Crispy Fish Sliders: Your Ultimate Guide to Irresistible Fried Fish Sandwiches with Zesty Coleslaw and Chipotle Mayo

Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary journey with these absolutely delightful crispy fish sliders! This classic fried fish recipe is a true family favorite, delivering a perfect crunch and juicy tenderness that will have everyone reaching for more. Forget your average burger; these sliders offer a refreshing and flavorful alternative that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to vibrant summer gatherings.

There’s something uniquely satisfying about sliders. They offer the perfect bite-sized portion, allowing you to enjoy multiple flavor combinations without feeling overly full. While I used to enjoy larger “burgers,” these days, two (or even five!) of these delicious crispy fish sliders hit just the right spot. Each slider is a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures: the satisfying crispness of the fish, the refreshing tang of the homemade coleslaw, and the smoky, spicy kick from the chipotle mayo. This balance of salty, sweet, and spicy creates a truly addictive experience that you’ll want to recreate again and again.

One of the best tips for frying fish, if you want to keep the delightful aroma of fried food from lingering in your kitchen, is to utilize an outdoor grill with a side burner. This allows you to achieve that perfect golden crisp without any indoor fuss. However, for those without an outdoor setup or looking for a healthier, less messy option, these crispy fish sliders can also be perfectly cooked in an air fryer, offering a lighter take on a classic indulgence.

These fish sliders are particularly fantastic during the warmer months, especially when you can source fresh, high-quality white fish. They make for an exciting and delicious departure from traditional beef burgers. Consider serving them as an appetizer for your next BBQ, or as the main event for a casual lunch or dinner. When prepared in the air fryer, they also become a surprisingly healthy meal option, allowing you to enjoy all the flavor with less guilt. Just remember to choose healthier oil options when frying, or opt for the air fryer method to truly minimize extra calories.

Essential Ingredients for Crafting Your Crispy Fish Sliders

Creating truly outstanding crispy fish sliders starts with selecting the right ingredients. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need, along with tips for choosing the best quality products for the most flavorful results. A printable version of the complete recipe can be found further down!

For the Perfectly Crispy Fish

• 1½ lbs wild-caught cod fillets or other white fish: Cod is a fantastic choice for its mild flavor and flaky texture, but feel free to experiment with other firm white fish like tilapia, haddock, or pollock. Wild-caught options often offer a better flavor and texture.
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs: Panko bread crumbs are crucial for achieving that superior crispness. Their flaky, airy texture absorbs less oil and fries up much crispier than traditional bread crumbs.
• 1 tbsp paprika: Adds a beautiful reddish hue and a mild, sweet peppery flavor to the breading, enhancing the overall profile of the fish.
• 1½ tsp chili powder: Contributes a touch of warmth and savory depth, complementing the fish without overpowering it.
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper: For those who enjoy a little heat, cayenne pepper provides a noticeable spicy kick. Adjust to your preference or omit for a milder flavor.
• 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the fish and balancing all the other flavors in the breading.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the breading with a savory, aromatic garlic flavor that pairs wonderfully with fish.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: Forms the first layer of the breading, helping the egg adhere to the fish and creating a solid base for the breadcrumbs.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, ensuring the flour and breadcrumbs stick firmly to the fish fillets, leading to an even, crispy coating.
• Slider buns: Small, soft slider buns are ideal for these miniature sandwiches. Brioche buns add a touch of sweetness and richness.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Or other high smoke point oil like canola or sunflower oil.
• Optional: Pickle slices: For an extra tangy crunch!

For the Refreshing Homemade Coleslaw

• 1 bag coleslaw mix (about 4 cups of cabbage and other veggies): A pre-shredded mix makes this coleslaw incredibly quick and easy. Look for mixes that include carrots and other colorful additions.
• ½ cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the coleslaw dressing.
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Adds a crucial tangy element that cuts through the richness of the mayo and fried fish.
• ½ lemon, juiced: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors of the coleslaw, adding a zesty kick.
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle depth and a slight peppery note to the dressing.
• 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley: Adds freshness, color, and a herbaceous aroma.

For the Zesty Chipotle Mayo

• 1 chipotle in adobo pepper: This is the star of the show for the mayo, providing a smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor. You’ll use the pepper itself, and a little of the adobo sauce for maximum flavor.
• ⅔ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for this flavorful sauce.
• 1 clove garlic: Fresh garlic adds a pungent, aromatic kick that complements the chipotle.
• ½ lime, juiced: Fresh lime juice adds essential brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the mayo and the heat of the chipotle.

Smart Substitutions and Ingredient Notes for Your Sliders

Flexibility is key in cooking, and these crispy fish sliders are incredibly adaptable. Here are some notes and substitution ideas to help you customize the recipe to your liking or what you have on hand.

Selecting Your Fish: Cod Filets and Beyond

As mentioned, cod is an excellent choice for its mild flavor and firm, flaky texture. However, don’t hesitate to use any other firm, white-fleshed fish you prefer, such as tilapia, haddock, pollock, or even catfish. The most critical aspect is ensuring your fish is deboned. Bones can be a real nuisance and a safety hazard in a slider. If you’re using frozen fillets, proper thawing and preparation are paramount. Place the frozen fish in the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Once thawed, it’s really important to press out as much liquid as possible. Gently lay the fish on a few layers of paper towels or a clean kitchen-safe towel, then place more towels on top and press firmly. This step prevents the fish from becoming mushy when cooked and helps achieve that desirable crispy exterior. Excess water can also cause oil to splatter aggressively during frying, so removing it ensures a safer cooking process.

Customizing Your Chipotle Mayo

The chipotle mayo adds a fantastic smoky and spicy element, but if chipotle isn’t your preference, or you’re looking for other flavors, feel free to substitute it with your favorite sauce! Classic tartar sauce is always a winner with fried fish. A simple sriracha mayo can provide a different kind of heat, or even a basic aioli with fresh herbs would be delicious. Don’t be afraid to experiment! We’d love to hear what unique sauces worked best for you in the comments section!

Effortless Coleslaw Variations

Our coleslaw recipe is designed for ease and flavor, making it my go-to. However, if you’re short on time, a good quality premade coleslaw from your local deli or grocery store can be a convenient substitute. Alternatively, if you have a favorite homemade slaw recipe, feel free to use it! You can also customize the existing recipe by adding different vegetables like bell peppers, red onion, or even a handful of chopped apples for a touch of sweetness. For a creamier slaw, add a touch more mayonnaise; for a tangier version, increase the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Crispy Fish Sliders

These fish sliders are surprisingly easy to prepare, making them accessible even for novice cooks. For best results and to streamline your cooking process, I always recommend preparing the chipotle mayo and coleslaw ahead of time. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator while you focus on the fish.

Prepping the Coleslaw and Chipotle Mayo

1. For the Coleslaw: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the bag of coleslaw mix with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and fresh chopped parsley. Stir everything thoroughly until the vegetables are well coated. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary – you might want a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen and the cabbage to soften slightly.
2. For the Chipotle Mayo: In a small food processor or a blender, combine the chipotle in adobo pepper (you can add a tiny bit of the adobo sauce for extra flavor and color), mayonnaise, a peeled clove of garlic, and fresh lime juice. Process until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. If you prefer a milder sauce, start with half a chipotle pepper and add more to taste. Cover and refrigerate alongside the coleslaw.

Preparing and Breading the Fish for Maximum Crispiness

1. Set Up Your Breading Stations: Prepare two separate shallow plates or dishes for your breading. In the first plate, pour the ½ cup of flour. In the second plate, add the 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs.
2. Season the Breading: In a small bowl, combine all of your dry seasonings: paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and garlic powder. Mix them well. Divide this seasoning mixture in half; add one half to the flour and the other half to the panko breadcrumbs. Stir each plate to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. This ensures flavor in every layer.
3. Prepare the Fish: If you’re using large fillets, prepare the fish by cutting them into small, manageable squares or rectangles that will fit neatly onto your slider buns. Aim for pieces roughly 2-3 inches in length. If using frozen fish, ensure it is completely thawed and has been pressed thoroughly with paper towels to remove as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy crust and preventing the fish from steaming instead of frying.
4. The Breading Process: Create an assembly line for breading: fish, then flour, then a whisked egg (in a separate shallow bowl), then the seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
   • First, dredge each piece of fish in the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s completely coated. Shake off any excess flour.
   • Next, dip the flour-coated fish into the whisked egg, letting any excess egg drip off.
   • Finally, generously coat the fish in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the fish with your hands to ensure maximum coverage and adhesion. The more breadcrumbs, the crispier the result! Place the breaded fish on a clean plate or baking sheet as you go.

Frying the Fish to Golden Perfection

1. Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, add about 1 cup of vegetable oil (or enough to create about a 1-inch depth for shallow frying). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a tiny pinch of breadcrumbs into it; if they sizzle immediately, the oil is ready.
2. Fry the Fish: Carefully place the breaded fish pieces into the hot oil, being cautious as fish contains water, which can cause splattering. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry the fish in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will drop the oil temperature, leading to soggy rather than crispy fish. Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C). I highly recommend using an instant-read thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
3. Drain the Fish: Once cooked, carefully remove the fish from the oil using a slotted spoon or tongs and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps maintain its crispiness.

Assembling Your Delicious Crispy Fish Sliders

1. Prepare the Buns: Lightly toast your slider buns if desired for extra texture.
2. Assemble: Slather the bottom half of each slider bun with a generous amount of your homemade chipotle mayo. Add a spoonful of the refreshing coleslaw on top of the mayo. Place one crispy fried fish fillet onto the coleslaw.
3. Garnish and Serve: Top with your favorite pickle slices if you like an extra tangy crunch, then place the top half of the bun. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Reheating Crispy Fish

Leftover fried fish can sometimes lose its crispness, but with the right reheating method, you can bring it back to its former glory. To reheat crispy fish and maintain its texture, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the fish pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm in the oven for about 7-10 minutes, or until heated through. This method gently reheats the fish while re-crisping the breading, preventing it from becoming soggy or totally drying out. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the fish soft and chewy.

Can I Make These Crispy Fish Sliders in an Air Fryer?

Absolutely! The air fryer is an excellent tool for making these fish sliders, offering a healthier option with less oil and less mess, all while still achieving fantastic crispiness. To cook them in the air fryer: preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the breaded fish fillets with cooking spray (this helps with browning and crispiness). Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. The air fryer circulates hot air, mimicking the crisping effect of deep frying, but with minimal oil.

We hope you love these crispy fish sliders as much as we do! Your feedback means the world to us. Please leave us a comment or review below and share your creations. Follow us on Instagram @vindelgiudice or Tiktok @alwaysfromscratch for more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration. If these sliders hit the spot, be sure to check out some of our other fantastic slider and burger recipes below!

More Delicious Slider and Burger Recipes to Try

If you’re a fan of these crispy fish sliders, you’ll definitely want to explore our other unique and flavorful burger creations:

• Goat Cheese and Fig Jam Sliders: A sophisticated and sweet-savory combination that’s perfect for entertaining.
• My Big Fat Greek Chicken Burger: Bursting with Mediterranean flavors, a healthy and delicious twist on a classic.
• Gorgonzola Grilled Chicken Burger: For cheese lovers, this combines tangy gorgonzola with juicy grilled chicken for a gourmet experience.

📖 Recipe: Crispy Fish Sliders