flour and panko, you ensure every part of the breading is flavorful, not just the fish itself.
• Press the Panko: Don’t just dip; gently but firmly press the panko breadcrumbs onto the fish. This creates a thick, even coating that fries up beautifully.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan/Air Fryer: Cook in batches to maintain the oil temperature (for frying) or allow proper air circulation (for air frying). This is crucial for crispiness.
• Use an Instant-Read Thermometer: For both safety and perfect doneness, ensure the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Rest on a Wire Rack: After cooking, place the fish on a wire rack to allow air circulation. This prevents the bottom from getting soggy as it cools.
• Make Sauces and Slaw Ahead: Preparing the coleslaw and chipotle mayo in advance saves time and allows their flavors to deepen, enhancing the overall taste of the sliders.

How to Reheat Crispy Fish to Maintain Crispness

Reheating fried fish can be tricky, as it often loses its crispiness and can become rubbery. However, with the right method, you can revive that delightful crunch:

Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175°C). Place the leftover crispy fish pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps with even heating. Warm in the oven for about 7-10 minutes, or until heated through and crisp again. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking and drying out the fish. The goal is to restore the crispy texture without sacrificing the tender flakiness of the fish inside.

Can I Make These in the Air Fryer? Absolutely!

Yes, the air fryer is an excellent tool for making crispy fish with less oil, offering a healthier and often less messy alternative to deep frying. To cook these crispy fish sliders in the air fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 400℉ (200°C). Place the breaded fish fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket (ensure they are not overlapping). You may need to cook in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the fish with cooking oil spray. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are beautifully golden brown, crisp, and cooked through to an internal temperature of 145℉ (63°C).

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These crispy fish sliders are hearty enough to be a meal on their own, especially if you have a couple! But they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Classic Fries: A natural accompaniment, whether traditional potato fries or sweet potato fries.
• Onion Rings: Another fried favorite that complements the sliders well.
• Corn on the Cob: A fresh and sweet addition, especially during summer.
• Simple Green Salad: To add a light, refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
• Extra Pickles: For those who love a briny crunch, a side of extra pickles is always a good idea.

Flavor Variations:

• Spicy Mango Salsa: Swap the coleslaw for a fresh, vibrant mango salsa for a tropical twist.
• Asian-Inspired: Use a blend of ginger and soy sauce in your fish marinade and serve with a quick Asian slaw and a sriracha-lime mayo.
• Cajun Spice: Amp up the chili powder and cayenne, and add some dried oregano and thyme to the breading for a Cajun kick.
• Garlic Herb: Infuse your panko with finely chopped fresh parsley, dill, and extra garlic powder for a milder, herbaceous flavor.

Make-Ahead & Storage Instructions

Planning ahead can make mealtime even easier. Here’s how to manage your crispy fish sliders:

• Coleslaw & Chipotle Mayo: Both of these components can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to truly meld.
• Breading the Fish: You can bread the fish a few hours before cooking. Place the breaded fish on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This helps the breading adhere better.
• Cooked Fish: Leftover cooked fish should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat using the oven method described above for best results.
• Freezing: While cooked fish can be frozen, it tends to lose its crispy texture upon thawing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from refrigeration.

We absolutely love hearing from you! Leave us a comment or review below to share your experience, and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @vindelgiudice or Tiktok @alwaysfromscratch for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. If you enjoyed these amazing crispy fish sliders, be sure to check out some of our other fantastic slider and burger recipes below!

If you love these sliders, check out some of our other burgers!

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My Big Fat Greek Chicken Burger

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