Jack in the Box Fish Sandwich Recipe

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If you’re a fan of that perfect blend of crispy breading, tender fish, and the tang of tartar sauce that you’ve savored in the drive-thru, you’re in for a treat. I’m thrilled to share with you a Jack in the Box Fish Sandwich recipe that captures the essence of Jack in the Box’s beloved fish sandwich, all with ingredients you can easily find at your local supermarket.

How to make Jack in the Box Fish Sandwich

The Jack in the Box Fish Sandwich is a seasonal menu item from Jack in the Box. It is usually offered around Lent (February–April) when many fast food chains promote fish-based options.

Ingredients:

For the Fish:

• 4 white fish fillets (Cod, Pollock, or Tilapia are great choices)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Oil for frying (Canola or Vegetable oil works well)

For the Tartar Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional:

• 4 hamburger buns, preferably bakery-style for that authentic touch
• Shredded lettuce

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tartar Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, pickle relish, lemon juice, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to use to let the flavors meld.
2. Prepare the Fish: Begin by setting up a breading station: Place flour seasoned with salt and pepper in the first shallow dish. Beat the eggs in a second shallow dish. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow dish.
3. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the coating adhere better.
4. Dredge each fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat well with the panko breadcrumbs.
5. In a large skillet, heat enough oil over medium-high heat to shallow fry the fish fillets. The oil is ready when a breadcrumb sizzles upon contact.
6. Carefully place the breaded fish in the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Toast the Buns: While the fish is cooking, split your buns and lightly toast them in a toaster oven or skillet over medium heat. Toasting the buns adds texture and keeps them from getting soggy.
8. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous amount of tartar sauce on both halves of each toasted bun.
9. Place a layer of shredded lettuce on the bottom halves.
10. Add the fried fish on top of the lettuce.
11. Top with the other half of the bun and press down lightly.

Tips for the Perfect Fish Sandwich:

• Choosing the Fish: Opt for fillets that are about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking and have a good crust-to-fish ratio.
• Achieving the Best Crisp: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the fish to avoid soggy breading. However, watch the heat to ensure it doesn’t burn.
• Serving: These sandwiches are best enjoyed immediately while the fish is crisp and warm.

What to serve with

Pairing the perfect side dishes with your homemade Jack in the Box Fish Sandwich can elevate your dining experience. The combination of flavors and textures complements the crispy fish and creamy tartar sauce.

Classic French Fries

Why It Works: It’s hard to beat the classic combination of a sandwich and fries. To mimic the fast-food experience, opt for a crispy, golden version. Depending on your preference, you can air fry, bake, or deep-fry your fries.

Variation Tip: For an extra flavor kick, experiment with seasoning mixes, such as Cajun or garlic parmesan.

Coleslaw

Why It Works: The creamy, crunchy texture of coleslaw serves as the perfect counterbalance to the tender fish and soft bun.

Preparation Tip: For a quick homemade coleslaw, mix shredded cabbage and carrots with a dressing of mayonnaise, vinegar, a pinch of sugar, salt, and pepper. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Sweet Potato Fries

Why It Works: Sweet potato fries offer a delightful sweet and savory contrast to the Jack in the Box Fish Sandwich. Their rich flavor and additional nutrition make them a popular choice.

Serving Suggestion: Pair with a small dish of honey mustard or aioli for dipping.

Onion Rings

Why It Works: The crispy, golden breading of onion rings and their savory sweetness pair excellently with the fish sandwich, adding another layer of texture.

Cooking Tip: For extra crunchy onion rings, double dip in batter and breadcrumbs before frying.

Garden Salad

Why It Works: A fresh garden salad with a simple vinaigrette can lighten the meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the deep-fried elements.

Ingredient Suggestions: For color and crunch, use a mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions.

Pickles

Why It Works: The sharp tang and crunch of pickles cut through the richness of the fish and tartar sauce, refreshing your palate.

Serving Suggestion: Offer a variety of pickle slices or spears on the side for added flavor and texture.

Soup

Why It Works: A light soup, such as a classic tomato or a seafood chowder, can add warmth and variety to your meal.

Preparation Note: Choose a soup that complements, rather than overwhelms, the main flavors of the fish sandwich.

Ingredients Substitutes

The Jack in the Box Fish Sandwich, popular for its crispy fish fillet, tangy tartar sauce, and soft bun, can be made at home with several ingredient substitutes to fit dietary preferences and health considerations or simply to utilize available pantry items.

1. The Fish Fillet

Original Ingredient: Typically, the fish used is a breaded white fish like Alaskan pollock.

Substitutes:

• For a healthier option: Use a non-breaded fish fillet like tilapia or cod, and bake or grill it instead of frying.
• For a gluten-free version, Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal for the coating.
• Vegetarian/Vegan alternative: Substitute with a breaded tofu fillet or use a specialized vegan fish substitute available in markets.

2. The Bread

Original Ingredient: A standard hamburger bun is used.

Substitutes:

• Whole wheat bun: For a fiber-rich alternative.
• Gluten-free bun: There are many brands available that offer gluten-free hamburger buns.
• Lettuce wrap: For a low-carb version, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the fish fillet.

3. Tartar Sauce

Original Ingredient: Tartar sauce usually contains mayonnaise, relish, lemon juice, and seasonings.

Substitutes:

• Low-fat mayonnaise or yogurt: Use these in place of regular mayonnaise for a lighter version.
• Vegan mayonnaise: Use a plant-based mayonnaise to make vegan tartar sauce.
• Additional flavorings: Add capers or fresh herbs like dill to enhance the flavor without additional salt or sugar.

4. Cheese (if applicable)

Original Ingredient: American cheese is sometimes an option.

Substitutes:

• Cheddar, Swiss, or Pepper Jack: These can be used for stronger flavors.
• Dairy-free cheese: There are many vegan cheese slices available that melt well for those avoiding dairy.

5. Additional Toppings

Original Ingredients: Lettuce and tomatoes are common toppings.

Substitutes:

• Spinach or arugula: Use these for a peppery or more robust green profile.
• Cucumber slices or avocado: These can add fresh and creamy textures respectively.

Final Thoughts

With these steps, you can create a Jack in the Box Fish Sandwich that is so delicious that it might just become your new go-to recipe. 

More Sandwich Recipes:

• Jack in the Box Cluck Sandwich Recipe
• Jack In The Box Chicken Sandwich Recipe
• Copycat Burger King Chicken Sandwich Recipe
• Copycat Burger King Mushroom Swiss Melt Recipe