The panko coating in this Oven Baked Catfish Nuggets recipe is light, resulting in nuggets that are delicately crisp and incredibly tender, practically melting in your mouth!
Cut the catfish into bite-size pieces. About 1 to 1 ½-inch squares.
In a bowl or a Zip-loc bag, mix together the panko, bread crumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and canola oil. Mix well.
Drizzle the remaining canola oil onto a baking sheet.
Dip the catfish bites into the panko mixture, or place a few pieces at a time in the Zip-loc bag and shake. (shake and bake style!)
Place the catfish nuggets on the baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure to not overcrowd the pan.
Spray the tops lightly with the non-stick spray.
Place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 10 minutes. Turn the catfish nuggets over and continue to bake for another 2 - 5 minutes.
The nuggets are done when they are fork-tender.
Notes
If you prefer a bit of spice, trying using Cajun / Creole seasoning, or a few dashes of cayenne pepper. Lemon pepper seasoning also works well.To make tartar sauce...Mix about ⅓ cup mayonnaise with 1 - 2 teaspoons of dill relish and a splash of lemon juice. Mix.